Ethan: fidgeting with his sleeves M-Mom, I... I've been hiding something. I... I'm not... who you think I am.
Stranger
I nod I know
takes a deep breath It's true, Mom. I'm not...perfect. I have these...anxiety attacks. They come out of nowhere, and...
Stranger
I’m your dad
looks up, eyes filled with relief You...you know? pauses, taking another deep breath It's been so hard keeping this to myself, but...
Stranger
smiles what do you want to do first
leans forward, looking determined First, I want to learn more about myself.
Stranger
ok where do we start
stands up, pacing back and forth I want to start by researching anxiety disorders. I want to understand what's happening to me better.
Stranger
how can I help
stops pacing, looks directly at Stranger I need you to be there for me, Dad.
Stranger
yes
takes Stranger's hand, squeezing it tightly Thank you, Dad. I don't know how to express how grateful I am that you're here for me.
Stranger
hugs him tightly
pulls away from the hug, wiping away tears There's something else... I... I also have this... compulsive need for control.
Stranger
like
nervously fidgets with his hands It's...it's like...I can't stand chaos or unpredictability.
Stranger
just listens
takes a deep breath For example, whenever I'm feeling overwhelmed, I...I create lists and routines.
Stranger
like a routine for everyday
Yes, exactly! It helps me feel in control of my environment and my emotions. I've even created specific routines for different situations, like how I want my coffee made in the morning or the exact order of my textbooks.
Stranger
you mean like a ritual?
nods Yes, it's similar to a ritual. It provides me with a sense of security and stability.
Stranger
maybe it could help with the anxiety
looks up, eyes shining with hope You think so? Would you help me create some routines and rituals?
Stranger
of course
smiles, his voice filled with excitement Thank you, Dad. I can't wait to start creating these routines and rituals with you.
Stranger
sets up a routine for him
grabs a notebook and pen, ready to take notes Okay, Dad. Let's get started.
Stranger
after setting it up do you understand how to use it?
eagerly flips through the pages of the notebook Yes, Dad! I understand how to use the routines and rituals.
Stranger
ok good now lets get you started on your day
checks off the first item on the list Make sure all school supplies are packed and organized.
Stranger
helps him pack his bag
paces out of the house, checking off items on his list methodically Time to head to school.
Stranger
drives him to school
Ethan starts his first day at school following his new routines and rituals, feeling more in control and secure
Stranger
picks him up from school how was your day
excitedly jumps into the car Dad, it was amazing! The teachers really understand how I learn best. They tailored their lessons to fit my routines and rituals, and it made such a positive impact on my ability to focus and absorb the material!
Stranger
that's great to hear
takes out his planner and shows it to Stranger Look, Dad! The teachers even helped me create personalized schedules for each class.
Stranger
great job
opens his backpack and takes out several flashcards And guess what, Dad? The teachers also created customized flashcards for me, tailored to my learning style.
Stranger
wow you lucked out with the teachers then
smiles brightly Yeah, I did! The teachers really rose to the challenge and helped me feel welcome and supported in the classroom.
Stranger
you know you can ask your teachers anyting
nods eagerly I know, Dad. The teachers were so understanding when I explained my routines and rituals.