My oldest (9F) has been to the nurses office 12 times this school year. She frequently wakes up and tells me that she is sick, but the symptoms aren't recordable (fever, vomiting, lethargy). It's clear that she is faking it because she acts perfectly fine until she remembers that she is supposed to be sick, just to be active and jovial 5 minutes later. Rinse and repeat.
I have a doctor's appointment scheduled for her to check for any underlying issues. She was/is getting bullied at school. However, since I brought it up to the teachers and principal (she wouldn't do it herself), the staff had been keeping a hawk eye on how her and how her peers interact. The perpetrating students are being held accountable for their actions, as well.
She sees the school counselor, has a weekly therapist, and takes karate classes 2 times a week (Idk why she refuses to defend herself). She acts out at home, and a majority of the time, it's age appropriate. However, she has bouts of times when she gets aggressive. My youngest had reported that she choked him twice this last week. So, I ended up buying indoor security cameras to put an end to the "he said she said." and see what is actually happening.
If you have any theories on possible underlying mental/emotional issues. Tips on how to bring the subject up without prying or making her feel the need to get defensive. Please share!!