Adolescent Mental health support. Is this typical?

[MayJuneJuly]

This week I discovered DD 13 has been self harming.

She has always suffered with low confidence and self esteem but I thought we were starting to turn a corner as she seemed much more comfortable within herself. Most people would never guess it of her because she's always happy and rarely withdrawn etc. She has become very skilled at putting on a front and blending in but is usually very open with me in the safety of the house.

It's been a huge shock and obviously sent me into a bit of a panic so I made an appointment with the GP.

I have basically just been told that there is nothing to be done because this has only happened twice and DD said it definitely wasn't a suicide attempt. The GP wouldn't even refer us to counselling or further help. She said that the service was very busy and a self harming teenage girl is just not a priority.

Apparently our best hope of getting any meaningful help is to approach her school nurse (appointment was already booked for monday)

I understand that the system is overwhelmed but I am feeling so let down by the NHS.

Is this typical? That they won't even see her because she's not suffering enough?

What else can I do for her?

[SilverStars]

sadly self harming is common and I imagine they have their criteria.

[MayJuneJuly]

I'm sure they are hugely underfunded and understaffed.

Is self harming that common then?

I just think that is would be better to meet this head on and give her ways of dealing with it now rather then letting it escalate into something more serious that may require more help in the longterm

[SilverStars]

However the school nurse is a great idea, and they can always hel you access services.

[MayJuneJuly]

Yes I am hoping that will be more productive.

Just worried about what to do if it isn't? I just want to make it better for her but have no idea where to start.