I'm searching for reassurance really - 14yr old diagnosed with anxiety, depression and awaiting ASD assessment.
Tried several antidepressants, currently in first 6 weeks of higher dose of a newish one.
Been off school with extremely low mood, intrusive thoughts, wanting to die - researching suicide methods and increased self harm. Sees a counsellor who helps and is very worried about DC.
I think I've seen an improvement in last few days although DC denies they feel better.
I currently have another child over that I sometimes mind (much younger) and my DC is being completely 'happy' and having fun.
There's no doubt that DC has had a terrible time but it looks from the outside that they are fine?
What I suppose I'm asking is do other children do this - are they just putting their ASD mask on or are they not quite as bad as we think?
This is so hard and I don't disbelieve my DC - I just know that if anybody else saw them they'd assume they are absolutely fine.
I dunno - it's been such a stressful time and I'm losing my sense of normality a bit.
Any advice would be appreciated.