Dd ,12 says she has been trying to kill herself

[Doryhunky]

She has also said she is thinking about jumping in front of a train. She saw the school counsellor once but didn’t go back and doesn’t want to talk to anyone. School ends tomorrow and I presume therapy waitlists are as long for Children as they are for adults. What help and how should i access it?

Well done for acting so swiftly and also sharing so the issue is raised for other parents.

I would also suggest letting your daughter's school know.

I hope you are ok as it is something that affects the whole family.

Well done dory

I hope you both get the support you need

Sending love to you, OP. I have been that suicidal child having those feelings. And I felt I couldn't tell anyone. It's a reflection on you that your daughter has opened up to you. You sound like an absolutely brilliant mum

So we were seen and as the cahms lady didn’t think she was actively planning anything she has been referred for a follow up in 7 days when she will
Be checked and probably put on a wait list. She minimised to the lady what she had said to me.

Thanks to everyone for the input as I was really at a loss.

How are things now? We went through the same about 3 weeks ago … still putting my alarm on every two hours all night to check my DD … we ended up waiting in A&E for 8 hours and getting a bed at 3.30 am … then follow up phones calls when CAMHS managed them (busy) then … nothing????
DD distraught yesterday as couldn't cope with Christmas and now in her room, very down and uncommunicative, but no longer in total crisis … for now.
Up and down every few days … take each good day/hour as it comes …
I would love to hear from families who have been through this and come out the other side …

I hope you and DD are having a lovely Christmas OP. Just popped on to share my experience with you. I took an overdose at 13. I had one counselling session while still in hospital and then a few family sessions afterwards. I can't say it made much difference to the family dynamics that I was desperately unhappy about.

I had art therapy but that wasn't really helpful in itself either. But one phrase this therapist said really stuck with me. If I'm not happy with something, change it.

I've had a very challenging life since then, with many tough situations that have left me feeling very low. I've never once thought about hurting myself again. I've never felt the need for anti depressants. I've always felt in control - if I don't like something, I need to change it.

I was homeless at 16, but still went to University. I was in an abusive relationship at 18, but left the same day I realised he had crossed the line. I met the man of my dreams but then struggled to conceive. 5 years and 2 rounds of IVF, we had our precious miracle, but having a child left my physically disabled. I still went back to work full time after 12 months and continued my career. I'm mentally strong and resilient.

If I'm not happy - it's up to me to change it.

I didn't have any formal CBT but that is the underlying message, it's practical and teaches you the skills of how to change your thinking about situations as well as solving problems in a practical way. The more practice she has at solving problems and overcoming difficulties, the more she will feel able to deal with them. I've been made redundant 5 times and now wouldn't bat an eyelid if when it happens again, just dust off my CV and use my exit package for an amazing holiday!!

Good luck OP and much love to your DD