What to do when child won't accept help?

[elliejjtiny]

DS aged 12 took an overdose 2 weeks ago and nearly died. He insists he is fine now but I'm a nervous wreck.

Camhs assessed him and then discharged him. School have offered counselling, going to the well being hub if he feels overwhelmed, a "worry box", talking to one of the TA's. He has said no to everything. He deletes his sent and received emails as soon as he has read them so I can't monitor his email account.

I don't know what to do. I'm so scared he will do it again.

Can't or won't? Usually it is can't, although professionals often need reminding of this.

You should push CAMHS to provide more help. In the meantime have you removed/locked away anything that he could use to self harm? You can't eliminate the risk but you can reduce access to items.

Deleting emails would worry me about what he is accessing.

Do you have support for yourself? We have a support thread over here if you want to join us.

Thankyou. Everything is now locked away and out of reach. I don't know if it's can't or won't to be honest. He just says he doesn't need any support.

Doesn't need any help is often used as the easy answer. The answer that shuts down the conversation because that is emotionally easier than talking about their feelings. When asked how they are 'fine' or 'OK' do the same thing. DS may not even know what he is feeling, let alone be able to vocalise it. How is his emotional literacy and insight?

Did CAMHS give a reason for discharging him?
I would suggest phoning the Young Minds helpline. They are very helpful and if the person on the phone can't answer your question they arrange for a clinician to call you back.
Also look at the Papyrus website which is specifically about suicide and has lots of advice for parents.

I completely understand how you must be feeling right now.My daughter 11, took an overdose a week ago today. We had CAMHS appointment this morning but wouldn’t come on call so they’ve arranged for her to see them face to face next week. She won’t open up to me at all. I feel completely shut out and it’s the worst feeling in the world. I’ve hardly slept as I’m hyper aware of what she’s doing as I know she struggles a lot at night time.