Mental health team at school refusing to see my child

[lollipoprainbow]

So fed up today, The single point point of access team referred my daughter to the mental health team at her school and the team have rejected seeing her because of her ASD. My daughter is struggling on a daily basis with being very low, terrible self esteem etc. Why can’t we get help ?!

That's rubbish. I am a therapist and I work with children. They have ASD, ADHD, bipolar etc alongside low mood and or anxiety or whatever. A child in need is just that.

Half my clients have ASD sometimes.

OP you absolutely have to kick up a fuss because the system is a mess and the only way families can get their children support is to kick up a fuss.

@LolaSmiles don't worry I intend to despite certain people on here telling me not to bother.

As ASC in itself is not a mental health condition, treatments for mental illness such as depression or anxiety don’t always help, and can be harmful.
It’s really important to ensure with ASC that the environmental needs are being met, such as smaller classes, breakout space, acceptance of sensory issues and overwhelm, cos if they’re not then that can be a cause of stress and low mood, rather than being caused by mental illness.

have the school done a really good assessment of needs, and made the relevant adaptations?

Have you applied for an EHCP?

Excellent advice by @Twoshoesnewshoes

While ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition, and not a mental illness, many people with ASD, particularly women and girls, also experience considerable anxiety and depression, which of course ARE mental illnesses. Masking is more common in girls and their desire to 'fit in' often seems to be related to their mental health difficulties. The fact that the school have turned her down suggests their understanding of ASD is not sufficient to be of much help to your daughter.

Look out for what's happening locally for young people with ASD. CAMHS should help, so speak to your GP regarding a referral, but I know it's difficult to get seen. Knowledge and understanding of ASD and mental health problems is key. If you have to go private be sure that the person you pay is sufficiently knowledgeable of ASD and skilled. Also look for carer support groups for your self -again for parents of children with ASD. It's amazing what you can pick up from other parents. And look for any training on ASD and mental health for yourself so you understand it all as much as you possibly can.