Teen mental health

[PJEM]

Hi. My nearly 18 year old has struggled hugely during lockdown and 3 weeks ago took an overdose. Fortunately it was not a huge dose and I awoke to find her message that she had done so and we went to A and E etc. We are currently trying to get some counselling arranged but I am finding it so hard, especially now she can go out and see a friend. I am paranoid that I don't know where she is or what she's doing especially if her moods are low. Me talking to her, whilst really open from her initially, has now become really difficult and I am worrying the whole time. Help!

Hi, I'm so sorry, that is so tough for you and her. If you are still looking for a counselling service for her, themix.org.uk offer free phone counselling sessions (you can choose a block of 8 or 4 weeks). Please have a look at youngminds.org.uk for yourself. They have a phone line for parents who are worried about their dc's mental health and actions, and other useful advice on the website. Feel free to come back here and talk too all the best x

I have a 13 year old, who a year ago did the same thing. I am going to speak to youngminds and thank you for this thread because she herself does not want counselling but at the same time feels hopeless. She's now crying every morning before school because she can't get out of bed.

Pretty sure that the schools are not equipped to help us properly even though help needs to span home, school and professional care.

No advice op, just wanted to send lots of strength and support through the ether. The pandemic has been so shit for teens