I don't know how to deal with my DS depression

[Caz1841]

I'm just wondering whether anyone has any experience of teen mental health? My DS (19) has struggled with his mental health since the covid lockdown and over the past weekend made a third attempt in three years to take his own life. On the first occasion and due to his age, he was referred to CAHMS who lived up to their reputation of being useless. Last year, he was referred to adult MH team who never followed it up, although he did feel more positive around that time. He has now relapsed and following another trip to A&E on Sunday, he finally has an appointment with the hospital doctor tomorrow with a view to prescribing medication.

I'm really feeling overwhelmed and out of my depth by it all, so it would be reassuring to know how others have coped with this. I do have support around me but I think only parents who have experience of these heartbreaking situations can truly relate.

Bumping for you.
That sounds really hard.

DD struggles although there haven't been any serious attempts at taking her life so I don't want to compare my situation to yours.

All I will say is that the sooner he is seen and medicated, the sooner you can start to actually progress with a path forward. Fight tooth and nail to get him properly assessed and take it from there.

You sound caring and compassionate so that's a big BIG win for him. Good luck OP.

Can you afford private therapy for him? Some areas have charities that do free therapy for those on low income. Try asking around in your area, churches or CAB might be able to signpost you. Or research if there’s some support groups for him?