Self harming teen

[Anjelica27]

Woken at 3 by teenage son, had cut himself - hands and legs. Is seeing CAMHS following suicide attempt 4 months ago, next appointment after christmas. Says is not suicidal now. Panic stricken. How do I help him and keep him safe.

Wrote something somewhere but obviously not here. Not doing very well. At a and e last night. Saw psychiatrist today and refusing meds now we home. Another appointment tomorrow morning. Going to be a long night. Every time I go out of the room he is cutting himself. Very controlled. If left by himself will be fine. How do I do that.

Have they said they will admit him to a unit or will consider it ? He will need to tell them he isnt safe and agree he needs help though as admission will be voluntary , unless they section him. Given what you describe, this seems the safest option at present as you cannot stay awake all night. tell the psychiatrist he is not taking meds (although not sure what medication would help him short term) and that you cannot watch him 24/7. If you go back to hospital, perhaps say you cant take him home. My DD stayed on the childrens ward a few days until a bed was found. In the meantime, can his brother come round and help you out....He is very unwell, and any support and treatment will take a while to kick in, so please look after yourself and fight to get him help when resources are scarce. Its very hard if they go into hospital and sometimes things get worse before they get better, but he would be with other young people and sometimes that in itself can help. So sorry you are both going through this.