Teenage daughter seems withdrawn and I am unsure how to help

[CynthiaL]

Past two months our daughter is withdrawn and I don't know how to get her to talk. Its not the usual moodiness I feel something is wrong. We typically have a pretty open relationship. I have tried having an afternoon with just her but she was very melancholia. I don't know what else to try to help her without pushing too hard.

Oh that's really tough for you. Has anything happened in terms of maybe her staying at a friend's one night, or coming home from school upset? Does she get more withdrawn when she's having her period?

Its hard to pinpoint exact time when it started but noticed its just lasting longer and she seems miserable.

Not that I am aware of but I dont know. I suppose stays in room more during that time.

In a similar situation with DC17 how old is yours? Is she still seeing friends etc?

Worth speaking to her school?

How old is she?
Important exams coming up or having to pick choices for the next stage?
New school/college on the horizon?
Friendship issues?
Boyfriend/girlfriend trouble?

Dies she have hobbies or any interests outside school?
Any family issues/changes?

I have always found starting chats in the car work better with my DCs - sitting side by side, rather than face on helps I think

She is 15. No she was not going out to friends either which is unusual.

So hard. Not sure what you can do other than what you are doing. Can you talk to school in confidence?

going to have along time with her this evening so will try and talk. I could try the school as well if I dont get anywhere.

Try on neutral ground or in the car. The car is always an easy one as you’re side by side.