My daughter has mental health woes but I can’t get counselling she needs
DEAR DEIDRE: MY daughter is struggling with her mental health but she isn’t entitled to any counselling.
I’m her 49-year-old dad. She is 16, has ADHD and is struggling with low moods.
I’ve tried to get her referred for counselling but in vain.
Her GP told me she wasn’t entitled to any face-to-face counselling until she was 17.
I fear we don’t have much longer until her mental health reaches a dangerous point.
Can you please help?
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MORE FROM DEAR DEIDRE
DEIDRE SAYS: I’m so sorry to hear that your daughter is struggling.
This must be worrying.
I would recommend going back to the surgery and seeing a different GP if possible.
You must emphasise that she must be referred to the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service.
You or your daughter could also complete a self-referral. There is more information on the YoungMinds website.
My support pack Young And Worried has more information.