Awaiting autism assessment for both son's

Rubywoo18

I've been really fed up ciz my little one has been awaiting a diagnostic assessment now for nearly 2 years now. I feel really let down by CAMHs who they are also under due to social and generalised anxiety and emotional dysregulation. It's been a really tough old ride. Does anyone else feel their precious children have been let down by mental health teams, schools etc. Please let me know.

Thank you guys .

Morgan_Scope

Have they been able to give you any idea how much longer the waiting list is @Rubywoo18?

I know lots of people have expressed feeling let down by the mental health or assessment services and waiting lists are ridiculously long.

Do you have any support with your children and are CAMHS seeing your children regularly?

Rubywoo18

Paediatricians said he'd be seen in November 24 but I haven't heard back from them. The CAMHs Psychotherapist just seemed to make things worse; my son became very destructive- I decided not to take him back. We are awaiting the family Help service but once again it will take a year.

B

Mary_Scope

Hi @Rubywoo18

It's completely understandable that you're feeling frustrated and let down. Two years is a really long time to wait to be assessed, especially when your child is already struggling with anxiety and emotional dysregulation.

You are absolutely not alone in how you feel. Lots of parents have similar experiences when they're trying to access mental health support for their children.

It may be helpful to make a formal complaint to CAMHS or the relevant NHS Trust as sometimes this can help to get things going.

PALS can also be good to contact as they can offer advice and support on moving in the NHS system and can help you to raise your concerns.

• I hope this was helpful, please let us know if you have anymore questions or would like more support.

Rubywoo18

Hi Mary_scope, thank you so much for your invaluable advice, it's comforting to know me and the boys are not alone and we're understood by many who are also trying navigate this system.