LETTER FROM WEXFORD TEENAGER TO THE MINISTER FOR HEALTH:

Dear Minister Harris,

I am fourteen years old and from Wexford. I am writing to you to tell you my experience of seeking help for my mental health. In January 2016 I asked for help as I was experiencing suicidal thoughts and struggling to come to terms with very tragic bereavements in family. I was referred to psychology services in the HSE. They met with my Mam and then me in June 2016. They said they could help me, but I am on the waiting list. I was informed that I would be waiting between 1-2 years. In December ‘16/ January ‘17, I had thoughts of suicide again and of being unable to cope. I was very confused and emotional. On Wednesday the 18th of January ’17, my doctor put me into A&E to see a mental health group. I saw a normal doctor and he told me that I had to stay in one night so I would be seen quicker. On the Thursday morning, I was told I was going to be seen but as the day went on, we heard no more. When the doctor was doing his rounds, my mam asked the nurse what time were CAMHS coming at and the nurse said they aren’t coming anymore. After that I was made stay in hospital until Monday the 24th. I was scared and very anxious and did not understand why I had to stay in hospital. I just needed someone to talk to and help me deal with my low mood and emotions. I was finally seen on Monday by CAMHS and got discharged with no appointment for help still. They said I needed a psychologist and they don’t have one on their team and they would have to contact the other service. I would like to know why there is no help for children when they ask for it? What can you do or what can be done to stop other children going through this?