My 18 year old daughter has just finished her HSC and is starting Uni next month.  Over the last 5-6 years if not longer she has been struggling with anxiety, PTSD and depression  and is very prone to panic attacks, particularly in social situations.   The last couple of years have also seen suicidal thoughts and plans, and a couple of occasions of self harm.  She’s had counselling/CBT which seemed to help in the short term but has since relapsed, even though she is currently on anti depressant medication.   We have always been close and have good communication, (plus I do have some skills and knowledge about her condition to draw from) which has led me to being in the role almost as first responder whenever anything falls apart for her.  Her dad feels it is attention seeking behaviour rather than a mental health issue.   Problem for me is that the level of focus I need to maintain when dealing with her in a crisis exhausts me physically and mentally - feels like I’ve been hit by a truck.  I don’t know if my ready access is ‘enabling’ but my gut feel is that it’s needed. I’m single and self employed, my work and sleep are both suffering for this and I’m at the end of my rope almost.... We are meeting a new psychologist next week for her, but there doesn’t seem to be a lot of support or respite for parents and carers where I live.    Any suggestions or similar experiences to share? ... View more