My 14 year old son was diagnosed last year with depression. His psychologist recommended he start on anti depressants. Our GP was happy to prescribe them as she felt that it was necessary as well, however she wanted him to see a child psychiatrist as well to ensure we were on the right track. We ended up seeing someone from RCH child and adolescent department. He conducted a full cognitive and psychological assessment and recommended that he stay on the anti depressants. He still has regular contact with his GP and the school social worker and the psychologist when we can get in. All this is working but he still has very down days but not like before. He is not self harming and is more confident to talk to his support people. The anti depressants have definitely helped and I believe are necessary so that he is in a position to actively engage with the support team, before he was just closed up and not open to receiving help. Good luck with your daughter, it's a very tricky time for everyone enfolded.
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