"Our lives have been transformed"

Our journey with CAMHS began when my son was 8. Finally, when he turned 12 we got a diagnosis that he was Autistic, this meant he was now under the care of the disability services but there still appeared to be very little support that we could access and again we felt on our own,  struggling to deal with the anger and anxiety that was so severely impacting our son and the effect it was having on the rest of our family. We were in crisis. 

In absolute despair, and at a complete loss as to how we could support our deeply unhappy son, I pleaded with CAMHS to see us again. It was at this point I met Joanne.

Joanne could have easily brushed us aside and said we did not fall into the CAMHS remit but because of her understanding, wisdom, professionalism and astounding compassion she actually found the root cause of what was impacting so much on our sons life and he was diagnosed with ADD. With her support and guidance he is in a much better place in his life than he has ever been. He is thriving at school, enjoys outside activities, has developed strong and happy relationships with his brother and sister and even occasionally talks to me other than looking for food or money!! When medication was discussed, it was done thoroughly, addressing any concerns or fears we had and he has been carefully monitored throughout. 

Our lives have transformed from a house full of anxiety and stress to what feels like "normal". He feels that he can focus and concentrate now and he has grown into a kind, self assured, easy going young man.

I am so grateful to CAMHS and to everyone there who has worked with myself and my son.

For the compassion they showed to both of us, for the difference they have made to my sons life. I dread to think what could have happened to us if we did not have their support and intervention. 

Thank you to the entire team.