anybody have experience with cahms?

[Baby2sky]

As some may know I have been worried about certain behaviours my daughter has been displaying for a while now. I have had a meeting with my hv who have said she needs referring to cahms.

Has anybody had any experience with this? How long the referrals take, what to expect, do I need to go prepared with anything? Thanks.

 

[Unicorn]

Hi Baby2sky, I have experience with CAMHS in a professional capacity. It may be different in different areas but they do tend to be a much needed and under-resourced service so I'm afraid you may be waiting to see someone for quite some time. Initially they will do an assessment so you just need to be prepared to discuss all your concerns with them, it may be worth jotting down your daughter's behaviors so you don't miss anything out. They will then discuss treatment with you but again I'm afraid to say that due to limited capacity their thresholds are very high, so I wouldn't want you to get your hopes up that they will provide you with support when that may not be the case. However, they should inform you of alternative services if they don't accept your daughter's referral. There should be a primary care mental health help line for your area, which you could ring to discuss anything. I really hope you get the support you are looking for, it must be worrying for you. Hope old is your daughter? Xx

 

[Baby2sky]

Thanks for replying and giving me a heads up hun! Shes almost 3 xxx

 

[fairyprincess]

Hi, I also have experience with CAMHS from a professional point of view. Usually their first visit will take place at home. As Unicorn said they will probably ask you lots of questions to ascertain what the problems are. Write all your concerns down so you don't forget anything or any questions you want to ask. Also, they might want to observe your daughter's behaviour. I don't know if this would be the case for you but I've experienced it when kids don't then display the behaviours in front of strangers and they appear good as gold lol. In this case if you can try and video any behaviours that would be helpful to them.

They will then assess the situation and try to put any support systems in place. This may be routines/behaviour plans etc. The can't do anything you don't agree to though.

Hope this helps and good luck x