14 yrs old anxiety and depression

[monastero2]

My 14 year old daughter has low self-esteem largely due to weight. She has just started talking about it and is now doing weight watchers and excited about it. She has anxiety and is really struggling to go to school. I think she is also suffering from depression. She also had a lot going on past 2 weeks with her friends bullying her by not speaking to her and ignoring her over a fight. I started looking for a person for her to see and need guidance as to whether to see a mental health counselor or do I look for psychologist??? Input would be great. thanks in advance

[gerg]

You option may be limited by appointment availability. I would just want to get an evaluation and get some opinions about how to proceed. I have always started with my family doctor and it has worked well for me.

[Gardengirl18]

If you can afford to seek help privately, as I'm aware funded waiting times are usually long and not as quickly as needed, then look specifically to find a professional with experience with your particular situation. I know someone who has suffered with anxiety and depression since being a young girl and has found specific help to be more useful rather than generic help which can sometimes wash over you and not tackle the core problem longer term. Good luck and I hope you find the help you need xxx

[b1b1b1]

You can look for either a Child Psychiatrist or a Child Psychologist. They specialize in treating children and teenagers. If there is a long wait you can start by talking to the school social worker and your doctor or her pediatrician.

[Hidden]

I would consider home schooling her if you live in the USA. With the internet they have many options for home schooling. Although having this experience your daughter has the opportunity to learn how to cope with adversity. I don’t have to tell you how hard the real world can be. If you could find a way to show your daughter how to keep fighting when the chips are down it might make her stronger in the long run. I am only saying this because I left school at 16 because of anxiety attacks. It was not a good decision.

[MARYRD27]

I would take her to a licensed therapist who specializes in teenage girls. I also suffered from anxiety, depression and low self-esteem as a teen and would have panic attacks in the classroom. I highly recommend The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook by Bourne. Good luck.