Where to find advice and strategies to support a young adult child with severe anxiety

Hi, I will be looking through the other posts when I have time but i am needing any help or advice as to who to go to for strategies to best support my 21 year old son.

History - He has been suffering anxiety and related depression since high school. He has considered harming himself in the past. He has been reluctant to seek medical help and I believe is embarrassed to discuss how he feels (also I think he can't understand why he feels this way). Studying science at Uni and averages HD. he has had to defer last year as became too stressed to face uni. Has commented that the psychologists so far are not all that smart, and he has to explain things to them, that they are not prepared when he sees them and have not reviewed their notes so he has to repeat himself. Live in Adelaide Hills, Australia.

Current - has been to a doctor for a referral to a psychologist, filled an anti-depressant prescription (not sure if taking). I have noted a change in behaviour. He stated on Monday that it was worse than ever before and he didn't trust himself to drive without others in the car as he wants to harm himself (he has a tree picked out). He has a very hard time sleeping and is constantly tired. He has just gone back to uni part time but fears he will not cope.

If anyone has any advice on how i might best support him it would be appreciated

THanks

Hi

Welcome to the forum but sorry to hear of your son's struggles with anxiety.

Anxiety is a tough thing to live with and if left untreated can really take over your life so it's good that he feels able to talk with you especially if he is having thoughts of harming himself so it's important to keep that communication open.

If he has been prescribed medication I would check to make sure he is taking it as this should help ease his symptoms but the best way to achieve recovery is to combine medication with talking therapy such as CBT or Mindfulness which have both been proven to be successful in treating anxiety. Self help is also very important and if you have a look at our resources you will find some good links.

Keep us posted.

Hibee

Hello and welcome!

I am sorry to hear of the struggles your son is currently facing. As a mom, who wants to see him feel his best and be healthy...this must be so difficult!

You mention him seeing psychologists in the past, and now with a current referral. ..

...I am wondering if a consultation with a psychiatrist might be a better choice? As a medical doctor this specialist can set up a medication plan, as well as facilitate the best form of therapy to help your son.

Also, has your son looked into the student help programs at his university, or talked with his counselor there? There could be groups that meet for support, and other Resources he could tap into! It could be a healing step to know he us not alone in his struggles...and seeing there is help and hope for students like himself could be a game changer.

Wishing you both the best. Post anytime and keep us updated!

Scaredy Cat