Sheffield councillor opens up about daughter's suicide attempt

Mosborough councillor Kevin Oxley said his daughter, who is now 20, had suffered from anxiety and depression and while she received good support, he had been left adrift as a parent.

He told a scrutiny meeting: “I’m the parent of a child who had anxiety, depression, self harmed and who tried to commit suicide.

“I really appreciated the support she got, from school in particular, and the work being done there is really good.

“But as a parent I always struggled with getting support for me. What should I do and say and where do I go for help, particularly with long waiting times? As a parent you are looking for answers and how you can help.

“There’s an awful lot of information for young people with depression or anxiety but there was very little information for parents whenever we were in a crisis.

“This is a plea not to forget about parents because they are the people trying to cope 24/7. Some of it is really simple things like directing people to a website which shows them what to say.

“Being directed to professionals is fine but what do parents do on a practical level? I have spoken to other people who have had similar experiences and say the same thing.”

Coun Jackie Drayton, Cabinet member for children and young people, agreed: “It’s really important we don’t forget the family. We are trying to do more about recognising the impact on families, friends and the community.”

The meeting heard there are almost 700 children and teenagers in Sheffield on the waiting list for a first appointment with mental health services.

There has been an almost 50 per cent increase in demand for community Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS).

If you are struggling, The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call 116 123 for free. You can also email [email protected] and someone will be in touch within 24 hours.