A distraught mother has spoken out in anguish after her profoundly suicidal 21-year-old daughter was allegedly turned away from critical mental health services, leaving the family in a state of terror and desperation.
The young woman, who has a documented and severe history of mental illness, was reportedly told by a clinician from the Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) that she was not eligible for support because her case was not deemed urgent enough.
'She told them she was going to kill herself,' the mother revealed, her voice heavy with emotion. 'She was completely honest about her plans and her intent. And they said she wasn't a priority. How much more of a priority can you be?'
This harrowing case has ignited fresh concerns over the mounting pressures and potential failings within the UK's mental health care system. It highlights a terrifying gap in support for vulnerable young adults transitioning from child to adult services.
A Family Living in Fear
The mother, whose identity is protected to safeguard her daughter's privacy, now lives in a constant state of vigilance. She describes the agonising reality of monitoring her daughter around the clock, terrified that a moment's lapse could end in tragedy.
'I am her mum, but I am not a mental health professional,' she pleaded. 'I shouldn't have to be the one keeping her alive. We reached out for professional help and were met with a closed door.'
Systemic Failure or Isolated Incident?
This incident raises serious questions about the assessment protocols and capacity within NHS mental health trusts. Critics argue that such cases are not isolated but symptomatic of a system stretched beyond its limits, where only the very acute receive immediate care, leaving those in dire need to fall through the cracks.
The mother's courageous decision to go public is a desperate call to action, aimed at preventing other families from enduring similar nightmares and demanding accountability and change from healthcare authorities.
