My Daughter nearly 17 had to leave college due to severe Anxiety

Hi 

I'm new to the site but in need of some advice. My beautiful daughter started College last year after a very difficult time at secondary school. I thought things would finally look a little better for her but unfortunately things got worse. 

My daughter has a diagnosis of ASD and very bad Anxiety which we didn't get until year 10. The build up of constant panic attacks and not being able to sleep for more than a few minutes at a time or not at all, awake for days or going the other way sleeping for days, she would also go none verbal which made things very difficult as I didn't know what the problem was or how to help.  College did try to help but she just found the whole experience so traumatic that she had to take a medical absence. I'm not sure she is going to be able to return come September as this was the plan. 

I don't know what to do!  I'm not sure if she could even do an apprenticeship. I am not sure what we do from here, she has weekly psychology sessions which had to be put on hold due covid. They also agree that college might not be the best choice.   

What happens now? If we don't do college or some form of work? I know that young adults are supposed to be in some for of education until 18 but that clearly isn't right for her.

We would be grateful for some advice if anyone has any.

Many thanks

Jo 

Parents
  • Hi Jo,

    I'm sorry to hear that your daughter is having a difficult time.

    It may be worth contacting The Education Rights Helpline on 0808 800 4102, which provides general information about educational rights and entitlements, as well as advice on specific topics such as getting extra help in school (college, in this instance), assessments, education plans, reviews or transport.

    When the helpline re-opens on May 17th, you may additionally like to contact our Parent to Parent service on 0808 800 4106, who offer emotional support to parents and carers of children or adults with autism. This service is confidential and run by trained parent volunteers who are all parents themselves of a child or adult with autism. 


    Our general autism helpline is also open now and taking calls until May 19th - you can reach us on 0808 800 4104.

    Wishing you both all the best,

    Kevin Mod

Reply
  • Hi Jo,

    I'm sorry to hear that your daughter is having a difficult time.

    It may be worth contacting The Education Rights Helpline on 0808 800 4102, which provides general information about educational rights and entitlements, as well as advice on specific topics such as getting extra help in school (college, in this instance), assessments, education plans, reviews or transport.

    When the helpline re-opens on May 17th, you may additionally like to contact our Parent to Parent service on 0808 800 4106, who offer emotional support to parents and carers of children or adults with autism. This service is confidential and run by trained parent volunteers who are all parents themselves of a child or adult with autism. 


    Our general autism helpline is also open now and taking calls until May 19th - you can reach us on 0808 800 4104.

    Wishing you both all the best,

    Kevin Mod

Children
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