Anyone have experience of serious depression in a 13 year old?

Another thing - at her age online bullying could tip her over into depression. I would guess it's something she doesn't want to talk about.

Awful, but if you are in a position to pay, I would go for that ASAP.

If the young person is able to keep in touch with friends that may help?

Thank you all for your supportive thoughts, and for the ideas you have presented. I am talking a lot with my DD to try and support her and trying to guide her in the direction of help - I am happy to pay for it if needs be. It is very hard for the family to be witnessing such a degree of distress, but being powerless to help and not knowing how best to respond. It is a big stress on everyone.

How does the depression present, Luckygirl?

If you can identify this, it may help you to identify the type of support she needs.

so sorry Luckygirl. If you possibly can pull back a bit emotionally and list all the options available in the area. Make a plan and add a time scale.
The young person needs to know its not their fault, it is very very common and it will go away.

See a different GP. Some are better then others and ask for a second opinion.

Not a 13 year old, but had this with an 18 year old. It is very frightening, you feel out of your depth.
The child has to want help. If they do that helps. Get them counselling, anti depressants if necessary. Talk to them, support them and be there.
I feel for you, it’s horrible. My child came through. yours will too. It sounds like she wants help, so that’s good. And the school, and now, your doctor are on board. Please let us know how things go. Xx

I have worked in CAMHS.

Begin by asking her what helps her to feel better and how you can help with that. If he is a reader, I would definitely look at Young Adult books, and do think about 'fantasy' books that can often allow readers to think more widely.

Pursue all the avenues above. School must be told (at least something) and they may have referral options. They may suggest a referral to the school nurse, who may themselves be trained in dealing with mental illness, or a have a referral pathway.

Ask for a CAMHS referral because even if the waiting list is long, many departments have useful links or ideas.

Young Minds website can be very helpful.

Do consider, if you can afford it, a private referral, but please use caution. Young Minds has a helpful section. Counselling qualifications can be very variable, and some are not experienced at working with adolescents.

In the meantime, don't underestimate the value of 'just being there'.

Yes Luckygirl as you say extreme depression.
The GP tried to explain away with hormones starting periods etc.
It took a handwritten letter from the 13 year old pleading for help and saying how awful her day to day life was before the Doctor sat up and took notice.
She organised (quite quickly) counseling at young persons unit and medication was provided.
The school was onboard as well.

I wish you all a successful outcome.
It is truly awful watching and feeling so helpless.

I'm thinking that there's usually a trigger as a cause for depression in a person whatever age ?

Very worrying Luckygirl. The GP hasn't cut it. If you can afford a private referral, I'd do that. I've pm'd you

Very worrying - is she taking any medications?
What does her school say about her?

Most high schools have a trained counsellor onboard could that be a first move ?
Obviously by the words ‘ serious’ and ‘very sick’ indicates there have been some worrying happenings around her I would ask to see a different doctor and make sure he or she realises the serverity and puts something in place, a leaflet and a waiting list is not helpful if you feel it is very serious he/ she needs that pointing out

Speaking from experience as a teenager a good counsellor.

It sounds as if she should have had a referral to CAMHS, though I believe a lot have long waiting lists. I believe some CAHMS can accept self referral from parents so it may be worth looking into this or return to GP and ask specifically for a referral.

Ps, a good counsellor , should tell you if this situation is beyond her expertise

Sorry to read this ,she needs to be able to talk to an experienced counsellor.
Often there is a waiting list, so if you can I would look for private ( prices vary) make sure they are accredited. Best wishes