Hi Mike
Welcome to the bb forum and thank you for sharing your story. I have walked in your shoes. My daughter was 13 when she experienced the kind of anxiety that you describe and was eventually diagnosed with OCD as well.
The first mental health practitioner we sought help from was not helpful. He was offering psychotherapy as well.
What I learned is that they are all different and operate differently. I got the names of three suitable psychologists from the staff at the bb support line and then interviewed them to find out how they would treat my daughter and get a feel for how I thought I could work with them before I exposed her to one of them. Thankfully we got the right match and CBT treatment commenced.
Medication was also recommended. After a lot of research, I saw this as a way to compliment the CBT and give her the best chance of getting well.
The first medication did not help (it exacerbated her symptoms) but the second one did. We got a referral to a pediatrician to manage her medication and oversee her health in general.
My daughter now had the right and best team caring for her and the best treatments to help her in the battle.
Recovery is possible; I watched my daughter achieve it. Just hang in there and keep ploughing on.
I'm not saying what we did is right for you but it worked for us.
I know this is a tough time for you, too. Please take good care of yourself and find some support for yourself. Family, friends, your GP and of course post here any time.
Kind thoughts to you and your daughter
