Hi there,

Thanks for contacting Ask Robyn with your question. We’re really sorry to hear that things have become so difficult. It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed, and understandably so. Supporting a teenager in crisis can be deeply distressing for everyone involved. Please know that you’re not alone, there are supports available for both your granddaughter and her parents to help them through this difficult time.

Understanding what might be going on

When a young person refuses to attend a service like CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) or seems “out of control,” it may be a sign that she’s experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties. Other possible factors could include peer influence, environmental stressors, feeling disconnected from trusted adults, or struggling with stress in a way that appears defiant or rebellious.

Steps her parents might take

We suggest the following actions for you and her parents to consider:

1. Encourage your granddaughter to contact Childline. Sometimes, it’s easier for young people to open up to someone outside the family. Childline is confidential and non-judgemental.
2. Parents should contact their GP. A GP can provide medical advice, assess emotional wellbeing, and refer to more specialist or community services if necessary.
3. Use SpunOut’s Service Navigator. This is a helpful tool to find local supports tailored to young people in Ireland.
4. If there are concerns about safety or self-harm, contact Pieta (1800 247 247), Samaritans (116 123), or call 999/112 in an emergency.

Support services for parents and grandparents

It’s equally important for you and her parents to have support too. Here are some trusted resources:

Parentline

• A confidential helpline for parents and guardians seeking advice on issues such as teenage anxiety, behavioural challenges, and school refusal.
• Parentline is supported by the ISPCC and provides personalised support. Call 01 873 3500 or visit parentline.ie.

Primary care and Tusla services (via HSE)

• GP: A good starting point for addressing behavioural or emotional concerns.
• Primary Care Mental Health Teams: Based in local health centres, these teams can include psychologists, social workers, and youth support workers.
• Family Resource Centres: Offered through Túsla, these provide community-based parenting workshops, counselling, and family supports. More information is available via citizensinformation.ie.

Ongoing support

You and your family are not alone. These services are here because many families go through similar situations. Whether it’s your granddaughter making contact with Childline, or her parents seeking guidance from their GP, there is help and hope.

If things continue to feel unmanageable, the ISPCC (Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) provides parenting support specifically for situations like this. You can reach their Parenting Support service at [email protected] or call 01 522 4300, Monday to Friday, 9:00 am–1:00 pm.

Take care,

Robyn