Croydon CAMHS is a specialist service that supports children, young people (up to age 18) and their families who are struggling with their emotional or mental health. This may include anxiety, low mood, challenging behaviour, trauma, or difficulties related to autism or ADHD.

CAMHS works with families to understand what’s happening, offer advice, and provide the right support to help your child feel better and cope with everyday life. 

CAMHS supports children and young people who:

• Are experiencing emotional distress or mental health difficulties.
• May be feeling very anxious, sad, withdrawn, angry or overwhelmed.
• May have autism, ADHD, or a learning disability and are struggling with their emotions or behaviour.
• Are having difficulty at school, home or with friendships due to mental health challenges.
• Have experienced trauma, bereavement, or other difficult life events.

CAMHS is here to help your family find the right tools and strategies to manage these challenges. 

Support might include:

• Assessments to understand your child’s needs.
• Therapy sessions (individual or family-based).
• Help with managing behaviour, emotions, anxiety, or relationships.
• Advice for schools and professionals working with your child.
• Support around autism, ADHD, eating disorders, or low mood.
• Referral to specialist mental health services if needed.

Everything is tailored to suit the needs of your child and family. 

There are a few ways to access CAMHS support:

• Speak to your GP, school SENCo, health visitor, or social worker - they can refer your child.
• Some services allow self-referral, especially for young people aged 14+.
• In urgent situations, you can contact your GP or the NHS 111 service.

If you’re not sure where to start, your child’s school, local children’s centre, or SEND support service can help you with next steps. 

Croydon CAMHS is part of the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) and works across local clinics, schools, and community services. 

Please click here to find out more information.