Hi Ruth
My experience with meds is mixed. Key is getting a good Dr that considers the child carefully as an individual and seeks to understand the cause not just treat the symptom.
I have 2 kids with CAMHS. One with a good Dr and one with ..was going to say useless but its worse than that!
If life is a struggle its worth considering meds. Anti depressants can increase risk initially as the child may gain capacity to suicide before they show positive result.
I see no positive result but have been advised by a Dr I trust that Fluoxetine may be keeping a lid on symptoms ( even though she still suffers).
I understand that if a child is overly distressed it can be recommended to reduce symptoms first with meds before they have the capacity to engage with CBT.
there are a lot of people in education and CAMHS who do not know what they are doing. If not sure, ask for a second opinion.