depression, emo-ism, no motivation?

My 15 year old (almost 16) step-daughter has my husband and I lost.

We bought her a cellphone because we work full time (I work for 3 weeks out of town then 3 weeks home when I work on our business).

The cell phone has been disastrous. I've had to block everything I could to control the bill which should be 61.60$ monthly but has gone to $400+ one month. There's only so much I can do there so ended up blocking data and everything that could rack the bill up.

She's pretty, tall skinny thing. Quirky with her clothing combinations. I know some bullyinh she has talked about is jealousy.  She refuses to socialise with anyone except dad and me and her online 'friends'. She won't leave the house unless either dad or me are with her.

She liked yoga-i bought her a membership and have encouraged her to go. Its the only time she leaves the house.

She's constantly sick or achy or in pain. Doctors, xrays, chiropractor, oTC meds and even prescription meds don't help the pain. I know its psychological.

She won't talk to anyone except dad and me. Oh and her online friends. Insists on spending hours online gaming or skyping or whatever. Whenever we've tried to limit the internet she becomes unbearable.

She won't get a job even though no more allowance. She won't even try volunteering ANYWHERE even though I've found 12 local charities, centres, etc looking for volunteers

We feel like failures. Trying everything we can.  

Anyone got more suggestions? Anti-depressants are unlikely to work because she will only take any meds for a few days then won't. Having suffered alcoholism and sever depression myself from age 6 to 21 I know pills don't work by themselves

Thanks

[stircrazy04]

I just have to say at least she talks to you.  So keep the communication up.  Maybe do some extra things together and invite a friend or two over.  I have a 15 y.o too and it is not easy.  So, good luck and stay strong.  

[RockRose]

Online socializing is SO easy, and it kind of can take the place of face to face real life relationships which can be hard.  

She sounds like she is physically addicted to her online gaming - it produces endorphins and a feeling of well being and socializing when she's in fact just sitting typing into a box.  

I'd consider taking it away.  Leave her phone,  which is great, but enough of the internet.  Or,  offer that as a drastic solution.  If you don't ______,  we're taking your internet away.  

Volunteer with her!  I see lots of parents and teens at our animal shelter working together on weekends.