Need help - Caring for friend who has complex mental health issues

eco8lcy

Joining this  community because I need help with a complex mental health friend whose care and welfare has recently devolved on me. Problem began after a missed PIP assessment resulted in loss of benefits after almost a year the matter remains unresolved.  Without this support and care to live independently became unaffordable and I have been trying to supply this.  However, of late  suicide has become a game player and this coupled with paranoia (mistrust of society) has increased the stress and isolation.  I am hoping there are  others in similar situations here who can share their own experiences.  

Chris_Alumni

Hi @Eco8lcy, welcome to the community, and I'm sure there are plenty of our community members who can share their advice and experiences with you.

As you mention immediate mental health needs I would advise contacting mental health charity Mind on their 0300 123 3393 helpline (local call rates apply), and taking a look at their very informative pages on 'Helping someone else'. 

I would also recommend calling Scope's free helpline on 0808 800 3333 for guidance on benefits and independent living. I hope this helps, and that you are able to help your friend get the support they need.

eco8lcy

Thanks for advice Chris will check these out My friend is very suicidal at the moment and this is affecting me I try to stay upbeat because I notice when I show concern or appear worried this increases their negativity.  However nonchalance is difficult to maintain when one is worried.   

Chris_Alumni

If your friend is suicidal I would advise that you call Mind immediately as they are better positioned to guide you as to what steps you can take. I would say that this is the immediate concern and needs to be addressed without delay - once your friend's suicidal feelings have been dealt with, the underlying causes relating to benefits and other issues can be addressed at a later date, and this is something that Scope will be able to support with.

I'm also going to tag in @Debbie_Scope from the helpline in case they have anything to add.

Debbie_Alumni

Hello @eco8lcy

I'd like to have a chat with you if that's ok? Are you able to email [email protected] with your number (and user name so we can identify you) and we can arrange to call you and talk things through.

Many thanks
Debbie