Need help - Caring for friend who has complex mental health issues
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eco8lcy
Community member Posts: 2 Listener
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.
Comments
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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. -
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.
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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.
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Hello @eco8lcy
I'd like to have a chat with you if that's ok? Are you able to email helpline@scope.org.uk 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
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