This place is no home

I've been suffering from depression for about five years, but I recently had a breakdown and had to give up uni and move home. It's been really horrible - I can't stand being at home and I'm finding it very hard to get on with my parents. I really need to get away from them and have my own space to recover.

Can you please recommend a live-in place where I could get help for my depression? I'm quite happy to go anywhere in Britain and can go private if it's not too expensive. The local NHS services have been no help and don't know of anywhere. Please help, I feel my depression is worsening while I'm at home and I'm going downhill rather than recovering.

Depression can be an isolating experience and recovering from a breakdown is hard. It is good to hear you are keen to seek treatment for your depression to suit your needs. It must be frustrating to feel the NHS services you have received so far have proved unhelpful.

Usually, the first step forward would be to speak to your doctor (GP) about your concerns. Be honest about the impact that living at home with your parents is having on you. There are supported housing schemes available to people with mental health issues, but many require a professional referral. Your GP should be able to help you explore the options available to you.

Your local Housing Association may take self referrals, so you may like to give that a try. You can contact the Housing Association through your local council. You could also call your local Mind, who may also provide accommodation services in your area. To find your nearest branch, call 0845 766 0163. Finally, there is information here on TheSite.org about seeking independent accommodation, which you may like to take a look at.

Have you spoken to your parents about the way you are feeling? Caring for someone who is experiencing depression can be hard, and leave many close friends and family feeling helpless and unsure what to do. By talking to your parents, they may begin to understand your situation better, enabling them to support you more effectively.

Of course, you may not feel able to do this. Some people find it easier to talk to someone they do not know. SANEline is a national mental health helpline offering confidential emotional support and information to anyone experiencing mental health problems. They will be able to give you the time and space to talk about how you are feeling, without judging you or telling you what to do. If you feel this could help, you can call them on 0845 767 8000. There is also a discussion board on the SANE website.

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Question answered by SANE

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