I need to help my friend, his situation is more complex than normal to some degree. Can you help?
My best friend believes he is suffering from depression, and I believe he is too. But the 'getting help' factor is proving to be difficult in this situation. I have experience with depression with my father being diagnosed with it, after also being diagnosed with an untreatable case of neuralgia, so i am aware and well-educated about symptoms and treatment, although, I do not have enough knowledge to deal with this situation.
Being a teenager, but almost out of school (yes, I am a minor too), the first logical step to seeking help is to talk to parents about getting treatment and getting that help, but the problem is, his parents are part of the issue at hand and from what I know, not the most understanding and caring, or financially stable. He wants help, but he refuses to speak to his family. After witnessing the situation for a little while, and supporting him with all I have to keep him alive, I've decided that he needs additional aid and help as soon as possible, and I'm willing to help him in anyway possible.
As a friend, I want to know whether I, as a minor, have the ability to seek help, book appointments and help him recover myself, without needing his parents permission or a guardian present? And if so, what are the costs and financial arrangements in such a situation, especially for on-going costs like medication?
Any advice on how to deal with this situation would be greatly appreciated and hastely acted upon.
Hi Andi
You are a good friend indeed. I had recently written an article about getting treatment and/or meds if you have no insurance or money. You may find that article here. Please be sure to look at the comments as there are other resources listed there as well.
When I was a teen...I had no money and no help from my single parent. I sought treatment at a local community agency and they were a big help. I did not need permission to seek treatment and I had to pay a very small fee. If you are still in school you can also ask for guidance there...although it is summer so I imagine that you are out of school now.
Just start calling the local mental health agencies...explain the situation and get your friend an appointment somewhere. My article tells you how to do all this.
Let us know if you need more information. We are here for you!
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jpw2008
Friday, July 03, 2009 at 08:59 PM
Hi Andii
I have no advice just commendation,People need friends like you.
Hope your friend gets the help he needs
Jon
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Hi merely me,
Your story makes me look as though I didn't even try.
I don't have a clue where you got your inner strength.
You fought hard and were well rewarded
Congrats
Jon