How do I help my mum through depression.

[Jadee0809]

My mum has been diagnosed with depression but she also has a gambling and amphetamine addiction, yesterday she tried committing suicide for the second time and I don't know how to help any more. She is on lots of medication to help her problems but it doesn't seem to be helping, is there anything out their to help her and my family??

[sasays]

Hi hun, Youre situation must be so difficult on you all. Have you tried using any of the helplines? You could ring the Samaritans and have a chat about things. We're not medical professionals so can't tell you what to do but i hope medical help has been saught. Sounds like she may need to be on anti-depressants and in therapy. They are not a scary as it sounds i promise. I'm so sorry i cant make it all go away x

[Hidden]

Hi

You don't say how old you are, but it sounds as though you are fairly young. If you are under 16 then definitely seek support from the local CAMS team as you can't be coping with your mum's problems while you still need help with growing up. If you are older, a teenager or young adult but still at home then the CMHT may be a source of help. It is not always easy to get an appointment but given your mum's problems it will be worth contacting them to see whether they can support you or at least advise you. Mind can be very good for support, and the Samaritans are helpful for when you feel desperate. Your GP should also know about the difficulties so it would be worth getting an appointment to discuss your feelings and to see whether the surgery staff are able to offer any help or support. You might also look on google to see whether you can find any local support groups for gamblers and their families as then you will be talking with people who are living with similar problems and have found ways of coping. Suexx

[missrat]

I was also going to suggest finding out about local groups for families of people with addictions. I think that ringing NHS Direct might be the easiest wayof getting reputable information.