Case study: Imogen
Imogen, 14, contacted Get Connected in a state of utter despair. Having been suffering from depression for several months, her problems had escalated, and her feelings of helplessness had led her to drink excessively, and even to harbour suicidal thoughts. Imogen told our Helpline Volunteer that she felt very vulnerable, and could no longer cope with feeling so powerless and out of control. She felt really afraid and deeply alone, and whilst she wanted to talk about these feelings, she felt that there was nobody in her life that she was able to open up to. Recognising Imogen's need for guidance and help, our helpline volunteer offered her the details of the Samaritans, so that she'd always have someone she could reach out to when she was feeling despairing or suicidal. We also told her about Listening Post, a drop-in centre close to her home in Newcastle, where she'd be able to go without an appointment if she felt she wanted to talk to somebody face-to-face for support. We offered to connect Imogen, free of charge, to Saneline, a mental illness helpline, so that she could talk candidly about her alcohol problems and depression, and explore paths for recovery. Imogen was eager to take positive steps towards a healthy and happier future, and commented that reaching out to Get Connected had left her feeling extremely well-supported and reassured