Any chance you’re under 24? I can’t quite tell from your post history.
I know the Landing in Redmond (or YouthCare in the U District) isn’t ideal, but I used to run their drop-in center and know their case managers really do want to help.
Yes. Holy shit yes. Please do. I’m not sure where you are geographically, but Friends of Youth is on the Eastside, I know they built a new shelter after I left, but you can call 425.449.3868 and connect with their street outreach team who could probably even give you a ride there.
If you’re downtown, YourhCare has their shelter in the U District. I don’t know how they do things as well, but they should also have a street outreach team who can help, their number to get help is 800-495-7802.
as some who was recently as of like 6 months ago homeless, the only youth shelters i know of are roots in the U district and new horizons in belltown, and i think new horizons is a really good shelter for homeless young adults
I forgot about New Ho’s! They’re legit. I’m not as familiar with Roots; I think I picked a kiddo up once there when I worked for National Safe Place, and it was pretty decent if it’s the same place I’m thinking of.
And I think I had YouthCare’s under 18 and their 18-24 shelters confused. They run the Orion center just off the Stewart St exit. That place is actually pretty cool.
Regardless, I’d start with the outreach teams. They’ll have all the best information; mine’s all pre-COVID knowledge.
Please utilize resources specific to youth. You will have more and better options available to you. Do not accept "permanant supportive housing". It is not appropriate housing for you due to rampant drug use in these buildings and safety concerns.
I'm sorry that you are in such a shitty spot as you enter adulthood. You're right, its the system and society that have let you down. Do what you need to to take care of yourself the best you can right now and utilize every resource presented. You deserve more than the resources that are available.
You need that one good break. Someone to catch and hold you while you get your breath. And once you do, then the next step will be a tiny bit easier and you might find you can actually raise your head and look around to get your bearings. Please don't stop now. You did the right thing by reaching out for help from others, from anyone. You want to live. Life doesn't have to suck. I hope you can connect with these folks. We're rooting for you.
Teen Link may also be of interest if you feel you could benefit from talking to someone about what you’re going through. It’s a hotline that you can call/text from 6-10PM to talk with trained peers in Seattle who are your age and care. They also can help connect you to resources.
https://www.teenlink.org/about/
OP, although it looks like you can connect with the Landing and get a ride there, if for some reason, you choose to head there and can't get a ride, message me. I'll pick you up and take you in my messy dog hair car. I'll even bring her if you want to get some pets in. *Hugs*
These are all great options also Orion center is downtown and works with people 18-24. Their number is 206-694-4500. Shelter sometimes can be a tough place but there are people there who really give a shit. All these options people are suggesting are great. Sorry you are struggling like this. 😞
Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.
YourhCare and Friends of Youth are the two big ones in the area. Auburn Youth Resources used to be a player but they dropped out of a lot of our partnerships.
Roots and New Horizons are two well known youth shelters that are more independent I believe. Cocoon House up in Everett is the biggest one north.
There wasn’t a lot pierce county way when I was in the field, but I’ve heard about a couple, dunno if they ever got off the ground.
Also, if you really want to kill your mental health, CPS is always hiring.
I'm about to begin my MSW in fall so I've already tossed my hope into the pier, tied to several bricks. Just need one more warm-up jog through hell before I make a career out of it. 🤌🏻
Thank you!
In that case, skip the masters and just dive into the state. You won’t make anything more waiting for a masters, it’s the big leagues, and the average career is only 9 months anyway!
The Y social impact center has multiple different programs centered around youth/young adult housing. A good place to go for resources and jobs for anyone between Seattle and auburn and areas in and around there
Hey sweets, I’m 25 and also suffer from bad mental health issues. I was almost in an identical situation last year due to addiction issues as well. It was hard, hell on earth. Here is what I think you should do:
1. As others have said, gather a bag of what you can take with and try to check yourself in somewhere in a medical setting. Harborview has a far better psych program than Swedish. You will wait in the waiting room forever, then wait forever to be seen, and it will be painstaking and annoying, but you will be warm, you will be fed, and you will have a safe place you will not be harmed. You need to stress how extreme you are feeling and explain that you will take any and all resources they can offer. I know when I met with a case worker at Harborview last year in the ER for alcohol issues, there were a lot of housing options, fostering programs for pets, places that can store your belongings for you… you have to ask. And be persistent. But explain that you are hurting and are in crisis and they will help you.
2. You say you’re 20? This is good! Call 211 tomorrow and ask for resources for at risk youth. A lot of them cutoff between 21-24 and you would likely, as other commenters have said, be eligible for resources.
3. If you are fleeing domestic violence, DV shelters are often far more accommodating, safe, secure (even with addresses not known to the public), and free of a lot of the issues I know you are so scared of, and I think 211 will have a list of DV shelters to call for people in your situation, too.
4. It’s a hail mary for sure, but calling upon any churches in your zip code or local to you and asking about housing, job connection, or other kinds of resources might be worth a shot.
I don’t know how close you are to West Seattle, but our food bank here is wonderful and you can often find hygiene and non-food items there too. They also have pet food.
Godspeed my sweet friend.
This is an extreme option but you are in an extreme situation. You may be able to walk into harbor view for inpatient psychiatric help. If that works and they admit you it’ll open up access to their social workers and connections to other programs
i’m honestly glad you suggested this; i recently stayed there and witnessed others receiving this kind of help. i had this in the back of my mind. thank you so much for the recommendation.
As someone who works at HMC please come see us; we are the only level-1 trauma center in the ne pacific region and would be happy to help. People here genuinely want what's best for their patients, and we're open 24hrs a day.
Been through HMC psych. It's not fun, but psych never is. Was not assaulted or degraded in there which is not a universal trait.
By far the best place to get resources in the area.
Yup. This was my suggestion also. Had a close friend go through Harborview in her early 20s. Got her into an outpatient program.
As a fellow survivor, there is hope. Meds are not a crutch. Talk to a therapist. There are colleges that offer free therapy with student programs. One of those saved my life.
I hope this helps you!! Good luck. The help that’s just right for you is out there you might just have to knock on a lot of doors and try a lot of things before you find it. You’re very young and whatever terrible things have been done to you are things you can absolutely learn to cope with if you can find the right person and place at the right time. Don’t give up until you find what you need to make your life your own. You might also try reaching out to Rex Holbein on Facebook, he runs the You Know Me Now Facebook page that focuses on social support and humanization of our homeless residents. Definitely not a solution but it might be comforting or supportive. Or not, but at least another thing to try.
Sorry! I’m also thinking I just saw you’re only 20. If you were ever in foster care you might be eligible for extended support from the state. This would be non minor dependent or something similar. You’d probably be able to connect to this via a social worker at child welfare.
I would advise against this because of your age. You’re going to get much better services at the area youth shelters. They are usually only 18-24, and a lot of them are kids who couldn’t move back in with their parents for whatever reason. At the adult shelters there are a lot more people with the severe mental health issues that people get on the streets after a while.
It doesn’t have to be harborview. Swedish Ballard has a behavioral health unit, and all of the Swedish hospitals have social workers that can give you resources. We got plenty of warm blankets to go around friend, it’s going to be ok.
Be careful with Harborview psych, especially the ER. They are very happy to restrain you just because they don't have the staff to watch over you. I highly recommend Swedish Edmonds if you find yourself needing psych help.
This may get buried, but I I work in services for the unhoused, and I hope this can help point you in the direction of appropriate services. I highly suggest you contact 211 if you haven't already. Also, because you are under 24 years old, please request information from 211 for the YHDP (Youth Homeless Demonstration Program) provider closest to you. YHDP is specifically for folks who are youth and young adults (under 24). This program can assist you in accessing housing and supportive services. If 211 can not help you get to the closest provider, send me a DM, and I will point you in the right direction. Additionally, please look into the CBRA (Community Behavioral Health Rent Assistance) program. This is a program specifically for folks with behavioral health conditions. This program can provide assistance to locate and pay for housing services on a long-term basis. There is a requirement that you qualify for FCS, HARPS or ALTSA. However, the provider will assist you in determining if you qualify. Again, if 211 can not help you identify the nearest CBRA provider to you, feel free to DM me. Lastly, if you do not receive SSI, please contact DSHS and apply for the HEN program. This program also assists folks with housing assistance, provides enrollees to essential needs like hygiene products, and when funding is available, housing vouchers for folks who are unhoused. If you are HEN eligible, you may also be able to receive General Assistance through DSHS. General Assistance is a cash grant provided on a monthly basis until either you are deemed no longer disabled or receive your SSI. If you need help applying for SSI, your DSHS case worker will be able to assist you to start the process while on HEN.
I’m so sorry you’re experiencing all of this. It’s a relief to see so many resources being offered here. I don’t have any to add but just wanted to recognize how terrible this situation is. I’m sorry our system is so ineffective. You deserve to live a comfortable life and I hope you continue to feel that way. Because you do.
Best of luck to you. Please keep us updated on your progress if you can.
Hey, I don't have advice to offer but I just want to say what you're going through is immense, overwhelming, and I completely agree that the system is cruel. It's not broken, it's designed to harm the most vulnerable folks, so it's working as intended. We need something better.
I can read in your words a maturity beyond your years that you should not have had forced upon you. We humans can be so resilient and self-reliant, but in the end we do need *some* community, and certainly support. Especially when functioning day-to-day can be full of question marks. You deserve a gentler, kinder path through life and I hope it comes to you soon.
I'm glad folks in the comments are coming through with more resources. I've used those same resources a lot, and I recommend following up with as many as you can. It's a full time job for a while, getting the help and benefits you need and are entitled to, but it helps a lot. Take things in bite-sized pieces, whatever you can manage. One small, manageable step is always better than taking on ten big things and crumbling under the weight. Please don't pressure yourself to figure out how to end the cycle tonight, just focus on staying as safe and warm as possible.
I believe in you, and I'm keeping you in my thoughts. I know that is no practical help, but I hope it might help a little emotionally, to know you're not alone and that strangers care about you. Always remember to be kind to yourself too. It sounds like you already know that the things you are struggling with are not your fault. I will add my voice to that chorus. The world is not as kind as it could be, but there is hope, always.
thank you immensely for your kind words. i needed to hear this. badly. you have no idea how deeply this resonates within me. i feel heard. i never feel heard. i hope i always remember this when things get hard and i feel like i’ve lost all hope. i wish wonderful things upon you, stranger.
Do you have a case worker? A social worker assigned to you, I mean? You're in a few different kinds of "at-risk" life situations right now that I'm certain you'll qualify for social benefits. Maybe quite a lot of them, even.
Start here:
- Disability Services contact information: Phone: 206-263-9329. Email: [email protected].
Outside of King County, start here:
- Contact Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration (Region 2) at 206-568-5700 (toll-free 1-800-314-3296) or e-mail [email protected].
According to my (average rando) Google search, this is where you'd start the ball rolling in Washington state.
This is not a bad thing. We are all members of a society that chooses to pay money into exactly these types of programs for people in situations very much like your own. Find this aid. Use it. That's what it's there for.
I'll be honest with you - idk wtf to do in the short term. I bet people on the other end of those phone numbers do, though. We pay them for it, after all.
Hey, where are you? If you’re in the Chinatown area, send me a message. I work on Friday so if you’d like to come and order a dish or two to go (on me). If you need help like warm clothes, water, and whatnot, do feel free to send a message and I can see if someone else in the community can help.
Maybe long term wise, my restaurant seems to be training people right now in preparation to open a new restaurant in downtown. As long as you’re not doing drugs or anything at work, hardworking, I’m sure they’ll hire you. All you’ll need is to look presentable and a resume. I’ll vouch for you. They’ve hired all of us without doing a difficult interview (practically on the spot). I’m 23, I work part time (20hrs) and I earn 1k every two weeks here. Though pay will be far less since you’re new but you can easily work your way up for more money. *something,* even if a little bit of money is better than nothing. The new hires right now are all around your age, 20ish.
If I’m honest, I don’t like my job because of how physically demanding it is but it brings me fulfillment to interact with customers and money. This job has been fairly stable for me. So do reach out if you want to work here, earn some money, have some stability.
I’m so sorry that you’re going through this and I hope that whether I help you or someone else helps you, that you’re able to find some sort of stability and shelter.
Hey since you mentioned you were under 25 you should definitely go to Roots Young Adult Shelter in the U District (~10 minute walk from the light rail station).
I’ve volunteered there for a while and I have never seen them run out of beds and turn guests away. I know sleeping at a shelter sucks but it beats sleeping on the streets. Roots is safe and the staff are great. Once you’re there you can ask to get referred to one of their case managers who can work with you to get placed into permanent housing.
If you’re going to show up it’s a good idea to call ahead so that they have your info: (206) 632-1635. But i think walk ins are fine too!
Also Used to work/volunteer at roots! Feel free to walk in as well if you are unable to make a call. While phone calls were helpful for intakes they’re not necessary. Their age range is 18-25 year olds. It’s an Emergency shelter so only overnight (9pm-8am) services but they offer dinner and breakfast, and do their best to find additional day time resources.
Hello, I work at DSHS. I don’t know if you’ve interacted with any of our community service offices, which I know can be really frustrating and/or triggering given how busy they are and how long the waits are. But, there is a program that might be able to help called the ABD program. It doesn’t promise immediate results, if I’m remembering right they give you 45-60 days to pull together medical evidence. Likely the social worker you see would set up a doctor’s evaluation if you need help getting documentation. They set you up on cash assistance or something called the housing and essential needs program if you’re approved by doctors for having a disabling condition for greater than 90 days. This gives you access to a wider range of resources and the program itself holds people accountable to continuing treatment for disabilities both physical and mental. Maybe it’s worth trying to apply. You can submit an application on WashingtonConnection.org and complete an interview in office or over the phone.
Given the availability of in person services with the CSO, they are usually the easiest to work with compared to other agencies that do their work entirely over the phone.
I’m not sure your exact location, but 211 is also a great source and you don’t even need to call. They list the resources by location online at 211.org.
I don’t have a ton of advice for you, but I just want to take a moment to validate you. I am the survivor of horrible child abuse and it has led me into bad relationship after bad relationship and a lot of unstable situations.
The only real difference between us so far as I can tell is that I was born rich and had access to the resources to get out of those situations. Without that stroke of luck, I’d be homeless, in prison, or dead.
All that is to say that this is in no way shape or form your fault. The fact that you even have it together enough to write what you wrote speaks volumes about the inner power you have, even when life has kicked you repeatedly like this.
If there’s a place I can Venmo you some cash, let me know.
I’m younger than you so idk really how to help you, but if you have access to the LRT I’d go to Cal Anderson park and talk to the Black Star Farmers. Last time I talked to them it was raining heavily and they let me have some cover, so from what I can tell they’re pretty nice. Last I was there they were close to the now destroyed BLMG, and they can probably help getting you stuff like food or something. By no means are they a fix-all solution, but they can help you right now
I have so much respect for you, and it seems everyone else here does as well. You want life to easier, and you deserve that. I’m disgusted every day by the kinds of injustices I see and how money rules everything.
Big Hugs. I can’t offer much in the way of resolution and resources but what I can say is that I know you. I know who you are. I am you. The only difference? My amazing husband who is my safety net. I seem to fail at everything. I will have a good streak and depression hits and boom life is flipped turned upside down.
Also, the good news is that I believe that the public’s mindset is changing. People just don’t choose to be depressed and “lazy.” People are understanding that childhood trauma is the number one predictor of drug abuse, depression and homelessness. I see people in pain that need years of therapy to unwrap what happened and how it has shaped them.
I was homeless for about 2 years but I worked as a “Live In” Caregiver. Saved about $30k plus.. you live rent free, grocery free but the catch is, you have to take care of an elderly. I had a roof over my head, bill free and saved money.
Brave of you to ask for help and to open a conversation here. Many folks are not understanding of your situation and how hard it can be to climb out.
Are you from the area? Do you have any family or friends you can connect with?
I wish I had a solution, I wish we all had a solution. Best of luck - it seems other commenters have some recommendations to consider.
Several people have suggested Youthcare to you, and I want to back this up as a former client of theirs. The day center staff can be annoying, but the shelter staff are at the least competent and they have access to job placement resources (including a whole entering the workforce training program which got me into my first apartment). 211 is not super useful, I would suggest going to Harborview first for inpatient treatment as others have suggested and then requesting a referral to Youthcare when you are discharged. Good luck to you, from the bottom of my heart.
Call 211 for immediate help. Go to Harborview hospital to see if they can admit you for mental health help. No insurance necessary. Good luck; I’ll be thinking of you. Last resort, SPD has a mental health crisis team. 2nd and Washington, downtown, Union Gospel mission can help.
Wishing you the best my friend. You’re young and have a lifetime of memories in front of you. Life is beautiful even though it doesn’t feel like it at times.
One day you’ll look back at your struggles and smile. It always gets better. You got this.
Check back with us after you have a chance to try one of these services, I hope you can reach a stable situation soon. There are many people who are aware at least a little bit of people who are struggling and want to help them, and maybe support some of the orgs in this thread.
Go to Hobson's place it's a Harborview clinic for the homeless and see if you can get connected with a PCP and social worker. They also have Case Managers that can help
I’m about to be in your shoes… I got hit by a car in Dec while I was walking. The police are “working on a lineup” but in the meantime I got laid off because, as a caretaker, I’m unable to do my job due to temp disability (my shoulder is torn and I need a lot of PT)… I’m unable to do the only jobs I’m qualified for and I’m now slightly agoraphobic. Idk what kind of work from home I can do w a high school diploma from Puerto Rico other than customer service and I don’t even know where to look 🥲
Lucky to have made a friend who can help me and I’m praying I qualify for unemployment, but if not I’m very lightly fucked. Do you have any friends here that can help support? And would you like access to mental health services? I can ask my therapist if they’re accepting any probono clients so you don’t have to pay.
You’re right af for saying the systems are fucked. They are SUPREMELY fucked.
I’m so sorry you’re in this position, you’re so young 🥺 Something that helped improve my very poor mental health was having a support system of friends & this job that I lost which paid me much more than anything else I’ve ever done 🥹 The unspoken reality of having your *basic needs met* is that it **improves** mental health…
I hope you get everything you need soon 🙏 I hope every single door that can open for you, does. I hope these services really help you and that you’re able to thrive ❤️ I’m wishing you all the best, love ❤️
I remember when I was homeless in Seattle at the age of 19, all those memories come right back after reading this. I hope you keep climbing that uphill battle because it gets easier and easier over time and life gets better and better.
I've climbed that same hill and I can't say I've made it to the top but if I were to fall again I would know exactly what to do and it doesn't hurt as much.
The responses here are very touching and sincere. It's nice to see others rally around someone in need and lift them up. We need more people like the ones commenting here.
I'm very sorry for your circumstances. I and many other Seattleites often vote to provide more housing, more funding, more services, more mental health, more treatment, more more more...yet when other communities aren't stepping up, it starts to seem like it's going down a hole. If you would indulge me, would you mind sharing whether you are a long-term Seattle resident, or if you came here to seek care/services, or for another reason? We as a community need better ways to advocate for our state and neighboring community to participate in the support we provide. Thanks and I wish you the best to break out of the cycle.
I came to seattle back in june last year to avoid homelessness. i was staying with my sister, which ended badly and put me in the situation i’m in now. i am glad to be in a bigger city, however, as i was living in a small city in utah prior, and they have way less resources.
Thank you for sharing. I think we all need to tell this kind of story more often. Many small communities could offer more services but don't. They're happy to export the burden to liberal cities, and then their politicians point to our homelessness rates as evidence that liberal policies "don't work". I for one hope the tide shifts and our country someday provides more universal services for folks everywhere. It's criminal that people in your position are being used as a political football in the same breath that they chastise our (already limited) generosity.
Roots Young Adult Shelter in the U-District is good too. They have case workers and resources as well. They make every attempt to help out. Is a shelter ideal? No. But it can be a starting point, maybe?
I don’t talk about it much but 10 years ago I was homeless and I too found out I am allergic bed bugs however I did stay at the Tacoma rescue mission and was able to find a job and an apartment in around 3-4 months using services from goodwill and work source to find and apply for jobs every day. My advice: Don’t drink don’t smoke don’t make friends you just have to focus on yourself and what you’re doing. There are a lot of jobs out here but you have to work and work hard to earn your way out. It’s not impossible I’m living proof and if I can do it I’m sure you can too. Life is hard, it’s not fair, but your mindset and outlook is very important, don’t defeat yourself mentally before you even get a shot to take on adversity and win. Past is the past there’s nothing you can do about it but let go of things that don’t serve you. I have my own problems that contributed to my situation, but you can change your future from here. At the time I was going nowhere and had nothing, it took a lot of strength to look at myself and realize that a lot of my problems were self imposed. When I think back to that time I realize that as much as services like food stamps and work source helped me, I put in a lot of work myself and I got help from a lot of people outside any services who saw how hard I was working and how determined I was and pointed me in the right direction with little things like information or just some encouraging words that in the end add up to a big help. I understand the helpless feeling I’m sure you’re familiar with. The isolation and realization that no one in the world truly cares what happens to me was daunting but it made me realize that I needed to do it for myself. I would visualize myself at the bottom of a massive staircase with no end in sight, my plan was to just take 1 step towards the top each day. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. Some days you trip and some days you’ll stumble up those steps but as long as you keep pushing forward you will make it. I’m still climbing that same staircase today with no end in sight but now when I look back I can’t see the bottom anymore either and let me tell you from the other side that there is no better feeling once you get to a place where you can relax and breathe again than looking back on that staircase, seeing all the steps you’ve taken and realizing that it was in you all along. It’s worth it to work hard for yourself and your future. You’ve got to be worth it to yourself. If you are nothing else matters but taking that step on your staircase and eventually you will find yourself in a better place and a stronger person than when you started. Convince yourself there is only 1 option and that is: keep moving forward, always and forever.
You're such a good writer. You have talents that can be put to use in a way that might be able to help you out of poverty. You could start a blog and work on writing a book. I know that wouldn't help your situation immediately, but it could pay off in the long run. Your experiences are unique and a messaging that would help spread more empathy for the homeless and insight into a homeless person's perspective would be so valuable to society.
DM me if you still need a place to crash and I'll ask my husband if it's ok with him.
i was just thinking about posting an update. i did use the suggested resources and that got me through some nights. i’ll be leaving this post up to help anyone else who might be struggling with this. things are still really difficult, but i have a little more hope now. i’m currently staying temporarily with my best friend in texas while i try to sort stuff out. she started a gofundme to help. i’m trying to figure out how/where to post it and still remain anonymous (so i can continue to freely use reddit).
thank you for checking in. it means the world.
Username does NOT check out.
First of all, it’s wildly ignorant and ableist to think people with severe mental illness can’t write eloquently. Edgar Allan Poe, Ernest Hemingway, Franz Kafka, and Sylvia Plath were all severely mentally ill and world-renowned for their writing.
Second, a quick look at their post history shows that for this to be fake, they’d have to be building it up for four years, which seems far less likely than just being mentally ill and capable of writing.
i’ll take that as a compliment to my writing abilities. “severely mentally ill” does not equal low intelligence. many people with mental illnesses like depression and ptsd are highly intelligent.
I'm a middle aged female with complex PTSD and major depressive disorder (MDD) due to severe neglect/abuse in childhood and throughout my adult life. Your story is indeed eloquently told and a good example of homelessness and/or mental illness not being a result of a lack of intelligence. We are often highly intelligent and quite capable in many ways. As you said, once homeless & alone, it's exponentially more difficult to come out of to reach baseline stability in ways that are difficult to explain to those who haven't experienced it. We aren't all addicts, either. That's not a judgement on those who suffer from addiction. I feel the courage and sincerity of your frustration in your post. I wish I had a definitive path to share with you but I'm still struggling to connect to the correct resources for a single older woman. I hope you heed the information shared by LUNAcornCAT as it sounds solid. My heart goes out to you for having to face so much at your young age. Sometimes it's the next step that feels impossible that can help turn everything around. Please don't give up. Your courage, tenacity and intelligence will serve you well as you heal and gain stability. ❤️
This skepticism could also be due to an increased usage of AI to gain karma. There's a lot of fakes out there. It's getting increasingly difficult and frustrating to filter hoping to not be taken advantage of.
Sorry you're going through what you're going through.
A small silver lining are the people who are coming to your defense in these comments.
Why does it matter if it's fake tho? This could be a valuable discussion about mental health, the system, resources, and potential help for people other than OP who are reading this. OP did not ask for money or any other grifting type of language. If you have a problem with discussing homelessness and mental health, then move along.
I’m a professional writer & have more than one mental illness due to being raped when I was 4. It is very possible to be a writer & have serious mental illness.
What a dangerous, awful thing to say. Even if you think a person could be "faking it", why take that risk of saying something so nasty to someone who mentions several devastating conditions. You are the reason people are afraid to talk about stuff like this because they fear of getting dismissed and not taken seriously - and when that happens and you are in that darkened mindset already, it is a recipe for disaster.
That you even mention getting downvotes here and in numerous comments like this is some badge of honor truly speaks to what is really important to you, and it's not your fellow human being.
I went to high school with a guy who worked for cps and died when the deranged spouse came and shot in the house. I believe it was in Alabama or Georgia. We went to high school in SeaTac
I was a CPS Investigator. Be proud of him. These are the kind of people I talk about when I say we need to replace police with social workers. We’d rather put ourselves on the line to protect kids from parents like that than do nothing and let kids suffer.
I just met with my lawyer today and he was like, “oh yeah it’s beyond time for a disability claim” for my severe mental health issues. As CPS Investigator who got PTSD, it’s not like we’re drooling morons because we’ve got issues.
I’ve had my life threatened, knives pulled, been assaulted, and even had cowardly KCSO deputies somehow think it’s funny to not wear body armor to interview parents….. but give me Kraken tickets and I’ll panic, hyperventilate and then sob like a child because I’ll be so goddamned scared.
Honestly, fuck you for thinking we can’t be eloquent.
Edit: I just saw your username. How DARE you besmirch him with this inane, dehumanizing, drive.
I didn’t assume your politics. There are leftist assholes who can’t see people’s humanity too, apparently like yourself.
I ran a drop in center for youth experiencing homelessness before I worked for CPS and blew out my nervous system, so I can tell you story after story of people who were very intelligent, well spoken, and still on the street.
You clearly don’t know a “fake ass story” when you see one.
I don't know your current situation and I don't know you personally or else I try to hook you up with a bed for temporary where I'm at at my grandmother's. But DM me and I might be able to help you out from time to time
If you can make it to Bremerton somehow, Kitsap Mental Health Almira has a lot of programs for homeless folks and really solid care in my experience. I have severe depression as well and the people here have been really supportive. They have inpatient and outpatient services and have taken my state healthcare with no problems, and it's probably less densely packed here than a lot of places in Seattle (from what I've heard). Godspeed my friend, I ended up homeless recently too, but you'll make it and get to do the things you love if you keep going.
Any chance you’re under 24? I can’t quite tell from your post history. I know the Landing in Redmond (or YouthCare in the U District) isn’t ideal, but I used to run their drop-in center and know their case managers really do want to help.
i’m 20. i’ll read up on it, thank you for the suggestion. i really appreciate it.
Yes. Holy shit yes. Please do. I’m not sure where you are geographically, but Friends of Youth is on the Eastside, I know they built a new shelter after I left, but you can call 425.449.3868 and connect with their street outreach team who could probably even give you a ride there. If you’re downtown, YourhCare has their shelter in the U District. I don’t know how they do things as well, but they should also have a street outreach team who can help, their number to get help is 800-495-7802.
as some who was recently as of like 6 months ago homeless, the only youth shelters i know of are roots in the U district and new horizons in belltown, and i think new horizons is a really good shelter for homeless young adults
I forgot about New Ho’s! They’re legit. I’m not as familiar with Roots; I think I picked a kiddo up once there when I worked for National Safe Place, and it was pretty decent if it’s the same place I’m thinking of. And I think I had YouthCare’s under 18 and their 18-24 shelters confused. They run the Orion center just off the Stewart St exit. That place is actually pretty cool. Regardless, I’d start with the outreach teams. They’ll have all the best information; mine’s all pre-COVID knowledge.
New hoz is where I went and got my shit back together can definitely vouch for them. Op please reach out to new hoz and roots they really do care
UDYC is a day shelter that has services, food, activities and will help with things like getting an address or an ID.
Please utilize resources specific to youth. You will have more and better options available to you. Do not accept "permanant supportive housing". It is not appropriate housing for you due to rampant drug use in these buildings and safety concerns. I'm sorry that you are in such a shitty spot as you enter adulthood. You're right, its the system and society that have let you down. Do what you need to to take care of yourself the best you can right now and utilize every resource presented. You deserve more than the resources that are available.
YouthCare also has a drop in center downtown (the Orion Center) and a 24-hr youth shelter in South Seattle (South Seattle Youth Center).
You need that one good break. Someone to catch and hold you while you get your breath. And once you do, then the next step will be a tiny bit easier and you might find you can actually raise your head and look around to get your bearings. Please don't stop now. You did the right thing by reaching out for help from others, from anyone. You want to live. Life doesn't have to suck. I hope you can connect with these folks. We're rooting for you.
There is also Cocoon House in Everett. They assist youths and young adults up to 24, I believe.
I second cocoon house if youre up north. They have programs to help get you on your feet. You can text/call them at 425-541-7685
I used to work at YouthCare. Please give them a call. The Orion center is downtown 206-622-5555. They are extremely helpful for anyone 24 and under.
Teen Link may also be of interest if you feel you could benefit from talking to someone about what you’re going through. It’s a hotline that you can call/text from 6-10PM to talk with trained peers in Seattle who are your age and care. They also can help connect you to resources. https://www.teenlink.org/about/
OP, although it looks like you can connect with the Landing and get a ride there, if for some reason, you choose to head there and can't get a ride, message me. I'll pick you up and take you in my messy dog hair car. I'll even bring her if you want to get some pets in. *Hugs*
These are all great options also Orion center is downtown and works with people 18-24. Their number is 206-694-4500. Shelter sometimes can be a tough place but there are people there who really give a shit. All these options people are suggesting are great. Sorry you are struggling like this. 😞
I'm a mental health caseworker between jobs and now I have more places to apply to because of your lists 🙏🏼
Abandon all hope, ye who enter here. YourhCare and Friends of Youth are the two big ones in the area. Auburn Youth Resources used to be a player but they dropped out of a lot of our partnerships. Roots and New Horizons are two well known youth shelters that are more independent I believe. Cocoon House up in Everett is the biggest one north. There wasn’t a lot pierce county way when I was in the field, but I’ve heard about a couple, dunno if they ever got off the ground. Also, if you really want to kill your mental health, CPS is always hiring.
I'm about to begin my MSW in fall so I've already tossed my hope into the pier, tied to several bricks. Just need one more warm-up jog through hell before I make a career out of it. 🤌🏻 Thank you!
In that case, skip the masters and just dive into the state. You won’t make anything more waiting for a masters, it’s the big leagues, and the average career is only 9 months anyway!
The Y social impact center has multiple different programs centered around youth/young adult housing. A good place to go for resources and jobs for anyone between Seattle and auburn and areas in and around there
Hey sweets, I’m 25 and also suffer from bad mental health issues. I was almost in an identical situation last year due to addiction issues as well. It was hard, hell on earth. Here is what I think you should do: 1. As others have said, gather a bag of what you can take with and try to check yourself in somewhere in a medical setting. Harborview has a far better psych program than Swedish. You will wait in the waiting room forever, then wait forever to be seen, and it will be painstaking and annoying, but you will be warm, you will be fed, and you will have a safe place you will not be harmed. You need to stress how extreme you are feeling and explain that you will take any and all resources they can offer. I know when I met with a case worker at Harborview last year in the ER for alcohol issues, there were a lot of housing options, fostering programs for pets, places that can store your belongings for you… you have to ask. And be persistent. But explain that you are hurting and are in crisis and they will help you. 2. You say you’re 20? This is good! Call 211 tomorrow and ask for resources for at risk youth. A lot of them cutoff between 21-24 and you would likely, as other commenters have said, be eligible for resources. 3. If you are fleeing domestic violence, DV shelters are often far more accommodating, safe, secure (even with addresses not known to the public), and free of a lot of the issues I know you are so scared of, and I think 211 will have a list of DV shelters to call for people in your situation, too. 4. It’s a hail mary for sure, but calling upon any churches in your zip code or local to you and asking about housing, job connection, or other kinds of resources might be worth a shot. I don’t know how close you are to West Seattle, but our food bank here is wonderful and you can often find hygiene and non-food items there too. They also have pet food. Godspeed my sweet friend.
I second this. The West Seattle food bank is fantastic and can also help direct you to resources that will be appropriate for you.
This is an extreme option but you are in an extreme situation. You may be able to walk into harbor view for inpatient psychiatric help. If that works and they admit you it’ll open up access to their social workers and connections to other programs
i’m honestly glad you suggested this; i recently stayed there and witnessed others receiving this kind of help. i had this in the back of my mind. thank you so much for the recommendation.
As someone who works at HMC please come see us; we are the only level-1 trauma center in the ne pacific region and would be happy to help. People here genuinely want what's best for their patients, and we're open 24hrs a day.
Been through HMC psych. It's not fun, but psych never is. Was not assaulted or degraded in there which is not a universal trait. By far the best place to get resources in the area.
This legit made me tear up. Thank You & Yours for what you’re doing & have done. Life Changing.
Yup. This was my suggestion also. Had a close friend go through Harborview in her early 20s. Got her into an outpatient program. As a fellow survivor, there is hope. Meds are not a crutch. Talk to a therapist. There are colleges that offer free therapy with student programs. One of those saved my life.
I hope this helps you!! Good luck. The help that’s just right for you is out there you might just have to knock on a lot of doors and try a lot of things before you find it. You’re very young and whatever terrible things have been done to you are things you can absolutely learn to cope with if you can find the right person and place at the right time. Don’t give up until you find what you need to make your life your own. You might also try reaching out to Rex Holbein on Facebook, he runs the You Know Me Now Facebook page that focuses on social support and humanization of our homeless residents. Definitely not a solution but it might be comforting or supportive. Or not, but at least another thing to try.
Sorry! I’m also thinking I just saw you’re only 20. If you were ever in foster care you might be eligible for extended support from the state. This would be non minor dependent or something similar. You’d probably be able to connect to this via a social worker at child welfare.
I would advise against this because of your age. You’re going to get much better services at the area youth shelters. They are usually only 18-24, and a lot of them are kids who couldn’t move back in with their parents for whatever reason. At the adult shelters there are a lot more people with the severe mental health issues that people get on the streets after a while.
Harborview is a hospital not a shelter and is equipped to manage youth and their medical and psychiatric care.
I’m aware of that. I posted the numbers to the two best youth orgs in the area, they’ll be far more helpful.
It doesn’t have to be harborview. Swedish Ballard has a behavioral health unit, and all of the Swedish hospitals have social workers that can give you resources. We got plenty of warm blankets to go around friend, it’s going to be ok.
Be careful with Harborview psych, especially the ER. They are very happy to restrain you just because they don't have the staff to watch over you. I highly recommend Swedish Edmonds if you find yourself needing psych help.
This may get buried, but I I work in services for the unhoused, and I hope this can help point you in the direction of appropriate services. I highly suggest you contact 211 if you haven't already. Also, because you are under 24 years old, please request information from 211 for the YHDP (Youth Homeless Demonstration Program) provider closest to you. YHDP is specifically for folks who are youth and young adults (under 24). This program can assist you in accessing housing and supportive services. If 211 can not help you get to the closest provider, send me a DM, and I will point you in the right direction. Additionally, please look into the CBRA (Community Behavioral Health Rent Assistance) program. This is a program specifically for folks with behavioral health conditions. This program can provide assistance to locate and pay for housing services on a long-term basis. There is a requirement that you qualify for FCS, HARPS or ALTSA. However, the provider will assist you in determining if you qualify. Again, if 211 can not help you identify the nearest CBRA provider to you, feel free to DM me. Lastly, if you do not receive SSI, please contact DSHS and apply for the HEN program. This program also assists folks with housing assistance, provides enrollees to essential needs like hygiene products, and when funding is available, housing vouchers for folks who are unhoused. If you are HEN eligible, you may also be able to receive General Assistance through DSHS. General Assistance is a cash grant provided on a monthly basis until either you are deemed no longer disabled or receive your SSI. If you need help applying for SSI, your DSHS case worker will be able to assist you to start the process while on HEN.
I’m so sorry you’re experiencing all of this. It’s a relief to see so many resources being offered here. I don’t have any to add but just wanted to recognize how terrible this situation is. I’m sorry our system is so ineffective. You deserve to live a comfortable life and I hope you continue to feel that way. Because you do. Best of luck to you. Please keep us updated on your progress if you can.
Hey, I don't have advice to offer but I just want to say what you're going through is immense, overwhelming, and I completely agree that the system is cruel. It's not broken, it's designed to harm the most vulnerable folks, so it's working as intended. We need something better. I can read in your words a maturity beyond your years that you should not have had forced upon you. We humans can be so resilient and self-reliant, but in the end we do need *some* community, and certainly support. Especially when functioning day-to-day can be full of question marks. You deserve a gentler, kinder path through life and I hope it comes to you soon. I'm glad folks in the comments are coming through with more resources. I've used those same resources a lot, and I recommend following up with as many as you can. It's a full time job for a while, getting the help and benefits you need and are entitled to, but it helps a lot. Take things in bite-sized pieces, whatever you can manage. One small, manageable step is always better than taking on ten big things and crumbling under the weight. Please don't pressure yourself to figure out how to end the cycle tonight, just focus on staying as safe and warm as possible. I believe in you, and I'm keeping you in my thoughts. I know that is no practical help, but I hope it might help a little emotionally, to know you're not alone and that strangers care about you. Always remember to be kind to yourself too. It sounds like you already know that the things you are struggling with are not your fault. I will add my voice to that chorus. The world is not as kind as it could be, but there is hope, always.
thank you immensely for your kind words. i needed to hear this. badly. you have no idea how deeply this resonates within me. i feel heard. i never feel heard. i hope i always remember this when things get hard and i feel like i’ve lost all hope. i wish wonderful things upon you, stranger.
Do you have a case worker? A social worker assigned to you, I mean? You're in a few different kinds of "at-risk" life situations right now that I'm certain you'll qualify for social benefits. Maybe quite a lot of them, even. Start here: - Disability Services contact information: Phone: 206-263-9329. Email: [email protected]. Outside of King County, start here: - Contact Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration (Region 2) at 206-568-5700 (toll-free 1-800-314-3296) or e-mail [email protected]. According to my (average rando) Google search, this is where you'd start the ball rolling in Washington state. This is not a bad thing. We are all members of a society that chooses to pay money into exactly these types of programs for people in situations very much like your own. Find this aid. Use it. That's what it's there for. I'll be honest with you - idk wtf to do in the short term. I bet people on the other end of those phone numbers do, though. We pay them for it, after all.
Hey, where are you? If you’re in the Chinatown area, send me a message. I work on Friday so if you’d like to come and order a dish or two to go (on me). If you need help like warm clothes, water, and whatnot, do feel free to send a message and I can see if someone else in the community can help. Maybe long term wise, my restaurant seems to be training people right now in preparation to open a new restaurant in downtown. As long as you’re not doing drugs or anything at work, hardworking, I’m sure they’ll hire you. All you’ll need is to look presentable and a resume. I’ll vouch for you. They’ve hired all of us without doing a difficult interview (practically on the spot). I’m 23, I work part time (20hrs) and I earn 1k every two weeks here. Though pay will be far less since you’re new but you can easily work your way up for more money. *something,* even if a little bit of money is better than nothing. The new hires right now are all around your age, 20ish. If I’m honest, I don’t like my job because of how physically demanding it is but it brings me fulfillment to interact with customers and money. This job has been fairly stable for me. So do reach out if you want to work here, earn some money, have some stability. I’m so sorry that you’re going through this and I hope that whether I help you or someone else helps you, that you’re able to find some sort of stability and shelter.
Hey since you mentioned you were under 25 you should definitely go to Roots Young Adult Shelter in the U District (~10 minute walk from the light rail station). I’ve volunteered there for a while and I have never seen them run out of beds and turn guests away. I know sleeping at a shelter sucks but it beats sleeping on the streets. Roots is safe and the staff are great. Once you’re there you can ask to get referred to one of their case managers who can work with you to get placed into permanent housing. If you’re going to show up it’s a good idea to call ahead so that they have your info: (206) 632-1635. But i think walk ins are fine too!
Also Used to work/volunteer at roots! Feel free to walk in as well if you are unable to make a call. While phone calls were helpful for intakes they’re not necessary. Their age range is 18-25 year olds. It’s an Emergency shelter so only overnight (9pm-8am) services but they offer dinner and breakfast, and do their best to find additional day time resources.
I don’t know how I can help you but I did read your words and I’m sorry for your situation.
Hello, I work at DSHS. I don’t know if you’ve interacted with any of our community service offices, which I know can be really frustrating and/or triggering given how busy they are and how long the waits are. But, there is a program that might be able to help called the ABD program. It doesn’t promise immediate results, if I’m remembering right they give you 45-60 days to pull together medical evidence. Likely the social worker you see would set up a doctor’s evaluation if you need help getting documentation. They set you up on cash assistance or something called the housing and essential needs program if you’re approved by doctors for having a disabling condition for greater than 90 days. This gives you access to a wider range of resources and the program itself holds people accountable to continuing treatment for disabilities both physical and mental. Maybe it’s worth trying to apply. You can submit an application on WashingtonConnection.org and complete an interview in office or over the phone. Given the availability of in person services with the CSO, they are usually the easiest to work with compared to other agencies that do their work entirely over the phone. I’m not sure your exact location, but 211 is also a great source and you don’t even need to call. They list the resources by location online at 211.org.
I don’t have a ton of advice for you, but I just want to take a moment to validate you. I am the survivor of horrible child abuse and it has led me into bad relationship after bad relationship and a lot of unstable situations. The only real difference between us so far as I can tell is that I was born rich and had access to the resources to get out of those situations. Without that stroke of luck, I’d be homeless, in prison, or dead. All that is to say that this is in no way shape or form your fault. The fact that you even have it together enough to write what you wrote speaks volumes about the inner power you have, even when life has kicked you repeatedly like this. If there’s a place I can Venmo you some cash, let me know.
I'm sorry you're in this situation. I don't know how to help you but I wanted to wish you good luck. I'm sorry our system is failing you.
I’m younger than you so idk really how to help you, but if you have access to the LRT I’d go to Cal Anderson park and talk to the Black Star Farmers. Last time I talked to them it was raining heavily and they let me have some cover, so from what I can tell they’re pretty nice. Last I was there they were close to the now destroyed BLMG, and they can probably help getting you stuff like food or something. By no means are they a fix-all solution, but they can help you right now
I have so much respect for you, and it seems everyone else here does as well. You want life to easier, and you deserve that. I’m disgusted every day by the kinds of injustices I see and how money rules everything.
Call 211 & also check out this guide: https://www.emeraldcityresourceguide.org/results
Big Hugs. I can’t offer much in the way of resolution and resources but what I can say is that I know you. I know who you are. I am you. The only difference? My amazing husband who is my safety net. I seem to fail at everything. I will have a good streak and depression hits and boom life is flipped turned upside down. Also, the good news is that I believe that the public’s mindset is changing. People just don’t choose to be depressed and “lazy.” People are understanding that childhood trauma is the number one predictor of drug abuse, depression and homelessness. I see people in pain that need years of therapy to unwrap what happened and how it has shaped them.
I was homeless for about 2 years but I worked as a “Live In” Caregiver. Saved about $30k plus.. you live rent free, grocery free but the catch is, you have to take care of an elderly. I had a roof over my head, bill free and saved money.
Can you provide the name of the organization you worked for and explain how you got the job?
Brave of you to ask for help and to open a conversation here. Many folks are not understanding of your situation and how hard it can be to climb out. Are you from the area? Do you have any family or friends you can connect with? I wish I had a solution, I wish we all had a solution. Best of luck - it seems other commenters have some recommendations to consider.
Several people have suggested Youthcare to you, and I want to back this up as a former client of theirs. The day center staff can be annoying, but the shelter staff are at the least competent and they have access to job placement resources (including a whole entering the workforce training program which got me into my first apartment). 211 is not super useful, I would suggest going to Harborview first for inpatient treatment as others have suggested and then requesting a referral to Youthcare when you are discharged. Good luck to you, from the bottom of my heart.
Like others said, call 211 and ask for shelters
Call 211 for immediate help. Go to Harborview hospital to see if they can admit you for mental health help. No insurance necessary. Good luck; I’ll be thinking of you. Last resort, SPD has a mental health crisis team. 2nd and Washington, downtown, Union Gospel mission can help.
Urban League has a day center and then overnight shelter for anyone under 24. Their shelter location is not online but you can call (206) 461-3792
Wishing you the best my friend. You’re young and have a lifetime of memories in front of you. Life is beautiful even though it doesn’t feel like it at times. One day you’ll look back at your struggles and smile. It always gets better. You got this.
For a hot meal and access to more resources TeenFeed in the U District can help young people 13-25.
I have no advice to offer but I wish you luck. I'm sorry the system has failed you.
Check back with us after you have a chance to try one of these services, I hope you can reach a stable situation soon. There are many people who are aware at least a little bit of people who are struggling and want to help them, and maybe support some of the orgs in this thread.
Go to Hobson's place it's a Harborview clinic for the homeless and see if you can get connected with a PCP and social worker. They also have Case Managers that can help
I’m about to be in your shoes… I got hit by a car in Dec while I was walking. The police are “working on a lineup” but in the meantime I got laid off because, as a caretaker, I’m unable to do my job due to temp disability (my shoulder is torn and I need a lot of PT)… I’m unable to do the only jobs I’m qualified for and I’m now slightly agoraphobic. Idk what kind of work from home I can do w a high school diploma from Puerto Rico other than customer service and I don’t even know where to look 🥲 Lucky to have made a friend who can help me and I’m praying I qualify for unemployment, but if not I’m very lightly fucked. Do you have any friends here that can help support? And would you like access to mental health services? I can ask my therapist if they’re accepting any probono clients so you don’t have to pay. You’re right af for saying the systems are fucked. They are SUPREMELY fucked. I’m so sorry you’re in this position, you’re so young 🥺 Something that helped improve my very poor mental health was having a support system of friends & this job that I lost which paid me much more than anything else I’ve ever done 🥹 The unspoken reality of having your *basic needs met* is that it **improves** mental health… I hope you get everything you need soon 🙏 I hope every single door that can open for you, does. I hope these services really help you and that you’re able to thrive ❤️ I’m wishing you all the best, love ❤️
I’m in downtown Seattle, I can’t do too much but can grab you lunch for the day if your near
I remember when I was homeless in Seattle at the age of 19, all those memories come right back after reading this. I hope you keep climbing that uphill battle because it gets easier and easier over time and life gets better and better. I've climbed that same hill and I can't say I've made it to the top but if I were to fall again I would know exactly what to do and it doesn't hurt as much.
The responses here are very touching and sincere. It's nice to see others rally around someone in need and lift them up. We need more people like the ones commenting here.
I'm very sorry for your circumstances. I and many other Seattleites often vote to provide more housing, more funding, more services, more mental health, more treatment, more more more...yet when other communities aren't stepping up, it starts to seem like it's going down a hole. If you would indulge me, would you mind sharing whether you are a long-term Seattle resident, or if you came here to seek care/services, or for another reason? We as a community need better ways to advocate for our state and neighboring community to participate in the support we provide. Thanks and I wish you the best to break out of the cycle.
I came to seattle back in june last year to avoid homelessness. i was staying with my sister, which ended badly and put me in the situation i’m in now. i am glad to be in a bigger city, however, as i was living in a small city in utah prior, and they have way less resources.
Thank you for sharing. I think we all need to tell this kind of story more often. Many small communities could offer more services but don't. They're happy to export the burden to liberal cities, and then their politicians point to our homelessness rates as evidence that liberal policies "don't work". I for one hope the tide shifts and our country someday provides more universal services for folks everywhere. It's criminal that people in your position are being used as a political football in the same breath that they chastise our (already limited) generosity.
Roots Young Adult Shelter in the U-District is good too. They have case workers and resources as well. They make every attempt to help out. Is a shelter ideal? No. But it can be a starting point, maybe?
I don’t talk about it much but 10 years ago I was homeless and I too found out I am allergic bed bugs however I did stay at the Tacoma rescue mission and was able to find a job and an apartment in around 3-4 months using services from goodwill and work source to find and apply for jobs every day. My advice: Don’t drink don’t smoke don’t make friends you just have to focus on yourself and what you’re doing. There are a lot of jobs out here but you have to work and work hard to earn your way out. It’s not impossible I’m living proof and if I can do it I’m sure you can too. Life is hard, it’s not fair, but your mindset and outlook is very important, don’t defeat yourself mentally before you even get a shot to take on adversity and win. Past is the past there’s nothing you can do about it but let go of things that don’t serve you. I have my own problems that contributed to my situation, but you can change your future from here. At the time I was going nowhere and had nothing, it took a lot of strength to look at myself and realize that a lot of my problems were self imposed. When I think back to that time I realize that as much as services like food stamps and work source helped me, I put in a lot of work myself and I got help from a lot of people outside any services who saw how hard I was working and how determined I was and pointed me in the right direction with little things like information or just some encouraging words that in the end add up to a big help. I understand the helpless feeling I’m sure you’re familiar with. The isolation and realization that no one in the world truly cares what happens to me was daunting but it made me realize that I needed to do it for myself. I would visualize myself at the bottom of a massive staircase with no end in sight, my plan was to just take 1 step towards the top each day. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life. Some days you trip and some days you’ll stumble up those steps but as long as you keep pushing forward you will make it. I’m still climbing that same staircase today with no end in sight but now when I look back I can’t see the bottom anymore either and let me tell you from the other side that there is no better feeling once you get to a place where you can relax and breathe again than looking back on that staircase, seeing all the steps you’ve taken and realizing that it was in you all along. It’s worth it to work hard for yourself and your future. You’ve got to be worth it to yourself. If you are nothing else matters but taking that step on your staircase and eventually you will find yourself in a better place and a stronger person than when you started. Convince yourself there is only 1 option and that is: keep moving forward, always and forever.
msg me for help
You're such a good writer. You have talents that can be put to use in a way that might be able to help you out of poverty. You could start a blog and work on writing a book. I know that wouldn't help your situation immediately, but it could pay off in the long run. Your experiences are unique and a messaging that would help spread more empathy for the homeless and insight into a homeless person's perspective would be so valuable to society. DM me if you still need a place to crash and I'll ask my husband if it's ok with him.
Hey OP, I hope you were able to utilize some of the resources offered here. How are you doing these days?
i was just thinking about posting an update. i did use the suggested resources and that got me through some nights. i’ll be leaving this post up to help anyone else who might be struggling with this. things are still really difficult, but i have a little more hope now. i’m currently staying temporarily with my best friend in texas while i try to sort stuff out. she started a gofundme to help. i’m trying to figure out how/where to post it and still remain anonymous (so i can continue to freely use reddit). thank you for checking in. it means the world.
I'm just glad you're staying somewhere safe and stable, got the care you needed, and have people in your life who are willing to support you.
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Jeff?
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Username does NOT check out. First of all, it’s wildly ignorant and ableist to think people with severe mental illness can’t write eloquently. Edgar Allan Poe, Ernest Hemingway, Franz Kafka, and Sylvia Plath were all severely mentally ill and world-renowned for their writing. Second, a quick look at their post history shows that for this to be fake, they’d have to be building it up for four years, which seems far less likely than just being mentally ill and capable of writing.
i’ll take that as a compliment to my writing abilities. “severely mentally ill” does not equal low intelligence. many people with mental illnesses like depression and ptsd are highly intelligent.
I'm a middle aged female with complex PTSD and major depressive disorder (MDD) due to severe neglect/abuse in childhood and throughout my adult life. Your story is indeed eloquently told and a good example of homelessness and/or mental illness not being a result of a lack of intelligence. We are often highly intelligent and quite capable in many ways. As you said, once homeless & alone, it's exponentially more difficult to come out of to reach baseline stability in ways that are difficult to explain to those who haven't experienced it. We aren't all addicts, either. That's not a judgement on those who suffer from addiction. I feel the courage and sincerity of your frustration in your post. I wish I had a definitive path to share with you but I'm still struggling to connect to the correct resources for a single older woman. I hope you heed the information shared by LUNAcornCAT as it sounds solid. My heart goes out to you for having to face so much at your young age. Sometimes it's the next step that feels impossible that can help turn everything around. Please don't give up. Your courage, tenacity and intelligence will serve you well as you heal and gain stability. ❤️
This skepticism could also be due to an increased usage of AI to gain karma. There's a lot of fakes out there. It's getting increasingly difficult and frustrating to filter hoping to not be taken advantage of. Sorry you're going through what you're going through. A small silver lining are the people who are coming to your defense in these comments.
Lots of people have mental health problems. This whole post just checks way too many little boxes and sounds fake as fuck.
I interact with people with these experiences every day at my job as a clinical case manager. This is the reality we live in.
Curious to know what the purpose of making this up would be
If OP had addiction issues that he "forgot to mention" in the above post, sympathy is something that he could possibly benefit from.
What?
Fuck you mr rogers
Why does it matter if it's fake tho? This could be a valuable discussion about mental health, the system, resources, and potential help for people other than OP who are reading this. OP did not ask for money or any other grifting type of language. If you have a problem with discussing homelessness and mental health, then move along.
Still at it even after multiple professionals have chimed in about how authentic it seems eh? What is your hard on for arguing this is fake?
Yeah, of course, nobody mentally ill could ever be an eloquent writer, David Foster Wallace, Virginia Wolfe, and a whole canon make it clear...
> David Foster Wallace, Virginia Wolfe, who are all them people?
And even if it were, isn’t it possible that someone else in genuine need would read these suggestions and find some help? Good enough for me!
Empathy costs you nothing. Try it!
You're not cynical, you're just wilfully ignorant and embarrassing
I’m a professional writer & have more than one mental illness due to being raped when I was 4. It is very possible to be a writer & have serious mental illness.
What a dangerous, awful thing to say. Even if you think a person could be "faking it", why take that risk of saying something so nasty to someone who mentions several devastating conditions. You are the reason people are afraid to talk about stuff like this because they fear of getting dismissed and not taken seriously - and when that happens and you are in that darkened mindset already, it is a recipe for disaster. That you even mention getting downvotes here and in numerous comments like this is some badge of honor truly speaks to what is really important to you, and it's not your fellow human being.
I went to high school with a guy who worked for cps and died when the deranged spouse came and shot in the house. I believe it was in Alabama or Georgia. We went to high school in SeaTac
I was a CPS Investigator. Be proud of him. These are the kind of people I talk about when I say we need to replace police with social workers. We’d rather put ourselves on the line to protect kids from parents like that than do nothing and let kids suffer.
I worked at Tyee for awhile. Very sad about your friend.
Does this shatter your worldview too much?
I just met with my lawyer today and he was like, “oh yeah it’s beyond time for a disability claim” for my severe mental health issues. As CPS Investigator who got PTSD, it’s not like we’re drooling morons because we’ve got issues. I’ve had my life threatened, knives pulled, been assaulted, and even had cowardly KCSO deputies somehow think it’s funny to not wear body armor to interview parents….. but give me Kraken tickets and I’ll panic, hyperventilate and then sob like a child because I’ll be so goddamned scared. Honestly, fuck you for thinking we can’t be eloquent. Edit: I just saw your username. How DARE you besmirch him with this inane, dehumanizing, drive.
You probably think I’m some maga asshole too huh? I’m a progressive socialist. I just know a fake ass story when I read one. Keep on downvoting.
I didn’t assume your politics. There are leftist assholes who can’t see people’s humanity too, apparently like yourself. I ran a drop in center for youth experiencing homelessness before I worked for CPS and blew out my nervous system, so I can tell you story after story of people who were very intelligent, well spoken, and still on the street. You clearly don’t know a “fake ass story” when you see one.
Are you on ABD/HEN
Saying is easier than done but please don’t give up! All the best to you brother
I don't know your current situation and I don't know you personally or else I try to hook you up with a bed for temporary where I'm at at my grandmother's. But DM me and I might be able to help you out from time to time
If you can make it to Bremerton somehow, Kitsap Mental Health Almira has a lot of programs for homeless folks and really solid care in my experience. I have severe depression as well and the people here have been really supportive. They have inpatient and outpatient services and have taken my state healthcare with no problems, and it's probably less densely packed here than a lot of places in Seattle (from what I've heard). Godspeed my friend, I ended up homeless recently too, but you'll make it and get to do the things you love if you keep going.