Are there ways to get help when therapy isn't an option?

@SergeantQueen, I’m so sorry for your troubles. Ordinary life can be stressful enough sometimes without the extra strain that present circumstances place on it. Not being able to turn to the usual social and professional support systems is really rough on some of us.

If there are substance use issues in this picture, you might find a good resource in AA and/or Al-Anon. Zoom meetings aren’t as satisfying as gathering in a room, where eye contact and handshakes and hugs come with the group support; but on the other hand, you can visit online meetings all over, day or night, and without even having to put your shoes on.

I know a meeting that used to be in-person in Silicon Valley but now, on Zoom, has some regular attendees not only around the state but also in Georgia and Arizona.

I am so sorry to hear about your l difficulties. Thank you for asking this question.

Your school will have some kind of counseling center. Call them. Go ahead and call them now even though school is not yet in session. They will be able to help.

Oh, and there are various community agencies and hotlines that can give referrals. And if there was no automatic follow-up from your hospital stay, you could call them and ask.

I know how heavy the phone is. But pick it up. You can do this.

Maybe a nearby church you can walk to. That seems to help many people.
I always liked to visit the library when looking for guidance.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
800–273-8255

That’s always an option if you need to talk. Heartfelt best wishes to you. Things will get better.

Have you looked into support groups like DBSA? Any local chapters will probably be online because of the pandemic, but they ordinarily meet in person. They meet once a month.

Also perhaps try local peer ran support groups, like NAMI, National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. It’s all free of charge, they help you with paperwork or anything else, free computers/ wifi, clothes all kinds of magnificent programs at no charge.

If you just need someone to talk to or PM with, I’m available.

When my niece was in a similar situation, she discovered that her college had a great counseling program. They got her through some really rough times!!!

When I was in a somewhat similar situation, I struggled until I figured out how to do it on my own. No, it wasn’t easy, but it was satisfying as I navigated my way through feeling better. When I was growing up, it was NOT OK to go in for therapy. My dad always told me to pull myself up by my boot straps. Being a stubborn old cuss, I’d do it myself before I’d ask for help!!! Therapy is great for those who can afford it; but when strapped for funds, it seems out of reach. Others here have given you some really good advice. Personally, I’d start by checking into the counselors available through your college.

I’m with @YARNLADY. Even if you aren’t religious, any pastor worth his salt wouldn’t give a hoot about that if you came in and said you needed help. They typically aren’t psychologists, but are willing to work with you. They might even be able to arrange a ride if you need one to get to a real therapist.

@SergeantQueen You can look for free therapy with students finishing their masters psychology
degree, in a free clinic. You can ask a local social worker for help finding one. You could also ask for a Go Fund Me account. When you start one I will chip in the first $50. Canadian.

Before you go looking for cures in other places, look to yourself. You have to want to do better to get better.

I am with @Hawaii_Jake Your school should have free counseling. I would look into that.

I think you’ll find that most clergy are compassionate enough to help without making religion the focus if you express that wish.