Rebecca had built a life for herself. She had a promising career in the NHS and a flat in London. But in January 2023, Rebecca’s mental health took a turn for the worse, and she faced homelessness. Our supported accommodation service stepped in and has been supporting Rebecca since. Now, she’s rebuilding herself to live independently, finding strength in running.
“I was a Physician Associate. I supported doctors in a GP surgery, managing the mental health caseload. But I became very ill with paranoia. I struggled with self-harm, was sectioned, and had to leave my job. I felt completely out of control.
“While I was in the hospital, I lost my home as I couldn’t afford the rent without working. The fear of homelessness, on top of my mental health problems, was terrifying. I didn’t know what I would do next.”
“I’ve been sectioned before, but this last time was the hardest. I had been hospital-free for five years, so going back was a massive setback for me. I was far from my family and in an unfamiliar ward. It was one of the lowest points in my life.”
Overcoming challenges
After a six-month hospital stay, Rebecca moved into our supported accommodation. The transition wasn’t easy, but it was a crucial step in her recovery.
“I was scared at first. I didn’t know what to expect. But when I arrived, the staff were so friendly and had set up my room beautifully. My fears quickly disappeared, and I realised it was the best decision I could have made.
My support has been excellent. The staff have been there for me every step of the way. I have wobbles with my mental health, and I've struggled to ask for help in the past, but I'm starting to rebuild myself. I've learnt how to share my feelings when I struggle. It's the first time I can do this.
“It’s been a journey with ups and downs, but I always know I have someone in my corner. While in the hospital recently, the staff called me every day. My Support Worker, Robert, even brought Scrabble to play with me. It’s my favourite.”
Running towards recovery
Despite the challenges, Rebecca has found ways to regain control of her life. Running and walking have been key, and she is now taking on a challenge to support our work!
“Running and walking has helped massively with my mental health. A challenge keeps me moving forward and with something to aspire towards. Neil, one of the staff members at the house, runs with me; we keep each other motivated.
“I’m running a 10K for Single Homeless Project next month to give back to the people who’ve helped me so much. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them, and this is a small way to show my appreciation.”
Giving back
Beyond running, Rebecca wants to keep moving forward in other parts of life. Driven by the support she’s had, Rebecca’s hoping to live on her own again and get back into a mental health role. She wants to use her lived experience as an asset to support others.
“I want to get back to being independent. I’m not ready yet, but I know I have good people around me to help me get there.
“My previous experience with the mental health system makes me want to work in the sector again. I want to use my experience and understanding to help and empathise with others going through what I did.”
“I’ve started volunteering with Mind as a Suicide Prevention Champion. It’s a small step, but I’m passionate about it. It has helped me realise that the charity sector might be the route for me.”
Rebecca went from having a home and a successful job in the NHS to the lowest point in her life. Her story shows how closely mental health problems and homelessness can be linked.
We believe everyone deserves the space, time, and support to heal from trauma.
Our teams work with clients to build trust and coping strategies, helping them to achieve their goals.
Homelessness can happen to anyone, but with the right support, it can be ended.
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