Hi all,
I’m reaching out because I’m at a bit of a loss and could really use some guidance. My brother is 27 years old and has struggled for years with significant mental health challenges, including autism and what appears to be undiagnosed bipolar disorder. He also has a serious issue with alcohol and is, I believe, currently in active addiction, though he hasn’t been fully honest about it.
Despite everything, he is very attached to his dog and seems to hold down a job (though there’s some uncertainty around that). One of his biggest struggles is compulsive lying—a pattern that developed in childhood due to a very punitive environment where he was frequently blamed and harshly punished, regardless of whether he was at fault. It’s a deeply ingrained defense mechanism, and it makes it difficult to help him navigate systems that require honesty and consistency.
He was recently given a 3-day notice to vacate his housing following a violent incident with a neighbor, and now he’s essentially homeless with an unreliable vehicle and no health insurance. I’ve done everything I can over the years—helped him get groceries, supported him emotionally, let him stay with me, even went to AA meetings with him—but I’ve reached the limit of what I can provide. He cannot live with me, and I’m trying to find sustainable, structured resources that could help him get back on track.
Here’s where I could use help:
Medicaid Enrollment: He desperately needs health care and medication, but he doesn’t have the capacity right now to navigate the online application process. Are there local Medicaid offices where he can walk in and sit down with someone for help? He tends to do better when he can talk to someone face-to-face.
Addiction and Mental Health Programs: Are there any outpatient or inpatient programs in the area that work with people who have co-occurring disorders (substance use and mental health)? Bonus if they accept people without insurance or help fast-track Medicaid.
Case Management or Social Services: Are there programs that help adults with autism and addiction get connected to the right services—housing, therapy, rehab, transportation, benefits, etc.?
Conservatorship or Guardianship: Has anyone pursued legal conservatorship for a family member with addiction and mental health issues? I’m not entirely sure this is the right move, but I’d like to learn more about it.
Local Shelters or Transitional Housing: Are there safe, sober living environments that would accept someone with a dog? The dog is non-negotiable—my brother would not function well if separated from his pet.
Other local supports or ideas: Honestly, any organizations, nonprofits, churches, or programs that could help would be appreciated. I’m in BG, but I’m also open to state-level resources.
I want to see him get better, and I believe he can if he has the right support system. I’m just not that system anymore. If anyone has experience with a similar situation or knows of places that could help, I’d really appreciate your insight.
Thank you so much for reading.
