Nathan had been living at home with his dad throughout a long period of drug dependence and mental health issues. When Nathan’s dad asked him to move out, he was devastated. At 31, he had never left the family home, and now, he had nowhere to turn. It was Nathan’s brother who encouraged him to reach out to DENS for support.
This was a “very scary and an emotional time” for Nathan, but DENS “gratefully opened the doors” for him. After staying in Crash Pad emergency accommodation for a few weeks, Nathan was given a room at The Elms hostel.
Around this time, he stopped using drugs. This made adjusting to life at the hostel an even greater challenge, but he appreciated the supportive nature of staff and the opportunity to establish a routine and structure to his life.
While at The Elms, Nathan enjoyed taking part in a Life Skills cookery course and volunteering with gardening and DIY activities – but it was his experience with the Therapy Centre that proved truly life changing.
After a few friendly chats with DENS’ Therapy Lead, he opened up about his struggles, including the PTSD and manic episodes he had been experiencing. Shortly after, a slot for regular sessions became available, and from there, he “didn’t look back.”
Nathan had tried private therapy before, but he didn’t enjoy the experience. Therapy at DENS felt completely different. In his new therapist, he found someone “amazing”, where nothing could shock her. A real turning point in trust came when she disclosed some of her own experiences, which made him feel understood and less alone.
After several months of great progress, DENS supported Nathan into his own flat, and he felt ready to take a break from therapy. Unfortunately, he relapsed shortly after. Nathan knew he needed therapy to get his life back on track.
He reached out to the DENS Therapy Lead to see if there was any chance he could return, but he didn’t think this would be possible. He was surprised and thrilled to be welcomed back to the service.
Nathan was grateful that he could immediately re-access this support for free, without the long waiting lists that are typically found at other services. Most importantly, he could continue building on the strong relationship with his therapist.
With a renewed focus, Nathan stopped using drugs – and he remains abstinent to this day. He has learned to regulate his emotions and believes he no longer has PTSD. However, the way his life has transformed goes far beyond this.
Nathan credits everything he has now to his recovery and therapy. Stable work, living in his own flat with his partner, a baby on the way, savings in the bank and being able to go on holidays.
“I didn’t know this would ever be possible. It may seem like an ordinary life to some, but that once felt so far-fetched to me.”
Nathan continues to regularly visit The Elms for his therapy sessions and fellowship meetings. While he no longer has a Key Worker, he knows he could walk in any time and receive valuable help.
“The support of DENS is groundbreaking. There isn’t another place like it that I know of. It’s not just a place where you come to sleep. They genuinely try to help you in every aspect of your life.”
Reflecting on his journey with DENS, Nathan concluded, “I walked into this building a broken man. I was heavily depressed, didn’t know where to turn and they welcomed me with open arms. I’ve come from nothing to something.”
Please note: Nathan’s name, image and details of his story have been changed to protect his anonymity.
Story published 9th February 2026.