Can you foster with mental health problems

Can you foster with mental health problems?

1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health condition at least once in their lives, ranging from mild anxiety and depression to bipolar disorders. Some are treated with counselling and therapy, others with medication. None are necessarily an obstacle to becoming a foster parent with Orange Grove.

Many of our foster parents have experienced mental health conditions, yet they're still able to make an amazing difference in young people's lives. And we've found them to be an excellent support to those children in our care with their own mental health challenges.

Our primary consideration is that you’re able to provide a safe, secure and loving home for the children in your care and that the work of foster care – with all its stresses and challenges – won’t be detrimental to your own health and well-being. We need to be sure you’re able to carry out the role and responsibilities of a foster parent when you foster children.

We’ll talk about all of this during the assessment process. The things we take into consideration before making a decision include the nature and severity of your mental health condition, and how long you’ve lived with it, as well as any current treatments and medication.

As with all our foster parents, we’ll ask you to have a medical assessment with your own GP and our decision will be based entirely on your individual circumstances. Provided we’re sure your mental health won’t affect your own health or ability to care for a child, it won't prevent you from fostering and you have every chance of being approved during the application process.

Can I foster if I am on antidepressant

Can I foster if I'm on antidepressants?

Absolutely, being on antidepressants won't automatically stop you from fostering with Orange Grove.

As part of our assessment, we'll simply check that your mental health has reached a level of emotional stability so that you can provide a secure and predictable home to a vulnerable child.

If you've only just started using antidepressants, we may ask that you take a little bit of time to focus on your own mental health before applying, but we'll discuss this with you on an individual basis. 

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Frequently asked questions

Can you foster with mental health problems?

It's estimated that 1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in the UK. Mental health problems are experienced by many of us, and as an agency, we're here to support your individual needs.

Mental health problems, including the use of anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medication, won't stop you from fostering. As part of our assessment process, we'll explore how you manage your mental health, and ensure that you could provide a secure and predictable environment to a child in your care.

Will I need to have a medical to become a foster parent?

Yes, you'll need to complete a full medical with your GP as part of the fostering assessment process. This will cover both your physical and mental health.

It helps us to understand whether you can provide a safe and stable family environment to a child, and whether fostering is right for you in this moment in time.

Can I foster children with mental health problems?

Absolutely. In fact, it's estimated that around 45% of children and young people in foster care in the UK experience mental health difficulties. Often, this is due to the difficult past experiences they have faced.

Some of the most common mental health problems faced by young people in care include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, and self-harm.

1. Ask for support whenever you need it

Build a supportive network with your local fostering team and other foster parents who understand the unique challenges you encounter in your role. They can offer valuable advice and a compassionate ear whenever you need it. Don't hesitate to reach out and ask for their support when you need it.

2. Make time for small acts of self-care

Embrace the wisdom of the famous saying, "You can't pour from an empty cup," by prioritising regular acts of self-care. Engage in small but meaningful activities, such as taking a daily walk with your favourite podcast or playlist, reading a chapter of a book each day, or indulging in a Sunday bath and face mask ritual. These simple yet rejuvenating practices will help you replenish your own well-being and keep your cup full.

3. Set healthy boundaries and routines

In the whirlwind of foster parenting, it's essential to embrace realism. Assess your capacity realistically, ask for help when necessary, and decline commitments that may overwhelm you, like baking cakes for the school's fate. By crafting routines that prioritise personal time and space, you cultivate a healthy balance that contributes to your well-being.

4. Embrace respite

There are times when a complete break from your foster parenting duties becomes necessary. Respite allows you to rest, recuperate, and maintain your ability to provide exceptional care to your foster child. During these moments, we will arrange for your foster children to stay with their dedicated respite foster family, ensuring they receive the care they need while you take some time for yourself.

5. Open communication is key

Be open and honest about your thoughts and emotions with those within your support network, be it a family member, close friend, your local fostering team, other foster parents, or a therapist. By sharing your feelings, you allow others to validate your experiences, providing a comforting reminder that you are not alone. Often, the act of vocalising your emotions can bring a sense of relief, making your challenges feel more manageable and your burdens lighter.

5 tips for looking after your mental health when fostering

Nurturing your mental health is vital for fostering success, as it empowers you to provide the best outcomes for the young people in your care.

Fostering stories

October 31 2019

“I began to see an amazing change in him”

After some turbulent teenage years, Alison turned her life around and now uses her experience to help vulnerable young people as a foster parent.

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May 3 2019

“When a child allows you to hold their hand or give you a hug – you can’t beat it”

Teresa shares how her challenging teenage years have helped her to relate to the children she’s cared for.

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May 17 2019

“I knew that I had the time and energy to help young people on the right path in life”

Nat was inspired to start her fostering journey after working with children in a special needs school and seeing the extraordinary work of foster carers.

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