Help me get a degree in Psychology

My name is Paul. I'm from Cape Town, South Africa.

I have a burning desire to help others through difficult times in their lives.

I have had my share of hard times in life. I grew up without a father, he died when I was 5. I stayed with my mom until I was 17 when I moved out on my own. I did not finish high school until much later in my life. I got involved with the wrong crowds and got addicted to drugs.I guess in some way it was a way for me to numb the pain I felt inside.

See what I didn't know at the time is I was suffering from manic depression as a result of undiagnosed ADHD and bi-polar disorder. I was only diagnosed later at the age of 34.

In the time of me being an active addict I had gotten married and had 2 children. I put my family through hell. I would go out till late and when I got back home I was not exactly present enough to be a parent or a husband. I had many near fatal vehicle accidents and was even dead for more than 5 minutes. I was stabbed, shot at and arrested more than once. Thank God I never went to prison.

This went on for many years. I was in and out of rehab but nothing really helped. I ended up suicidal and found myself in a depression clinic where I was diagnosed with bi-polar and ADHD.

This was a turning point for me. I was fortunate enough to get a Doctor and friend who helped me work through everything, my addiction and my mental health.

All through my life I had a real big desire to help people even though at the time I couldn't help myself. This is where I realised that if I became a councillor or psychologist, I could help others in the same way I was helped and maybe prevent someone else from wasting many years of their lives like I did.

I want to study to get my degree in Psychology but I can not afford it. I know beyond a doubt that I can do it. It is a dream for me, one that I'm hoping can become a reality with your help.