Getting help was the most important and amazing thing I have ever done for myself. In all honesty, treatment and healing sucks. It's painful but the end result is so worth it. I was undergoing treatment for eight months straight - groups, inpatient, and residential - and I wouldn't change a thing.
As I went through treatment, I remember wishing I could be like others. Hoping I could go out and do fun things instead of sitting inside talking about my feelings and, as time went on, treatment was something I looked forward to because I could feel myself becoming happier and enjoying life more and more every day. It was not easy to talk about my past, my trauma, or my feelings but everyone was so supportive and always had a listening ear, which made it easier to talk and allow myself to heal.
I learned so many skills, including TIPP, STOP, self-soothing and acceptance. Now, I have an easier time regulating my emotions and allowing myself to feel them instead of pushing them away.
Getting help is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of bravery, to allow yourself to heal and open up despite how hard it may be. It’s never too late to get help, no matter how old or young you are, there is so much hope in life.
I am 20 years old and have been through lots of treatments and hope was not an easy thing at first, but I am finding hope more every day. I got a job in mental health and I am a huge advocate for mental health and healing.
Remember you are not your mental health; you deserve to heal no matter what anyone else thinks. You are not weak you are SO brave and I am SO proud of you all. I am proud of myself and I can't wait to see what else life brings me.
Healing is possible, I promise.
-Kendra
Voices of Hope wants you to know that you do not have to do this alone. Click here to ‘find help’ - it’s not weak to speak!