Along my journey I learned that I had disorders that came with names like Post
Traumatic Stress, Major Depression, and Bipolar.  It was pointed out that my recovery was up to me, and the staff at the Human Service Center was there to help me help myself.  I had to do the leg work, and the staff would help me remain motivated and support me in my quest, but only as much as I needed.  

My Recovery Specialists tolerated my anger and outbursts. They listened when I needed to babble about my story, or share my nightmares. They encouraged me to not give up.  I talked to my Recovery Specialist, took my medications properly, and began to go to groups that included Grief, Anger Management, Pain Management, Anxiety, Depression in Men, and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy. I can’t say the exact day that my outlook changed, but it has. I am now free to make choices in my life.  I no longer have to lie in bed all day, or in a dark room and cry. All along my journey I have had relapses, but I need never lose hope again.

I came to the realization that I was not the only person with my illness and symptoms. I also came to understand that at the Human Service Center there were people who would accept me as who I am, and I need not be alone.

Today the keys to my recovery can best be found in my daily affirmations and self talk.

1) I am the only one that can judge my emotions

2) I must be part of something larger than myself

3) I accept that my mental illness will probably never completely go away, but I can learn to manage it.