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Jayden* is no stranger to the frightening reality of facing complex mental illness, addiction and suicidal thoughts, and knows what it takes to overcome them. For Jayden, the ongoing support from CMHA Waterloo Wellington’s team and their group therapy program was life-changing. *This person’s name has been changed to protect their identity. |
When Jayden’s mental health was at its lowest, feelings of isolation and loneliness crept in, despite being surrounded by people.
“Although I had family & friends who loved and supported me while I was struggling with my mental health, I still felt alone – because I felt like no one understood or grasped what I was feeling or going through, I didn’t feel comfortable going to them for help so I would hide my struggles and isolate myself,” said Jayden.
For many years, Jayden lived with an eating disorder and addiction, which eventually led to suicidal thoughts.
“It wasn’t until I started reaching out and receiving support through CMHA Waterloo Wellington services that I was no longer walking this journey on my own. I felt safe, and with people who I could trust."
"Once I had people who understood what I was going through, who refused to give up on me, who encouraged me, who continually lifted me up, who reinforced my self-esteem and who helped me reconnect with hope, I was able to fight and persevere. Sometimes a person suffering with their mental health just needs to have someone to take them by the hand and walk with them through it,” said Jayden, who now recognizes the importance of seeking support when it’s needed and encourages others to do the same.
“Having an open mind and willing attitude as well as hearing from peers and participating in therapy helped me to get to a place where I was able to learn what my true needs and values are and work on my recovery.”
Jayden’s journey to better mental health wasn’t simple or easy, but with the right support from friends, family and the free services offered by CMHA, Jayden’s mental health has improved drastically.
“It was with CMHA Waterloo Wellington staff that I learned it was ok to be scared, because it wasn’t going to be easy. But I needed to decide if I wanted to remain stuck in the same patterns, struggles and behaviours or to take that leap [to recovery],” Jayden said.
Jayden is now a member of the CMHA Waterloo Wellington client council, advocating for improved care within the mental health system. “It is incredibly rewarding to share my experience of what has worked and what hasn’t, and to not only be heard, but also listened to with love and gratitude and impacting real change,” said Jayden.
