As a former patient with dual diagnosis (mental illness/drug addiction), SJBH’s Intensive Outpatient Programs was instrumental in providing their services to me. I called and made a convenient in-person appointment the next day, and felt comfortable enough to do what I felt was best regardless of some feelings telling me to postpone, or even to be argumentative to the person I was speaking with during this appointment. I joined the Outpatient Program and started the next day. The ambiance and staff are sincere, the hours are convenient, and lunch is served, and there are other programs available that are free including a family evening of about an hour or so, where clients like myself and a family member, or significant person comes with you for a casual meet. I, after years of depressive illness, social separation, loneliness, hopelessness, and the stigma of shame or guilt and ignorance endured not only from myself, but from the World around me, the horror of addiction and it’s paralyzing negative effects to my mind and body, I spent considerable time off-and-on searching for treatment, and I learned some things: First, not to give up. Second, to consider all possibilities regardless of what my mind may of told me, and that I certainly still and always had the willpower/ability to make a change for a better life. I was at first surprised yet skeptical when I found that help (regardless of any negative assumptions my mind was telling me) was literally around the corner from me. Me, in one of my most painful, physically and mentally challenged times due to exhaustion from addiction and discouragement from many mental health providers over many years made a willful and mindful decision to at least call SJBH Outpatient Program and ask how will you help me. I was comforted having accepted the Program and immediately began feeling like I was now gaining self-control. I enjoyed the smallness in the size of attendance in the Program, and the true caring of people helping me, and being with my peers; people like me. So much I didn’t know, I now know, and it has has helped change my life from the pain I was suffering. I did not complete the Program because I had a set-back which is typical yet not shameful of addicts or other ailments, and re-enrolled. Mental illness and addiction are painful, yet I have the power to change it. The difference between good and bad is me. I encourage you to decide wether you prefer to live in your darkness or in a familiar, or new light. You probably don’t realize the difference between the 2 at this point, but choose the light, and make a powerful and willful choice to stop living in the dark, and live now in the light while you have this chance. Remember, that even though you may loose encouragement, or experience a set-back, know that you have already accomplished much, and that can’t be taken away. Get back up and move forward again, and again. You are not alone. To this day I am not relieved of depression yet, but I’m relieved by having the courage, willpower and determination to act while being hopeful. Thank you SJBH. In addition, I do have opinions on Methamphetamine addiction and it’s pros/cons. Also, the psychological and physical effects either temporary or sustaining. And, some aspects of my own mental illness such as major depression. These opinions come from my own experience and knowledge. However, this Review is not the forum for that.
