Meet Tonya H., a resilient 58-year-old mother of three daughters and proud grandmother of six. Before embarking on her healing journey, Tonya found herself grappling with emotional turmoil. “I would be happy and then upset and couldn’t figure out what was going on with me. My relationships suffered. It affected my daily life.”
Over the course of ten years, Tonya engaged in therapy intermittently, acknowledging the pattern of discontinuing when she felt better, only to slide downhill after six months to a year.
Tonya’s path to recovery began with a connection to Jefferson Center’s Navigation resource team. Together, they navigated the complexities of setting up her Medicaid insurance and initiating the process of securing disability benefits.
In early 2019, Tonya faced a particularly challenging downhill slide, reaching a point where her depression became so overwhelming that she contemplated suicide. However, a promise to her daughter marked a turning point. Tonya committed to getting up, taking a shower, organizing herself, and ultimately seeking help at the hospital.
Following hospital treatment and an outpatient program, Tonya returned to Jefferson Center with a newfound determination. Reflecting on her experience, she commended the center for providing some of the best therapists and a supportive community. Tonya delved into the diverse array of therapies offered, including group therapy, wellness classes, CBT/DBT groups, somatic groups, and even the Healing Arts Group.
Through these various sessions, Tonya gained valuable insights into the intricate connection between her physical and mental health, emphasizing the importance of exercise and diet. Looking ahead, Tonya has a clear plan to continue her journey at Jefferson Center, where she aims to undergo EMDR, a treatment designed to process trauma.
Tonya H. is not just a survivor; she is a testament to the transformative power of collaborative care and the resilience that can emerge from facing one’s struggles head-on.
“With my work at Jefferson Center, I’m starting to understand where my problems stem from.”
-Tonya H.
Your story matters. Share it with us.
Has your life improved because of mental health treatment? Do you wish to use your experience to help others?
Sharing your experiences with mental health treatment can help others who are struggling, and it can help fight the stigma of seeking mental health care.
You can remain anonymous.
For more information, please email VoicesOfHope@jcmh.org.
