A Team Effort to Healing: Ashley's Story

October 31, 2022

Prior to HopeWay

I dealt with a cycle of mental health conditions for several years, but it all came to a head when my husband and I were on a trip for our anniversary. During a hike, we were crossing a bridge and I had an intense feeling that I just wanted to jump off. I confided in my husband, and we decided it was time to corral my support group and end the cycle I had been dealing with for years. He called my mother and three closest friends, and they started researching primary mental health treatment facilities. It was hard to find something that was not focused on substance abuse, but then they found HopeWay. It seemed like the perfect match to meet my needs, but it was a long way from our home in New Mexico. The thought and guilt of leaving my two kids for 6 - 8 weeks almost prevented me from saying yes, but then I realized not getting help would hurt them more.

The thought and guilt of leaving my two kids for 6 - 8 weeks almost prevented me from saying yes, but then I realized not getting help would hurt them more.

HopeWay's Partial Hospitalization Program

My husband traveled with me to Charlotte so I could complete the PHP program. While I was in treatment, my mother watched my boys, and my best friend took care of our home and dogs. My support system made sacrifices that I will forever be grateful for.

Environment at HopeWay

HopeWay opened my eyes to a new world of possibility. It is a dream environment, a sharp contrast to the other mental health facilities I had been in. The biggest surprise was how comprehensive the program was, with music, horticulture and art. My diagnosis and medications were evaluated and readjusted. I learned basic coping skills I didn’t know I needed. Even the food was great! More than the beautiful physical setting and programs, there is a feeling of loving kindness. Every single person on the staff is wonderful and should be commended.

Aftercare

After six weeks in treatment, I was ready to discharge, but I was worried about the transition back home. My Client Care Coordinator at HopeWay set me up with a treatment program in Albuquerque, and I completed a day program there for a year. The combination of HopeWay and the continued treatment in Albuquerque was ultimately life changing.

Importance of a Support System

One of the many things I learned at HopeWay is the importance of a support system. I saw firsthand how my support system rallied around me to get me the right treatment, but not everyone has that in friends and family. Now I lead a support group for women in my community and often share the tools I learned during my time at HopeWay. The act of giving back is just one step on my journey to healing.

The act of giving back is just one step on my journey to healing.