Rebecca: A Story of Transformation

January 16, 2019

"HopeWay was the best gift I could have ever given myself. It has changed my life in countless ways and I am forever grateful."    - Rebecca, former client

As you've heard us say before, managing a mental illness can feel like a roller-coaster of ups and downs until effective treatment is found. Rebecca always struggled with feelings of anxiety, but realized that what she thought was just nerves did not affect her friends the same way. It was not until her time at HopeWay that she had a clear understanding of the symptoms of her diagnosis and how to deal with them in a productive way.

At her first job, Rebecca struggled with stressors like a heavy and unpredictable workload and "survivors guilt" during the recession, which resulted in frequent migraines. Things became more manageable when her doctor prescribed a medicine to help with panic attacks.  But soon after, Rebecca's husband confronted her with his built-up feelings of unhappiness in their marriage. She was not faced with the task of raising their two young girls and maintaining a demanding job, all while nurturing a marriage that was hanging on by a thread with both spouses battling depression. "I cried most days during the work week, and my home life was just as mentally taxing."

After a major psychotic break that included thoughts of suicide, Rebecca met with her doctor who told her about HopeWay. After discussing family needs and plans with her husband, she entered HopeWay's Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and quickly realized that this is where she was meant to be.

For Rebecca, HopeWay was just the start. Every day since discharge is a little better than the day before, and she has made a lot of major changes to become the best version of herself, including leaving her job of 12 years. She says, "everything in my life is getting better with time, patience, practice and a lot of gratitude. Volunteering, giving back, practicing yoga, tuning out 'the noise' and spending quality time with loved ones and dear friends have all helped me in my healing process."

When telling others about her experience, Rebecca stresses that it is brave to seek treatment for illnesses that are unfairly stigmatized. While treatment at HopeWay is wonderful and effects change, you still have to work when you return to a regular routine. But, with the right combination of medicine, therapy and a healthy, productive lifestyle, individuals like Rebecca can go on to live amazing, fulfilling lives.