Kim
Kim
Seeking treatment is a sign of strength
Kim has had anxiety all her life, and she has fought for years to get the help she needs and deserves.
My anxiety was so bad that I would choose to stay in rather than go out socially. I couldn’t drive for an entire year. I still get nervous having people ride in my car. Talking on the phone was something I dreaded too. I’d get so nervous that I’d say something stupid.
Kim experienced her first depressive episode in college and started smoking marijuana frequently at age 21.
It shut my mind off, stopped the racing thoughts and the ‘crawling in my skin’ feeling.
Kim knew she had a problem, so she connected with a psychiatrist. She was diagnosed with anxiety, a substance use disorder, as well as PTSD stemming from a string of difficult life events.
My father abandoned my brother and me when I was 15. He left us financially destitute. He started a new life with his new wife and never once reached out to us.
My mom grew up with a narcissistic and emotionally abusive mother. Unfortunately, some of those traits were instilled in her too.
She was critical of me. I never felt good enough. Still, she is the only one I feel really loved me. When she died, I was emotionally stunted even more.
“I want people to know that seeking treatment is a sign of strength. You are worth it. You deserve to have a happy and healthy life.”
Kim has been in treatment for more than 20 years, including treatment at McLean Hospital’s Behavioral Health Partial Hospital Program.
It was one of the most beneficial experiences because the treatment team was so caring and really wanted me to succeed.
They provided me with invaluable tools such as DBT, CBT, mindfulness, and group therapy. I practice CBT every day.
Kim works in the research department at McLean Hospital. On her own time, she works to increase awareness of substance use disorders, and she supports charitable efforts to help kids with cancer.
With her years of personal and professional experience in the mental health care system—and with her years of fighting the stigma so often associated with mental health—she wants to give comfort and strength to others.
She is currently in school, obtaining her licensure as a drug and alcohol counselor.
After years of struggling, I now accept and understand my mental health condition. I practice self-care. I am resilient.
I want people to know that seeking treatment is a sign of strength. You are worth it. You deserve to have a happy and healthy life.
