Thomas
Thomas
Getting help was the difference between life and death
In Christian tradition, stigma has been associated with the marks or the wounds of Christ. Stigma, consequently, is the unjust ‘marking’ or wounding of those already marked and wounded by mental health conditions through no fault of their own.
Thomas carried the burden of mental health—and mental health stigma—for many years before getting treatment. In his 20s, while a student at Bible college, Thomas knew he was gay, and he struggled with his sexuality. He reached out for counseling but was denied.
In time, he was kicked out of college. At this point, he had thoughts of suicide. Eventually, Thomas was able to get help.
Although I had been in therapy since I was 31, I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder at the age of 45. I was in a partial hospitalization program for 21 days.
At that time, I was serving a parish and was in the closet. The burden of depression and keeping my orientation secret were primary concerns discussed during the program.
I was out of the parish for a month, and, thanks to the program and an adjustment of my medications, I was able to return to the parish. The program saved my life and my career.
“Don’t ever let anyone or anything keep you from getting the help you deserve. You are worth it.”
Thomas believes that getting the help he needed was the difference between life and death.
Over most of my adult life, I have experienced seasons of suicidal ideation. Had I not had continued access to mental health services, I could have easily succumbed to suicide.
Thomas knows that getting help is not always easy for people dealing with mental health conditions, and he considers himself blessed.
My experience of the mental health system has been nothing but positive, including my experiences with therapists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, and psychiatric hospitals.
I have been fortunate to have had few issues with my medications and have always had access to health care through insurance with my employers, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Today, Thomas is managing his depression through medication and therapy. He is a musician and songwriter, and he is active in his local church. By sharing his story, he wants to inspire people with mental health issues to reach out for treatment, regardless of stigma or fear.
For those held back from getting help, my message is this: Don’t ever let anyone or anything keep you from getting the help you deserve. You are worth it.
