“Before this program, my life was challenging for me, as I was going through various crises related to bipolar disorder, particularly on the depressive side. When I first arrived at the program, I faced situations where I couldn’t find a sense of purpose in my life. It felt pointless to fight against so many fears, mental blocks, discouragement, anxiety, and confusion. On top of that, I had family issues where I didn’t know how to help my loved ones or how to cope with other challenges.

When I started receiving case management and therapy services, the most helpful thing for me was having someone to talk to at least once a week. My therapist listened to me, offered guidance, and together we processed difficult emotions. I also learned various coping skills—practical strategies that I could gradually apply in different situations and challenges.

Additionally, I learned relaxation techniques, emotional regulation, [how to] advocate for myself, self-care, stress management, and how to shift my negative thoughts to a more positive perspective. Ultimately, [being able to] understand my situation and identify the triggers for my crises really helped me to recognize them and be more aware and [know] how can I react if ever happens again.

During the treatment, I experienced some depressive relapses that kept coming back. It was challenging to process my thoughts and emotions, and especially hard to connect with myself. My rehabilitation counselor and therapist helped me by guiding me to understand why I felt that way. I could look within myself and reflect on various factors from my childhood or earlier in my life that may have influenced what I was experiencing. I learned to acknowledge the emotions that were overwhelming me, allowing myself to listen to them, process them, and ultimately let them go when I no longer needed them.

I learned that life — just like it isn’t always perfect or smooth — doesn’t have to be filled with suffering either. Not everything will always be about depression; just as there can be a period of intense storms and darkness, the sun will eventually rise and light the way again. I discovered that we are all valuable individuals, each with a purpose, even if it’s just one thing we excel at. We all deserve a second chance, and we’re never truly alone in life; we can always count on someone. Problems have solutions, as long as we work to find them, holding onto the hope that we will.

I experienced changes in how I felt and expressed myself. There were physical changes as well, like weight loss and starting a gym routine. My self-esteem significantly increased, and I became more connected to my emotions. I practiced expressing my needs and what I wanted to do. I also saw an increase in my social interactions, whether at school, work, or in recreational activities like music and sports. I’m moving forward, becoming more independent and confident in myself and my abilities. I have new goals, and I’m determined to make my dreams a reality.

The value of this program is immense. It won’t change your life on its own, but your life can change through it. That change depends on whether you truly commit to the process, listen, put into practice everything you’re guided, and make use of all the resources available to you. Most importantly, it requires a resilient attitude and a belief that you can overcome your situation by admitting you need help and starting a journey that, no matter how long or difficult, will lead you to a place where you can look back and say, ‘What seemed impossible became possible.’ Thank you, Community Solutions.”

Thank you for making such a difference for Manuel and for providing life-saving mental health care to so many other youth and young adults like him. This is a lifelong gift indeed!