Waccamaw Center for Mental Health

Stories of recovery and hope. The following are real letters from past and present Clients.

Cindy L.

Before Peer Support and Taking Charge classes, I was this meek, shy, scared, and negative person. I was always a victim. I was a victim of my own abuse. I put myself down terribly, called myself some nasty names and my husband did too. He also physically abused me. I was so mentally and physically beat up that I didn’t have any self-confidence, self-love, or self-esteem. I was very suicidal when first attending classes. I really believed I was going to be the first hopeless case in Peer Support. I thought people could tell I was mentally ill, just by looking, or talking to me. I was very insecure and self-conscious.

In Peer Support and Taking Charge classes I have learned that although I may be helpless at times, I am not hopeless. I’m not wrong, I am average, and he or she is not wrong but average. This is something I needed to learn because I always thought of myself as way below average. I’ve learned that my words and vocabulary have worked against me in the past. I have also learned to change an insecure thought to a secure thought. I have learned that everyday stressors are a triviality compared to my mental health. I’ve learned to put my mental health first above all else.

The changes in me have been gradual. I’m no longer shy, I don’t feel meek and scared all the time. I no longer think negatively. I laugh a lot more. I am more patient and understanding. I am kinder to myself, making me kinder to others. I am no longer self-conscious and don’t care what others think of me. I care about what I think of me. I have self-confidence, self esteem, and self respect. I actually like myself after 40 years of being my worst enemy. I’ve learned to take responsibility for my life by not blaming others. I’ve learned to take responsibility for my life by not blaming others, and I have learned forgiveness.

I cannot brag enough on how my once negative thinking has changed to positive thinking. My whole outlook on life has changed for the better. I am learning to step out of my comfort zone by attending functions, dinners, and get togethers. Fear is no longer in control of me as I learn to control the fear. The inner peace I feel is so worth the few hours I spend a week at the classes. I was able to quit smoking because of the tools I learned in Peer Support. I have had setbacks and go back to my old habits sometimes, but I recognize them right away and practice, practice, practice the method, because they really do work, I’m living proof.

I also give credit to my Doctor, and Counselor for their help in my recovery.