A 180-Degree Turnaround
Dave, Cora Dale Clubhouse, Goshen IN
I have been dealing with mental illness and anxiety most of my life. It effected my concentration and my ability to be social. I hated school and I couldn’t hold a job. I was finally diagnosed with bi-polar and depression in my early to mid 20s. I self-medicated, becoming an alcoholic and drug addict. Life has been a rollercoaster, one minute I’m up and the next I’m down. It was hard for me to have relationships, it impacted my family tremendously. I’ve been in and out of mental health care for the last twenty years. My whole support team recommended Clubhouse to me and we talked about it for a long time.
Last year I finally had to try and come in. My life was very chaotic and I was tired of being lonely and not having a life. The first time I walked through the doors I had a complete panic attack. I walked in talked with [Clubhouse Director] Rich Meyer and walked out shaking like a leaf, I was way outside my comfort zone. About a month later I worked up the gumption to come in again. I observed and watched and slowly moved past my anxiety. Rich really made me feel welcome, like I was needed and part of something.
Now, I have done a 180-degree turnaround. My social skills are better and I am getting more involved with the Clubhouse. I am working on my sobriety and looking forward to starting work again. I would recommend this place to anyone who has mental health issues. I have seen this place do wonders for myself and others.