Jeff*, a high school senior, was hospitalized on two occasions for risk of suicide. After his second hospitalization, he began weekly therapy and, for the next eight months, worked on learning to manage his anxiety and depression. Part of this therapy was to overcome the voice in his head that said,“I’m never going to make it” and replace it with “Yes, I can.”

And, with hard work, he did. Our staff consulted with school personnel about Jeff ’s mental health challenges, helping them to understand the severity of his depression. Although he missed several days of school, Jeff kept up with assignments — a tremendous accomplishment given his disease, and a great affirmation of his desire to complete his senior year.

He succeeded in graduating and continues to manage his depression and anxiety.

He is feeling more hopeful about the future.

*This name has been changed to protect client confidentiality.