Every Story Needs Told

Kristi's Story

A few weeks ago, I self-admitted myself to Chestnut Ridge,

which some of you may not know, is a mental hospital. I've been struggling for

a long time with suicidal thoughts and felt like if I had mentioned it to

anyone, they would think I was just trying to get attention. So I didn't

mention it until I had a mental break down and actually made an attempt on my

life. I scared the living hell out of myself and made my way to the ER the next

morning.

Currently, I feel as though if I share the fact that I was

institutionalized, that I'll be judged and put into the "crazy" category.

Which, I don't blame any of you if you feel that way. The stigma that's

associated with mental hospitals is way off base. I met some wonderful people

while I was in the hospital, people that I couldn't even fathom what they have

been through. There weren't any padded rooms, strait jackets, or confinement.

It was just a group of people that had been dealing with too much for too long

and a staff of incredibly helpful individuals.

If you're struggling with stress, depression, suicidal

thoughts, or anything else for that matter. Don't ignore it. Seek help. Whether

it's from you friends and family or from a team of medical staff. Someone is

always available.

I'm not crazy. I suffer from severe depression. I've started

weekly therapy every Tuesday.