Laurie McLachlan says she has been “doing a dance with her mental health” since she was 16 years old.
“It’s been a very long journey, with ups and downs,” she says. “I’ve been trying to find to live a life without anguish through medication, therapy.”
Almost 50 years later, she has found balance and the support she felt she was looking for in the Community Mental Health program at Joseph Brant Hospital.
“I have hope, and belief that it is possible to find equilibrium,” she says. “The programs I attended have given me the tools to get me through difficult thoughts.”
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) was a game changer for Laurie. She feels the programs and support at JBH are invaluable to service recipients like her and shares that support is available if you look for it.
“Living with good mental health is possible, and it’s important to talk about it,” she says. “My ongoing weekly group sessions keep me connected to like-minded people, and we share our wins and losses.”
Laurie knows many people want and need help, and that is where the incredible and innovative programs available right here in our community come into play.
“The community needs to know that they do have support at Joseph Brant Hospital,” she says.