Jo
I have PTSD, Bipolar and severe ADHD- combined type. I also grew up with severe abuse. My family valued garbage more than me. To avoid beatings, I had to predict and fulfill all the needs of others, while accepting whatever they did to me.
My interactions at school and work only added more issues to my already very troubled personality. All this resulted in me being a walking switchboard with many triggers and much reactivity for each.
It was through the collaboration of the amazing Art Studio staff and my amazing mental health care team at Ravensong that I am finally able address my personality issues and am learning how to co exist peacefully with others.
The learning starts when at the Art Studio conflicts develop between me and other clients. The occupational therapist then works with me on conflict resolution and how to find solutions that are more conducive to collaboration. I am also learning how to navigate difficult situations without creating conflict.
I am learning about boundaries which are often the root of many conflicts. I am learning what my boundaries are and how to respectfully let others know of them without freaking out. And that I need to listen to and respect the boundaries of others.
Most importantly, I am learning how my behaviour is impacting others. I now see that my reactiivty is quite triggering to many. I am currently working on strategies to neutralize my triggers and to minimize my reactivty
When what I need goes beyond the Art Studio mandate, my therapists at Ravensong help me. The medication helps take the edge off so I am more open to challenges to my indoctrinated mode of functioning. This combined therapy has also help free me from bipolar episodes for a few years now.
Through the amazing therapy and patience of the occupational therapist, the other Art Studio staff and my team, I am becoming a nicer, happier less stressed out person.
The Art Studio is truly an amazing rehabilitation program.
Thank you Art Studio Rehabilitation staff!!!
Thank you Occupational Therapist!!!
Thank you Levines and all the donors!!!
For making my rehabilitation possible. Thank you for also making the rehabilitation of countless of other Art Studio clients possible.