The Voice of Interlude's Residents & Alumni

General Comments and thoughts about Interlude I like where I'm living. I appreciate what Interlude has done for me. I love the staff so much. I will miss you when I leave. Thanks for everything!  -Sally                Without Interlude I might be homeless, or even dead. -Recovery Program resident                            Interlude is my safe, caring family.  -Debbie What something you have achieved lately? Recently I completed the first 8 weeks of Tai Chi lessons, sponsored by Interlude, with perfect attendance. It made me feel good because I never used to finish anything! It made me feel good also because I thought I couldn't learn all the moves, but I have! It made me feel special because Interlude worked so hard to make this available for us, so I know they care. - Debbie With Interlude's help I was able to get over the fear of going to my mother's grave site. I went there with my youngest sister. I thought I was going to cry & get upset, but what I did find was comfort, peace, and joy because my mother was at peace.  - Gladys What is the greatest challenge you face in managing your mental illness, and what helps the most? To be able to literally do anything I want without feeling overwhelmed by anxiety. What helps: Diverting my attention by traveling, gardening, going to the movies, stamp collecting, and walking.” -Jim  My greatest challenge is knowing the 1st Step, knowing I am powerless over alcohol. What helps me most is the Recovery Program and the staff. My doctor helps me with my mental illness.” - Eugene My greatest challenge is to listen to other people, yet see for myself. - Walter I am 7 months sober at Interlude and a way I control alcoholism is to attend AA and talk with my sponsor. For my mental illness, Interlude has helped me by talking to me and providing a safe place to live. Staying on my medication and going to therapy also helps. - Diana Stigma is the greatest challenge for me, and it appears to me that there is a greater degree of stigma attached to a mental illness than to AIDS, gender preferences, and leprosy (yes, leprosy still exists today, but there are effective medications).  -Anonymous resident As soon as a person knows you have a mental illness, everything you do or say is scrutinized. Stigma is expressed by families, work associates, friends, physicians, strangers—literally almost everywhere...and sometimes, unfortunately, in the mental health system itself (Interlude staff excluded!) - Friend of Interlude What helps me the most? After 28 years of having mental illness I still find many challenges. My greatest comfort however is prayer, and tears. I know that God feels my pain and that in his eyes, I am a worthy person. As he wipes the tears from my eyes, my pain is eased and I can forgive those who have hurt me.”    -Judith