"An individual with a long-standing mental health history has obtained stability through utilization of services at IMS. This individual has completed the MN peer support training and is now certified to provide mental health mentorship to others who struggle with navigating their own mental wellness. This individual has dreamt of renting or owning a home and has recently obtained a rental home within our community; as well as obtaining employment. They gained confidence of self and confidence in the world surrounding them. Services provided opportunity to learn coping skills to manage their trauma and this cultured a "Pay-It-Forward" mindset within this individual. They are dedicated in providing others with the support and nurturing they obtained throughout their journey to wellness.
A single mom here in Austin has 3 children. She works full time locally, and also has started a part-time job to cover the costs of medical services. One of her children has struggled within the last year due to his gender transition. He has had multiple psychiatric hospitalizations due to failed suicide attempts. She is currently paying on the hospital bills, which are outrageous. Her daughter witnessed his last suicide attempt. She has significant anxiety due to this event and requires therapy services. Her mom continues to be responsible for her portion of therapy services which is roughly 40% of each visit. She was afraid that she would have to stop services for her daughter, but was very relieved to learn that she could utilize these dollars to continue to get her daughter the help she needs with her anxiety and panic attacks. She was very grateful for the United Way's support."
