When I first arrived at Lucida, I had little hope for myself and near unattainable expectations for the staff there. I was, without a doubt, at the lowest point in my life, but they accepted me without pause. I began to think that perhaps I wasn't incurable after all --turns out I was more curable than I ever imagined.
I spent two months recalibrating the way I thought about two decades of painful memories. The women's mood program introduced me to CBT, DBT, and built my self-esteem. One of the most important lessons I learned in my time there was the true benefit that complete honesty yields. With that in mind, I must say that my recovery was just as painful as my downfall at times. But, on the other side of letting go, there was freedom.
All of my needs were met while I was in treatment. The housing was luxurious and well maintained, and our meals were prepared by wonderful chefs who took note of preferences (and even birthdays!).
What surprised me was the relationships I made while I was there. I became close with most of the staff, as they were always willing to listen. They're not just staff, but family while you're there, and the alumni program is great for keeping in touch and successful in recovery.
Choosing Lucida was the best decision I've ever made for myself. When I arrived, I wasn't sure what purpose there was to life. Leaving Lucida, I not only wanted to stay with the wonderful people I met, but I had no doubt of my purpose in life. I didn't have all of the answers, but I found joy in the search for them.
Give yourself a chance.
"To conquer a beast you must first make it beautiful." -K.R. Jamison