Doug is enrolled in C4’s journaling class and other mental health services. Here is Doug’s story in his own words:

My name is Doug, and I have a mental illness. I go home to my SRO room, which is already not a pleasant place to be. I hear voices, and sometimes I think the people who talk in the hallway are voices talking about me.

Mental illness can manifest itself in ways besides voices, such as anxiety, depression and many others. I distract the voices by attending groups at C4, watching TV, sports and news. I walk to the park to watch the dogs play.

I hope to be able to be more comfortable in talking with people from the outside. It has taken 21 years just to be able to cope and be calm — having no strings attached to emotions. When you have mental illness there can be something taxing your mind a lot.

I am going to be volunteering in the snack bar so I can get a certificate to work in the community. I already have the C4 certificate for janitorial work. C4 has been great in helping me further my recovery through counseling, case management and vocational training. All the groups have helped me, but the ones that have helped me the most are: men’s group, yoga and journaling.

I have become a whole person, as much as I can truly be, capable of seeking what I truly want.

Doug’s photo and his journal story appeared in the Fall 2009 print newsletter.

Interested in journaling or other C4 services? Call 773.769.0205 to get started.