Faces of Loudoun: Mental Illness Just Means I Need Help Now and Then – Loudoun Now

Meet Scott: For as long as I can remember, Ive struggled with mental illness. It got worse in my early 20s. All my friends used drugs and drank and, before long, I joined them.

When I was under the influence, I made bad choices. My mental health deteriorated, I couldnt keep a job, and I left those around me hurting. It felt like a downward spiral, and I didnt know where to turn.

No one in Loudoun should have to face mental health challenges alone.

The Next Chapter

My family stepped in to get me help. They took me to a hospital with mental health services that helped me get sober and prescribed me medication to keep me on track. They also connected me to a local nonprofit that, for 19 years now, has been my support system. They manage my finances, make sure Im paying my bills on time, connect me with job coaches, and get me rides when I have somewhere to go.

With their support, Ive turned my life around.

I can take care of myself now. I moved from a group home into an apartment in Leesburg. I recently graduated from a psychosocial rehabilitation program and am now looking for a part-time job. Whats the milestone Im most proud of? I just hit 33 years of sobriety. Everyone who helped me get here say they are proud of me.

Ive learned that mental illness isnt a death sentence. With the help of local volunteers, nonprofits, and government-run programs, individuals like me can live a full life. We just need a little help sometimes. Wont you lend a hand and help end the need in Loudoun?

As part of the Community Foundations Faces of Loudoun campaign,Loudoun Nowis publishing monthly articles highlighting men, women and children who have found a helping hand when they needed it most. Learn more or donate to help End the Need at FacesofLoudoun.org.

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Faces of Loudoun: Mental Illness Just Means I Need Help Now and Then - Loudoun Now