Cynthia

Cynthia has used People Incorporated’s Nancy Page Crisis Residence several times when in a mental health crisis. Here she talks about how the crisis-residence approach makes dealing with a crisis so much easier than the typical hospital setting.

“Hospitals are so cold and clinical, and there’s nothing to do, so you sit and think about how bad you feel—and how down you feel about winding up in the hospital again. It’s tough to get better in that kind of place. “I feel so alone sometimes. It’s hard to make friends, especially since I’m the care-giver for my dad, who also has depression. And when you feel a crisis coming on, then being alone is the absolute worst. The pain is twice as bad.”

“I’ve come to Nancy Page Crisis Residence three times. I was scared to come here at first because I didn’t know what kind of place it was. But when I walked up the steps and saw it’s a beautiful old house, I thought it was so cool! It wasn’t a hospital—but a home! I feel so safe here. And it’s so cozy. It’s very healing. There’s also lots of things to do here. We have morning check-in and group meetings, and there’s crafts, games, and people to talk to. I’ve also linked up with People Incorporated’s Artability program, so I’m going to go to the art workshops and exhibit some of my art there next fall.

“The best part is the staff—they are so wonderful! No matter how busy they are, they always take time to talk to me. The other day it was my birthday and they made me a cake and gave me cards—it made me feel so special and cared for. What’s great is that I can also come back to visit any time I like. I only live a few blocks away, so I can come and go to groups or eat—the chef, Oscar, is such a good cook! It’s really nice to know that Nancy Page and the staff are here if I need them.”