It was a very long desperate road back to health, especially during the periods when I was unable to cope effectively. My priority was to read as much as I could on my illness, feeling that if I understood what was happening to me, that I would learn different methods to help me cope with my fears. The first step for me was admitting that something was wrong with my behaviour. I didn't want to be on medication every day of my life, if there was no hope for the future. Once I was on medication for a while, I realized that it was helping me. My relationships with friends were becoming less stressful. It was amazing to have relief from the sadness and the fears I felt. I even felt physically better! Prior to the medication I had trouble with stuttering, and shaking, but the medication helped with that as well.

After I felt better for some time, I decided to take the Peer Support training course. I felt that it would give me skills that would help me in my daily life. I thought it would help me to overcome some fears of meeting new people. Because I have epilepsy, I had several seizures during the course. However, I was determined to finish the course despite some of the struggles I had along the way. I was very happy and thrilled that I graduated. Now I find it much easier to meet new people. I still have fears, but I've found healthier ways of dealing with them.