Supported Employment client story: ‘I can be an example to my kids and grandkids’
Leslie* had a long career in manufacturing when her mental health began to impact her work. She had a history of addiction and a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type. At work, she started to experience severe anxiety and paranoia, ultimately leading to her being hospitalized.
“Over the years, I had a couple hospitalizations back-to-back, and it was a barrier because I wasn't sure I'd be able to get back into working,” she says. “I thought I would have to give it up."
Leslie came to LifeWorks NW and received integrated behavioral health services, which included joining the Supported Employment program.
Finding 'a career that would make a difference'
With her Supported Employment Specialist, Emily Proffitt, QMHA, Leslie thought about what her next career may look like. She wanted to learn how to navigate finding a job that would be the right fit for her.
“I wanted to have a career that would make a difference,” she says. “I wanted to support others with mental health conditions. I knew I wanted to do Peer Support and help people like me.”
Together, they worked on creating a resume and building interviewing skills. Leslie says that Emily was very encouraging and helped her stay motivated, feel more confident, and gain independence.
“I learned that you really get out of the program what you put in,” says Leslie. “The people in the program are your guides, but you're steering your own boat. They guide you, and you make the decisions.”
Because of her own lived experience, Leslie had been a volunteer at a mental health organization, and she felt ready to apply when she heard they had a Peer Support Specialist role open. With her new skills and confidence, Leslie was hired for the position.
Being an example to the next generation
“I got the right support and got on the right medications, and I was able to find a job that I love," says Leslie. “I didn't have to give up.”
“I have also learned that every service with LifeWorks NW kind of works together,” she adds. “Having therapy, case management, medication management, and Supported Employment all work in tandem -- it sets you up for success."
Leslie encourages individuals with mental health conditions to seek support if they need it. “I think just the experience of being able to find a job and having lived experience, I can be an example to my kids and grandkids. They can look up to me,” she says. “I hope that my story can inspire others."
*not her real name
SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT AT LIFEWORKS NW
LifeWorks NW's Supported Employment program provides a full range of vocational assistance to adults and older teens living with severe mental illness and having a desire to work. Learn more about our programs by calling 503-645-9010 or by filling out our contact form.
