To be truthful, I hesitated about writing this particular review because it shares with the world that I needed help with my own mental/emotional health. People are quick to judge when they hear terms like psychologist, therapy or psychiatry. It's the unspoken stigma in society that surrounds the whole idea of mental health versus what it really is.
The stigma of mental health refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes that people hold towards those dealing with mental health issues. (Before entering the program, I too had my own misconceptions.) This stigma can lead to discrimination, prejudice, and social exclusion for those who are affected... It's true because I've experienced some of it myself while being in the program. People with mental health conditions often face discrimination, misunderstanding, and negative stereotypes. This stigma surrounding mental health can PREVENT individuals from seeking help or openly discussing their struggles which is very unfortunate because it can be very helpful.
What changed my mind to write this review? In short, my experience. It was my experience here with Solstice Pacific's facilitators and my peers in the group sessions. Several peers felt they were at the end of their rope, borderline suicidal. I had my own personal challenges but not to that extent. Those brave souls who showed up every day despite their overwhelming depression was a huge factor in sharing my thoughts.
If someone reading this review needs help with his/her own personal struggle, whether it be feelings of extreme anxiousness or deep depression; if this review could help someone or maybe even save a life then it's definitely worth writing. Of the 1,000 reviews I've authored, this is by far THE most important one I've written to date.
Don't let the stigma surrounding mental health prevent you from seeking help. I too was affected by this stigma which dissuaded me from receiving help sooner. I was actually motivated to receive help with my anger issues in order to possibly save my last relationship. Unbeknownst to me at the time, she had her own demons. The irony is my involvement with this young lady was exactly part of the problem. I needed to distance myself from her and the gaslighting/manipulation that is associated with NPD. (Narcissistic Personality Disorder) If you do not know what NPD is, look it up. It's a destructive disorder; very detrimental to the mental well being of the other partner, in this case me.
I won't go into much detail but it was an unhealthy relationship. The NPD and my own unhealthy view of relationships made the perfect toxic cocktail. I couldn't have entered the program at a more optimal time.
I originally came to Solstice Pacific for anger issues but the recent unhealthy relationship was the catalyst to put things in motion to the incidental findings that ran deeper than I had wanted to face... 'But I did.
Much like anything in life, you get out of it by the work you put into it. I had never been in any therapy program prior; this was all brand new to me. I was going to make my time in program count.
When I started attending Solstice Pacific, I thought, "Why am I even here?... I really didn't want to be here sitting amongst strangers. Am I expected to talk about my problems with these people?" My toxic relationship had ended just five days prior and THAT was the main reason I signed up for program in the first place. I wanted to quit before I even started. However, I had already put the time-off request for work and was sitting here on my first day. So, do I quit program, return to work and say, "Just joking, I'm all good now and it was a false alarm." There was no turning back @ this point.
Healing is a process... 'One that you have to trust and be open to. If you don't open yourself up to a learning mindset, in this case honestly sharing your thoughts, feelings, accepting life's truths; you are doing yourself a huge disservice.
While in program, you are surrounded with the support from a team of facilitators, peers, and constantly immersed into learning healthy coping skills to building resilience. It helps you achieve self awareness and mindfulness of the many cognitive distortions created in your own thoughts.
Solstice Pacific doesn't just treat one's symptoms, they take a more holistic approach in treating the whole person. I finished program in August; 16 weeks later and better equipped with the knowledge, skills and tools that I had no idea I was even lacking. As the old saying goes, "You don't know, what you don't know." (Truth.)
Is the work done? Not by a long shot, it's just getting started. The real test is working at it daily by setting a morning intention; mindfully aware of my thoughts, emotions and behavior.
If you're in need of help, I encourage you to reach out to Solstice Pacific. Invest in your well being, you're worth it. Be well, be safe.
- Big Aloha!
Food: n/a
Ambiance: 5
Service: 5
Value: 5 read more