My name is Jane, and this is my story.

I grew up on Long Island with my parents, brother, and sister. My home life was pretty chaotic, and my only control was food, which led to an eating disorder. The suicidal thoughts began when I was 17 years old.

I attended college at SUNY Brockport and managed to graduate with a degree in Social Work, in spite of the fact that I felt like I was spiraling out of control. I was in group therapy for my eating disorder, but not medicated and having suicidal thoughts on a regular basis.

After college, I worked as a social worker for 2 ½ years. I left the profession and went on to a career in telecommunications for the next 27 years. While working, I continued to struggle. I was in an out of therapy over the years. I was finally properly diagnosed with depression, anxiety and PTSD. I began medication which I feel saved my life.

Then I was laid off in 2014. Due to my years of struggle with my mental illness prior to my diagnosis and subsequent medication, my job performance had not been up to par and so during contract negotiations, I was let go. This sent me spiraling into a deep depression again with suicidal thoughts. I wound up isolating in my apartment, barley functioning and just stuck. I lost my apartment and wound up on social services in a hotel. I was lucky to have the village of people helping me survive against major suicidal ideations. I put myself in the hospital to address mental health concerns. I applied for disability and got approved with the help of a legal group. I found housing and moved to Asbury Park.

Throughout my life, music has been my happy place, which is why I chose to live in Asbury. However, once I moved to Asbury Park, I went into my deep dark place, and was unsure where to get help. I was stuck and immobilized in my apartment for over four months. I felt useless and didn’t know where to turn for help. My older brother has been helping me with budgeting and overall support. I would not have made it without his help. I also went to Asbury Park’s Municipal Building and met with the social worker. This is where I discovered Shore House.

Soon after, I became a member at Shore House, and it has been a Godsend. I am finally with people who understood what it is like to live with mental illness and work in a real-life environment. The board and staff are so supportive and caring. And I have gotten so much out of the program. Through their Transitional Employment Program (TEP) I went back to work for the first time in two decades and it feels wonderful! It has given me the confidence I needed to know I can be a productive contributing member of my community.
Shore House continues to be a lifesaver.