McDougall House Client Story

A client who’d successfully completed the program at McDougall House shared these reflections with us and agreed to let us share them with you:

I remember being really nervous about applying to come to MCDH. I had been here once before and wasn’t sure if I would be allowed to come back. I didn’t like any of my other options as they were unknown to me or would take me further away from what I know. And besides, I had fond feelings of McDougall House and forged friendships that had lasted from the last time I was here. I hoped it would be the same time this time around. It was. The safety and comfort this house offers are immeasurable. The bonds and connections I’ve made with the women and staff are heartfelt and truly priceless.

“The safety and comfort this house offers are immeasurable.”

The program has taught me many ways to cope, how to ground myself, the difference between guilt and shame, the harm social media causes on young minds I’ve learned how to recognize and name my emotions. I have climbed out of a deep depression to where it felt truly wonderful to laugh, big belly laughs that I haven’t felt in such a long time. I catch myself smiling more often and partaking in conversations whereas before I was flat and quiet. All of these changes happened in the presence of you ladies, my friends and I want to thank you for being there with me and accepting me as I was and as I am now. Thank you for being my friends and witnesses.

I will continue to use what I have learned about healing relationships with me in the future. And manage my stress accordingly using humour as a way to relieve it.