Brenda’s Story
My name is Brenda Carter, and I’m a member of Austin Clubhouse. I have struggled with severe depression for my entire life. From childhood through adulthood, I felt anxious, lost interest in activities I once loved, and found it hard to focus and complete tasks. I was always tired, lonely, hopeless, and many days I felt worthless and suicidal.
As a mother of a young adult facing similar struggles, I found it difficult to get help or guidance. It often felt like there were no organizations built for people like us. I felt so alone, with no one I could talk to. When I opened up to my family, I was told I was being too sensitive, that life wasn’t that bad, or that I should just get over it.
After my diagnosis, labels became a part of my life. The world saw me as ‘crazy’, ‘a downer’, or ‘looney’ – and not as a person. Without a support system, my quickly worsened, and I felt like I had hit rock bottom.
Despite my own experience and pain, my biggest priority was to help my daughter. I watched her struggle, and her well-being was the most important thing in the world to me. I was determined to find support for her, and I just needed something to make a difference. Our case manager recommended Austin Clubhouse, and visiting was the easiest decision we ever made.
When we walked in, it didn’t feel like a mental hospital. There were no nurses watching us 24/7. Instead, we immediately felt freedom to be ourselves. We were welcomed, embraced, and seen. This community has treated us with compassion, understanding, love, and respect.
Through the work of the Clubhouse, I watched my daughter become more confident, laugh more, and gain valuable skills. As she grew, I felt myself grow as well. This community has truly become a second home for both of us.
Both my daughter and I have accomplished so much in the few months we have been members of the Austin Clubhouse. When I first joined, I spent a lot of time in the Vitality Unit to help prepare lunch each day. The staff recognized my passion for cooking and encouraged me apply for a culinary training program with Good Work Austin. It had always been my dream to attend culinary school and one day open my own soul food and African cuisine restaurant. Now, I was one step closer to making this my reality.
Earlier this November, I completed my training and earned my certificate. I had the opportunity to perfect many dishes from all over the world and now I am working to use that knowledge as I look for my first stage with a local hospitality business. I’m doing what I love, and I finally have the community my daughter and I so deeply needed.
As you consider your giving plans for year-end, I hope that you will continue to support the mental health community through a gift to Austin Clubhouse. It’s a place that has shown me, and many others like myself, that we have so much to offer the world. I hope that I will always have the Clubhouse, where I can continue to grow, contribute to its’ success, and encourage others to reach their full potential.
Pictured: Brenda Carter, Austin Clubhouse Member