Taking Charge is a 12-week transformative program which aims to empower individuals to reclaim control of their mental health and emotional well-being.

Julinda, a kindergarten teacher and single mother, began experiencing severe stomach issues and debilitating acid reflux in May 2021. Despite her efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle, her physical health deteriorated rapidly, leaving her unable to perform even the simplest tasks.

“I felt defeated from the thoughts of not being able to do all of the things I did before,” says Julinda. “I couldn’t take care of my daughter, I couldn’t work, and I couldn’t clean the house or cook a meal. Everything felt impossible.”

Julinda faced dismissive attitudes and vague explanations during multiple hospital visits and specialist consultations, attributing her symptoms to trauma, depression, or anxiety. Despite skepticism, Julinda tried therapy and medication for anxiety but found no relief. After exhausting local options, she sought help abroad, where a specialist discovered that Julinda had a massive chest hernia.

Physical recovery was only the beginning of Julinda’s healing journey. The trauma of her ordeal left her grappling with depression, anger, and a profound sense of loss. “After my surgery abroad, I was left completely traumatized, depressed, and frustrated,” says Julinda.

In June 2022, Julinda discovered Humber River Health’s transformative program, Taking Charge, which aims to empower individuals to reclaim control of their mental health and emotional well-being.

“Every time I was at the program, I felt heard and was learning new information on how to deal with different situations in my life,” says Julinda.

“Every time I was at the program, I felt heard and was learning new information on how to deal with different situations in my life,” says Julinda.

Through twelve weeks of intensive sessions, she delved into topics such as behaviour change, emotional regulation, and self-care.

“The program taught me how to create boundaries and learn to select what matters most,” she says. “The team at Humber taught me that taking care of ourselves first is key to be able to start caring for others.”

By August, Julinda felt ready to return to work with a newfound confidence and purpose. “My job has given me so much joy despite the hard work and the challenges we face daily by taking care of children’s different needs,” she says.

To those facing similar challenges, she offers this advice: “No matter how small the steps you take through the journey of healing, those steps will push you to see the light you are searching for.”

Julinda is profoundly grateful for the compassionate care and guidance she received on her mental health journey. Through the support of the dedicated professionals at Humber’s Taking Charge Program and the power of resilience, she now feels a great sense of purpose and gratitude for her life.