Surviving and Thriving: A Story of Overcoming Mental Health Challenges

In a world where mental health struggles often remain hidden, one person’s courageous journey sheds light on the importance of asking for help, breaking stigma, and finding hope. This is the story of Quentin, who faced the depths of depression, survived a suicide attempt, and emerged stronger, determined to live his best life.

The Early Signs

Quentin’s story began in sixth grade, a time when many children are encouraged to start dreaming about their future. For Quentin, these questions about college and career led to a wave of self-doubt. “I never really had any plans,” he shared, reflecting on how those doubts spiraled into feelings of anxiety and depression.

By seventh grade, those emotions took a darker turn. He began self-harming, seeking a way to feel something other than the heaviness of his depression. The cutting continued into eighth grade, when a concerned teacher noticed changes in Quentin’s behavior. Teachers aren’t always trained to recognize the signs of depression, but subtle shifts, like disengagement or anxiety, stood out.

When Anxiety and Depression Collide

Quentin’s anxiety was a constant companion. Everyday worries—like doing well on a test or pleasing his friends—built into an overwhelming storm. He described how this anxiety manifested physically: “I would wake up at 5:30, eat breakfast, and then go outside before the bus came and throw up everything I just ate.”

The mental and physical toll of his anxiety became unbearable. “It felt like a pit in my stomach,” Quentin said, describing the sensation as something no X-ray could detect, yet painfully real.

The Turning Point

Feeling isolated and believing he couldn’t talk about his struggles, Quentin began making plans to end his life. On one dark night, he took his family’s shotgun and walked outside, ready to act. His parents noticed something was wrong—the light in their usually closed office was on—and ran to find him.

The moments that followed were a blur of fear and heartbreak. His father called 911, and when police arrived, they pleaded with Quentin to drop the weapon. In a moment that changed everything, Quentin unintentionally left the safety on, preventing the shot from ending his life. Instead, he suffered a severe injury to his stomach and leg.

Through tears, Quentin’s mother remembers him saying, “Mommy, I’m sorry. I love you.”

The Road to Recovery

Quentin’s injury resulted in the loss of his leg, but it marked the beginning of a new chapter. While still in the hospital, he set a goal: to walk across the stage at his high school graduation. That goal became his driving force.

With determination, Quentin embraced physical therapy, learning to walk with a prosthetic. “Every day, he put that prosthetic on and worked toward his goal,” his mother said. His efforts inspired not just his family but everyone around him. When he finally walked across the stage at graduation, the gymnasium erupted in applause, a powerful testament to his resilience.

Life Today

Now in college and working at an architecture firm, Quentin is thriving. He’s pursuing his education, building a career, and living with a renewed sense of purpose. His story is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is hope.

Quentin’s journey has also inspired his family to advocate for mental health awareness. “We tell our story so other parents don’t have to cry those tears,” his mother said.

Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health

Quentin’s story underscores the need to treat mental health with the same urgency as physical health. “If your child breaks a bone, it’s an emergency. If your child is talking about self-harm, that’s also an emergency,” his mother explained.

She encourages parents and caregivers to ask the hard questions:

• “Are you thinking about hurting yourself?”
• “Are you thinking about ending your life?”

These conversations can open the door to getting help. Resources like the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provide 24/7 support not only for those in crisis but also for their loved ones.

Finding Joy in the Moment

Quentin has found new ways to cope, from playing video games to simply sitting outside and appreciating the weather. “I’ve learned to enjoy the moment instead of worrying about the future,” he shared.

His journey is a powerful reminder that with support, resilience, and hope, it’s possible to overcome even the most difficult challenges. Quentin’s story is a call to action—for parents, educators, and communities to come together, break the stigma, and ensure that no one feels they have to face their struggles alone.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 for free, confidential support.