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Lena recounts decades-long struggle with depression, credits medication and vocational supports
Summary
A Sacramento teacher named Lena described early-onset depression, hospitalization in 2003, and recovery supported by medication, therapy and Department of Rehabilitation services including a job coach.
Lena, a 46-year-old Sacramento teacher and UC Davis graduate, described a lifetime of depression and anxiety that began in childhood and culminated in a severe episode at age 24. She told the DAC audience she had her first suicidal thought at 12 and was hospitalized in December 2003; she credited treatment and medication with stabilizing her condition and described how recovery allowed her to resume work and volunteer activities.
Lena also described employment struggles after hospitalization and said the Department of Rehabilitation connected her with a job coach who helped with ADA rights and workplace accommodations. "Treatment works. Recovery happens," she said. Lena encouraged others to seek help early and described practical coping strategies she uses now, including therapy, exercise and structured routines.
