We recently had the pleasure of welcoming back a true inspiration to our Neuro community: Mac. Mac’s story is a powerful reminder that while the journey through mental health struggles can be challenging, it is absolutely possible to emerge stronger, more capable, and ready to embrace life’s bright side.
We recently had the pleasure of welcoming back a true inspiration to our Neuro community: Mac. Mac’s story is a powerful reminder that while the journey through mental health struggles can be challenging, it is absolutely possible to emerge stronger, more capable, and ready to embrace life’s bright side.
When Mac first came to NeuroRestorative Academy in Illinois, he was battling severe depression and suicidal ideation. The darkness felt consuming. But over the course of his two-year program, Mac didn’t just learn to cope—he built a foundation for a successful, fulfilling life.
He dove into our programs, mastering essential life skills like creating impactful presentations and participating in our job training program. Since graduating, Mac has held a steady job in customer service for two years, a testament to the growth and stability he achieved. Despite struggling with grades and anxiety in the beginning, he graduated with a 3.91 GPA.
When asked about his success, and Mac points directly to his continued commitment to therapy. For Mac, his therapist was the key—they worked together through art, deep conversation, and unwavering encouragement. Mac’s biggest takeaway, and the message he shared when he recently spoke to our current students, is this: It is vital to know that it’s okay to lean into others for support—especially your therapist. Mac candidly shared a moment when he was in a truly dark place. Instead of retreating, he chose to be open with our team members. They listened, provided the
necessary support, and helped adjust his medications. That experience was a profound lesson: opening up is a good thing, even if it feels incredibly difficult. “I want to provide support and let people know they are not alone,” Mac shared.
Mac acknowledges that confidence is the hardest part about being open. It’s a vulnerable, and sometimes anxiety inducing act. But his advice is practical and kind: “Start slow. It’s like practice interviews. It’s normal to feel anxious and overwhelmed.” He suggests starting small, perhaps saying, “I’m feeling really down. Is there anything I could do to keep me occupied?” You can go into depth later, but the most important thing is simply expressing your feelings. The kind, peaceful, helpful, and hopeful environment at NeuroRestorative played a huge role in his transformation.
He praised the well-trained, aware staff, and said they made making connections easy.
As a trans man, Mac saw the need for a safe space within the school for the LGBTQ+ community. So, he started the Pride Group at NeuroRestorative. During their monthly meetings, the group provides a safe space where everyone feels accepted and be open, making meaningful connections.
Mac’s most significant accomplishment is perhaps the most personal one: The confidence to be himself. The skills he learned here have helped him outside of NeuroRestorative, enabling him to make real, meaningful connections at work and even with his neighbors. Mac acknowledges that there will be tough times in life, but with support, openness, and effort, there is also a vibrant, bright side.
Thank you, Mac, for sharing your story and for reminding all of us that vulnerability is a strength, and the greatest gift you can give yourself is the permission to be truly seen.
