Written Testimonials

You should absolutely go. It’s amazing the skill/tools one can learn while building a foundation for your mental wellness. - Jessica

I think that the program is great and very helpful. I would recommend it to anyone that are struggling with her anxiety and then skills to deal with it. - Piper

Group therapy in itself can be scary and intimidating, but this has honestly been the best decision I’ve ever made in my life. Keep perspective on the situation as well, what is six weeks versus a full lifetime of skills and healthy coping mechanisms you can use to take back control of your life. -Nikki

I was immobilized with anxiety. I was hesitant but decided to attend. While my anxiety isn't gone, I have the tools to deal with the pain it was causing me. -Tina

Do it! Don’t wait-start now. If you struggle with anxiety, this program is for you. I’ll be able to apply the coping skills I learned in this program for the rest of my life. - Angie

I would tell them to know that in time, thought processes can change so to keep practicing skills. - Bernadette

Do it! Anyone struggling with anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, etc. should invest in this program. The instructors are very compassionate, supportive and incredibly knowledgeable! This was a life saving and life changing experience for me. - Amanda L

Have patience with yourself as you go through this program. The first couple days of group are really tough but power through. Everyone has felt that way, but after a few sessions sharing becomes easier and it is helpful to talk through your issues. -Anonymous

I’ve been to other mental health IOPs and feel this was the best one for me yet. I have learned skills I can use life long. I encourage you to take a step out of your comfort zone and do it! It is a life changing program. - Anonymous

With the tools I have learned at Renew, I am able to function each day without becoming overwhelmed with emotions that ultimately lead to isolation. Making the decision to take part in this program will be the best decision you make. Now that I have completed the Anxiety Center at Renew, I am no longer living negatively and focusing on not doing things but instead living each day for what it is. - Anonymous

You will probably get off to a bad start and it will be difficult, but keep going and things will get better. - Anonymous

I would strongly recommend this program. Prior to taking this class I was suffering from anxiety that kept me from doing the things I wanted to do in life. After 6 weeks of this program, anxiety no longer has a hold of me. I was able to manage my anxiety and do the things I wanted to do. - CC

Listen and take in as much info as possible. You get out of the program what you put into it. - Jeff S

Celebrate victories-give yourself credit for punching your anxiety in the face. Practicing works-doing it for the little stuff makes the hard stuff easier. The idea of being in a place bad enough to come here and then come out 6 weeks later 100% able to keep it together all the time as the “expectation” is, again, like trying to climb a mountain after learning to walk; you’re going to fall down. It’s not wrong if you fall down; it’s expected. -EM

I was very anxious all of the time and couldn’t focus on anything. I am still anxious, I just choose to ride out the anxiety by deep breathing, listening to music, etc. -Dane

This is life changing. The skills and strategies you learn will help you be able to cope with your anxiety. What do you have to lose if this doesn’t work, because avoiding everything isn't the answer either. - Anonymous

When you leave you will have so many tools under your belt to help you work through your anxiety. It may be scary the first couple of nights but push through because everyone in the group is so supportive and I promise no one is judging you. This is an amazing program that is definitely worth taking. - Elia

For someone thinking about starting the program, I would say don’t stay surface level and skim the course. If you fulling dip into the program you will learn new angles for familiar topics. - Anonymous

Before starting the program, I had very bad social anxiety. It kept me from doing things and it was a strain on my relationships. Now that I have completed the program, the anxiety is still there but the program has shown me how to deal with it so that it doesn’t totally shut me down. For anyone starting the program, I would recommend it. The program works as long as you apply yourself and give it a chance. - Craig

Before the Anxiety IOP, I was really depressed and anxious. Now that I have completed the program, I am mindful every day without much effort. I feel mostly comfortable in my own skin, and I’m working hard at improving my skills of self compassion and defusion. I often remind myself that I am worthwhile and think positively about my life and relationships with others. I spend less time overwhelmed and anxious. - Audrey

Before the Anxiety IOP, my days were filled with anxiety and depression. I could not see past it. Now that I have completed the program, I have learned ways to defuse from my negative thoughts and make room for my negative feelings. Most of the time, I feel comfortable in my own skin and no longer feel the constant need to punish myself. Instead I use my values to guide my actions. To anyone who is thinking about starting the program I would tell them it's hard and uncomfortable at times, but it has taught me many skills to help me live my life with anxiety as opposed to fighting it all the time. - Mary

Before the Anxiety IOP, there was so much fear in my life-worry, relationships, friendships, catastrophizing. Now that I have completed the program: my thoughts are manageable, I’m able to see the positive, live in the present, accept and defuse thoughts, know my values and who I am, be more open to relationships. To anyone who is thinking about starting the program I would tell them that if you are someone that constantly is stuck or stalled in one gear, Renew is perfect for you. - Anonymous

I have learned to give up some control and realize trying to control everything around me pushes me from my values. For someone starting the program, it might seem like you don’t need to or want to but it really helps. There are a lot of tools you are given and you meet lots of people dealing with similar issues. - Anonymous

Before starting the Anxiety IOP, I was depressed and anxious constantly, afraid I was going to feel this way forever. Now that I have completed the IOP, I am able to accept my anxiety and I have learned to be patient and compassionate towards myself. - Anonymous

I would say do it! This is such a beautiful opportunity and an amazing environment to grow, learn, and heal. You are with others that understand the way you think/feel, and they empathize with your pain. This is a safe place to challenge your unhealthy mindsets/behaviors. - Grace

Before I started IOP, I spent about 90% of my day avoiding mental and physical discomfort.. I constantly felt like a failure – that I was not doing enough and I was not good enough. I felt helpless and could not find anything that made me feel better. Now I understand that I struggle with anxiety and I have gained a sense of self, and this has helped me get through a lot of difficult emotions because I know I am more than what I feel/think/see/accomplish at any given time. - Megan

To anyone starting the program, I would say it's a great program. I have learned great techniques to help when having a thought or feeling. You will always have anxiety but the group helped on how to handle it in a healthy way. I have now realized that I am not alone with having anxiety and negative thoughts. It’s common with the healing process to get worse before you get better. I recommend being fully engaged and finish the program for the best outcome. - Marcy

It is very helpful to be in a group that understands what you are going through and can relate. I gained the tools of acceptance and defusion that help me to live with my anxiety and I identified my values so I can live more fully. - Elizabeth

My life before IOP was an absolute trainwreck. I couldn’t function, sleep, or work. I would be in constant panic 24/7. My life now is a lot better. Yes, I still panic from time to time. But Renew gave me coping skills to get through my difficult times. Rome wasn’t built in a day. I still have to work on my recovery. - Megan

I was really reluctant and hesitant to do group therapy, but I have completely changed my opinion of group therapy. This has been the best experience, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. Advice I would give to someone starting the program is to volunteer every chance you encounter in group. I believe you get as much out of the program as you put in, so push yourself and do as much as you possibly can. - Anonymous

Now that I have completed the program, I have moved to a place of stability, able to relax and enjoy time with my family. I have pulled back from the need to complete a list to relax, to feel a sense of accomplishment. I believe the improvement I have made and where I am mentally would take at least a year (if not ever) to get to where I am today. I truly thank the Lord for this course and my family does as well. - Shelby

Before starting the Anxiety Center’s IOP I had no way to cope and/or manage my anxiety and depression. Now that I have completed the program, I have techniques and skills to use in my everyday life. For anyone starting the program, I would say that if it would be beneficial at all, then do it. - Grant

Before starting the Anxiety Center’s IOP I was not true to myself and those worries surrounding my identity caused a lot of anxiety and depression. Now that I have completed the program, I have been able to communicate with my social support and identify the aspects of my life that are causing me to not live in my values. I have been able to identify the values most important to me and develop a plan to continue to work toward achieving all my goals. For anyone starting the program, I would say that anxiety CAN be managed in healthy ways that allow for a fulfilled life. - Anonymous

For anyone starting the program, I would say that even it it’s paralyzingly terrifying, interact with others (as cheesy at that sounds). Get involved. Your fears and worries are valid but they DON’T have to consume you. If you can get past the first day, you can get past the rest. The skills and notes you make here can help the people around you. This program not only affects you but everything around you. - Haley

Before starting the Anxiety Center’s IOP, my life was an ongoing wave of anxiety that I was unable to emotionally cope with. I never felt that my behavior was a choice and certainly didn’t know how to sit with my painful emotions. Now, I have been able to determine what my values are, and what the life I want to live looks like. I will always have the anxiety, but no longer feel like it defines me. - Christine

Before starting the Anxiety Center’s IOP my life was a complete mess-at least mentally. Now that I have completed the program, I feel like I am in much more control of my reactions to my thoughts. For anyone starting the program, really take in the class and the information being taught. Learn from and value your group members too. Be consistent in attending and try your best to do your homework. Be patient and it will help. - Carmen

Before starting the Anxiety Center’s IOP, every morning I would wake up and immediately have a panic attack or I would wake up feeling fine and my mind would begin looking for something to worry about. Now that I have completed the program, I still experience anxiety, but I now have the tools to manage it. playing with my dogs, exercising and focusing on the things that are really important. For anyone starting the program, I would say it’s hard at first. I’d equate it to going to the gym. When you think about going, you try to talk yourself out of it, but once you get there, you’re really glad you didn’t skip it. It is beneficial and it’s nice to know you’re not alone. - Tara

Before starting the IOP, I was in a lot of despair. My life was turned upside down and I felt as though I was drowning. My thoughts and feelings were dictating my everyday life. Now that I have completed the Anxiety IOP program, I have learned many things about myself and the strength I have. It really changed my thoughts of myself and how to deal with my anxiety. Learning about what my true values and beliefs are and accepting them and knowing how to move forward while living with purpose. - Sharon

Before starting the IOP, I was dissociating all the time, shaking at random and constantly worried about how I was going to survive the day. I was in so much denial about the role anxiety played in my life. I had stopped living and was on complete survival mode. Now that I have completed the Anxiety IOP program, my day to day life looks completely different after having finished the program. I now direct my life with my values in mind and take action that align with my overall purpose and end goal in mind. Life is much easier. - Hannah

Before starting the IOP, I was just really unconfident about myself. Now that I have completed the Anxiety IOP program, while I still have anxiety and issues with confidence, IOP has taught me a lot of ways to cope with it so that it doesn’t hold me back. For anyone starting the program, I would say that the most important thing is to allow yourself to be vulnerable. That is what is going to allow you to be the most successful. - Shaina

Overall what I truly gained from Renew are life skills which I hope to always carry with me. For anyone starting the program, you will get out of it what you put into it. The program is time consuming and at times uncomfortable but it does put some light at the end of the tunnel. And I don’t feel as if after six weeks suddenly I am cured of my anxiety. But I do feel like now I have the tools to better understand and cope with my anxiety. There is no magic button, but Renew definitely points you in the right direction. - Sahar

Before starting the IOP, I didn’t have any skills to cope with my anxiety. But now I have lots of skills to use in order to cope with my anxiety. Now that I have completed the Anxiety IOP program, I have skills and tools to help me cope with my anxiety. For anyone starting the program, I would tell them it is worth the time and work. -Holly

Before starting the IOP, my anxiety was so bad that I was barely able to function. Now that I have completed the Anxiety IOP program, I have better coping skills with my anxiety by using defusion, separating myself from the emotions I feel and better grounding techniques. I have my creativity back and feel like I am thriving. - McKenzie

Before starting the IOP, my anxiety was at a 10. Now my anxiety is at about a 2. Now that I have completed the Anxiety IOP program, I have time to do other things in my life. For anyone thinking about starting the program, I would tell them to stick with it and be open. - Anonymous

Before starting the IOP, I felt like there is no hope for recovery. I was constantly afraid of things such as driving, social media, social situations, and life in general. Now, I feel like I can accept that my thoughts and feelings don’t run my life and may or may not be accurate. - Courtney

Before starting the program my life was debilitating. I was always afraid of the next panic attack, I was terrified of dying, and I would never leave the house. Now that I’ve completed the program, I feel more confident in my life as far as living with my anxiety and being able to function with it. For anyone thinking about the program, I would suggest asking to consider it. The program is a life changer. - Anonymous

Before starting the program, it was almost constant physical anxiety. Now that I’ve completed the program, I can go about my daily life and not be constantly weighed down by anxiety. It hasn’t gone away completely, and I still have moments where I get anxious, but I have learned ways to cope and deal with it. Renew has taught me so much about anxiety and OCD and in turn, so much about myself. - Hanna

Before starting the IOP, I would get anxiety over the smallest things. Now that I’ve completed the program, I have better tools and understanding of what anxiety is for me, and how I can overcome it. For anyone thinking about starting the program, I would say be open, honest and true to yourself. No one will judge you. You will even walk away with no connections and friends! - Julia

Before starting the Anxiety Program at Renew I was anxious and on edge. Now that I’ve completed the program, I have learned tools and techniques to use when I’m having a panic attack or I’m feeling very anxious. - Anonymous

Before starting the Anxiety Program at Renew, I was sleeping all day everyday. Quality of life was compromised to say the least. Now that I’ve completed the program, life now isn’t perfect but I have learned some real skills that help make life manageable. I feel I’m on the right track. What I would say to anyone thinking about starting the program is what do you have to lose? You have much more to gain. - Sherie

Before starting IOP program my life was hell. I didn’t know how to express my emotions and I was so anxious and depressed I didn’t want to be alive anymore. Now that I’ve completed the program I have learned some great coping skills and I also have become self-aware as to when I’m avoiding tasks. Still a lot of work ahead but I feel my anxiety and depression have lowered tremendously. For anyone thinking about starting the program I would say do it and don’t look back. - Gabe

When I started life was tough. My anxiety stopped me from talking to people, leaving the house and going to school. Now I’ve got some hope of going back to school, I’ve got the skills to stop this. If you start the program and aren't sure about it, just show up! - Jack S.

Prior to the IOP program I had anxiety every day. I could barely leave the house or be around other people. I suffered from anxiety and panic attacks almost daily. Now that I have completed the program I have so much hope and positivity about myself and my future. I now have so many tools and ways I can help myself. Life has become purposeful and exciting for me. The program has taught me not to only stop beating myself up for the things I can’t control but also to learn to love myself all over again. To someone who is thinking about starting the program I would tell them to absolutely try it! It is filled with amazing mentors and other people who are not only compassionate but understanding. Everyone deserves to live happy and worry free … so why not try it! - Gracelyn N.

Before IOP I was very depressed I was unable to even recognize my anxiety. Now I have coping mechanisms and have the tools to manage life. To someone thinking about starting, I wish I had this earlier in life. It would have helped me with so many things. - Anonymous

Before starting IOP I was constantly battling suicidal thoughts, I did everything I could to make them go away but they kept getting worse. I did not feel connected to others in my friendships, my mood was depressed and anxious, I was not happy. Now I feel like a new person, I rarely have suicidal thoughts and am able to manage intrusive thoughts. I feel connected to my friends and I feel happy in the present moment. To anyone thinking about starting, it is well worth your time. The community aspect of the group is a necessary part to heal from anxiety. The mindfulness skills take time to practice but they really do change your brain- AMAZING! - Dana

Before beginning IOP at Renew, I was having anxiety and panic attacks at least once a day. Something as simple as a door slamming could send my thoughts spiraling for hours. Since beginning the program, I have found myself being a lot more present in the moment. Using the tools, I have learned, I have been able to enjoy the experience and plan a future for myself that I never saw myself having before. To anyone thinking about starting, take the leap to heal yourself because you deserve it. The life that you dream of is possible and it’s waiting on the other side of all your struggles. - Natalie

My life was hell. I pushed everyone away and was angry and violent. I could not control my anxiety, and my depression was so bad I lost all interest in life itself. I had lost all hope for myself and felt like I could never get better. Now that I’ve completed the IOP, I now have the tools to defuse my anxiety and depression and feel like the world is a brighter place. I get to see my kids, and my relationship with my fiancé is no longer a mess. We are all happy and I don’t know what would have happened if I had not gotten help. Trust the program and do the work. It will amaze you that just by learning and listening how much your life will change! - Jennifer V.

Before I started at Renew, I had full blown panic attacks that sent me to the ER. I was crippled by my past and childhood and the way I was raised. Now that I have completed the program, I have built short term relationships with those whom I shared trauma and listened to theirs. I have felt the love and compassion of the group leaders. They have helped me and given me the tools and motivation to get better. I have found joy and love in my wife and kids and want to stay alive to see them grow and me die of old age. To someone starting the program, I know you are struggling, have been hurt, and you are suffering. You are safe here. You are loved here. It takes a strong person to put down their pride, seek humility and work to get treatment. Therapy is a GOOD thing. You are not weak for seeking it. Trust in Renew Counseling. You will find healing here one way or another. - Samuel S.

Before being in the program I lacked the skills to be able to sit back and defuse. Anxiety, fear, compulsions, and racing thoughts were the norm for me, and I would often let my anxiety get the best of me. It interfered with my relationships and my job. Now that I have completed the program, I really think I understand and can implement ACT skills as well as focus and redirect to my values. I have hope that I can continue to get better and move forward. I am extremely grateful for the counselors and everything I have learned. For someone who is starting the program, put in the work and do personal treatment “homework” like journaling, and continue working with your individual therapist. - Anonymous

My life prior to starting Renew Anxiety IOP was a life of uncertainty, confusion, hopelessness, and loss. I never knew how impactful anxiety was and how it could alter one’s life. I was constantly full of fear and worry. I still experience anxiety, but now I have the tools to champion it. I walk away from Renew as a vibrant man with renewed focus, confidence, and energy to get my life back. I would strongly encourage anyone experiencing anxiety to attend this IOP program. Renew has an excellent therapists, counselors, and leaders. In addition, Renew provides you with a lot of tools and techniques to combat anxiety and make one’s life better, but you must attend and put in the work in order for it to be effective. - Hosea H.

My life was nearly unmanageable due to debilitating depression and anxiety. Each morning I was disappointed to wake up and have to face another day. I felt devoid of any emotion except anger and fear, and I was terrified of my feelings. For the first time in over 40 years, I feel like I might be discovering who I truly am and more importantly, finding my purpose in this life. The people at Renew are open, non-judgmental, and truly interested in my well-being. The best thing about going to Renew is that it gives me back my faith in humanity. Through friendships in the program I have learned that everyone goes through their own struggles and it helped me to be less judgmental of myself. Life is something to be enjoyed, not something to endure. My biggest piece of advice is to be open and let down your guard. Also, you get out of it what you put into it. - Vanessa M

While trying to navigate life and all its challenges, my depression grew and grew and so did the anxiety. I just chose to do what was easier to bear than do what was right for me. I second guessed every decision I made over and over, and it sucked the joy and satisfaction right out of my life. Through this program I have been able to accept and work through the things that prevented me from starting in 2018. Even after taking a week off, I came back without giving up, which is a major victory for me. I don’t really know that there is any other way to show how much I have changed, and how much I hope to improve and keep changing because of Renew. Renew is a place where you feel safe, unjudged, unpressured, and finally accepted as who you are. You don’t have to hold back or hesitate to ask for help. If you are willing to be open minded, listen, participate, and be vulnerable, you will see a change. It will take time and persistence but give yourself this chance! To be honest, it has truly given me hope that I can have a life. A better life. - Uma

Before I started IOP, I was not in the driver’s seat of my life. I had anxiety and depression and it was crippling. I was stuck trying to think my way out and that only left me more exhausted. I lived a life based on what others wanted me to do and I never cut myself any slack on my mistakes. Now that I’ve completed the program, I feel I have the tools I need to live a fulfilling life. I still have anxiety, but now I have the tools to continue to engage the world, relationships, and my life in spite of the difficult days. I feel free. Now, I’m able to live in the present. The fellow IOP participants are incredible and beautiful people who will accept you and make you feel understood and safe. The group leaders care about you greatly. Be patient and give yourself grace. Celebrate the small wins, reward yourself, and love yourself. You'll wake up and realize you’re a new person. - Brandon S.

Before Renew, you probably wouldn’t have known I suffered from so much anxiety. I was good at putting on a brave face, but I reached a point where this didn’t work anymore. I felt so lonely and misunderstood. I was never able to feel fully present or relaxed when I should be. After Renew, I have a new outlook on my life with anxiety. I no longer feel alone, and have learned so much from the people in group. My anxiety will never disappear, but I feel like I have so much power over it now. Renew put me back in a place to take control and live my life the way I want to. If you are thinking of starting Renew, just do it. There will never be a perfect time to start, and it does take up time, but you will not be sorry. Everyone wants the best for you and will help you grow. Put yourself, your happiness, health, and relationships first and complete the Renew program--it is worth every minute - Anonymous

Before Renew, I was a mess. 2020 was a horrible year to me, and I felt like the world was collapsing down on me. I needed to talk to someone to help me put my life back on track and figure out my next step. After completing the program at Renew, I have hope. I have tools I can use to help me when things arise that I was unable to deal with previously. It has been a long time since I could say “I’m proud of myself.” There will always be bumps in the road but I will prevail. To anyone starting the program, I would say that the therapists do a great job in giving you the tools to be able to cope with anxiety. You must be open to all they teach. You won’t regret walking through the door and giving it a chance. - Michelle C.

Before Renew, my anxiety attacks would start as soon as I got up in the morning, and I would have several throughout the day. My biggest fear was that I would lose my wife and kids. After Renew, I can say that I can deal better with my anxiety with the tools taught in the program. I still have anxiety, but they aren’t as severe and don’t last as long and are becoming less frequent. I know that I will keep using these tools, keep reading and learning about ACT for the rest of my life. I’m not sure what will happen with my wife and I, but I know that I have support and that I’m not alone to deal with my struggles. Come into the program with an open mind to learn and try new things. Don’t be afraid to share your pain and suffering as no one in the program will judge you. You need to be open and honest with yourself. All the therapists are kind and caring and are here to support you along the way. - Anonymous

Before Renew, my life felt like going into battle without a weapon, trying to sing without a voice, or trying to run without legs. In every anxious situation, I would feel unequipped to deal with anything. I spent a lot of time learning to manage my anxiety but would still be trapped by it in the moment. I was ashamed of my feelings, and my inability to deal with my issues. Since going through the six weeks at renew, I will not lie and say that everything is sunshine, rainbows, and puppies. I still have plenty of anxiety over large and trivial things. What the program has done for me is helped me finally manage and move forward with my anxiety, rather than feel controlled or trapped by it all the time. I will not always get it right, but at least now I feel like I am heading into battle with some good weapons to use, with a voice to sing with, and with two good legs to run on. To those beginning the program, I would ask: Are you willing to be open and honest, and willing to put in effort? If so, I believe this program can help you. It’s a big commitment, and a lot of hard work. It is not the magical cure-all; nothing is. Going through the program will not suddenly make your anxiety go away, but it will give you the skills to better understand and live with your anxiety and put yourself back in charge of your life. Believe you can do it, and you will. You got this. - Chris S.

Before Renew, I was surviving, not living. Each day was exhausting and I had no motivation or direction. I hated myself and I was ashamed that I had not accomplished more in life than just being a wife and mother. I realized that I am looking forward to the future these days and looking forward to finding myself again. I have the hope and confidence that I can reach my goals and will be able to enjoy the journey. This program will give you the foundation and skills to work towards becoming the person you want to be and live the life you want to live, even if you’re unsure of what that looks like right now. You will be in a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a group of empathetic and understanding people. It is hard work but Renew has helped to dig me out of my spiral and I have more hope and direction in my life. - Joyce O.

My life before Renew was full of doubt, extreme worry, hopelessness, fear, and panic. My anxiety paralyzed me and took so much away from my quality of life. Renew has given me many tools and strategies that I will continue to use. My life will not be 100% free of anxiety, but I can remember and use what I have learned. I would recommend that anyone who is seeking to lower their anxiety and use new skills to give renew an honest try. The counselors are so hopeful and kind, and I feel they truly care about your outcome. - Anonymous

Before starting IOP, my OCD would take over before I even realized. Being present or mindful did not even exist to me. I had no worth and thought low of myself. I could tell you what I was diagnosed with, how it started but I could not tell you how I lived with it; I was not living with it. I was imprisoned by it. My perspective has shifted so much. Now I know what to do, how to fight back. The perseverance is the key to victory. When conflict arises, I have the tools to cope and keep on with my life. My values are now my constants that help me know what to do. I wish I could tell you it gets better, but it doesn’t get better. You get better. - Anonymous

Before I started this group, I honestly had no hope for myself. I didn’t have any reason to get out of bed in the morning, and just felt empty and alone. The biggest change is noticing that I am not alone. This plays a big part in my motivation. I have more of a drive to get things done and get better. I’ve reached a point where I want to begin to move on in my life, even though it will still be tough. If you are thinking about starting it, you should. You’ll get so many skills that help with anxiety and depression. Just know it isn’t a miracle cure, but it does give you the tools you need to start bettering yourself. - Jacob K.

Before renew, I was in a job that was very toxic. As anxiety would build up, I would internalize the feelings and try to avoid reality. The stress started to affect my health, my ability to concentrate was compromised, and my heart and thoughts would race. Although I am unable to finish the entire program, I have gained some tools to recognize and deal with anxiety. I understand now that anxiety never goes away. It’s how we choose to deal with it that determines if it will have a lasting effect going forward. Even if you don’t attend this group, talk with someone as soon as possible. Many people struggle with anxiety--more than you realize. Take time to deal with it. - Anonymous

Don’t lose hope. Join the program and participate. You will feel like you won’t get better but you will if you only try. Renew is a good place to begin, but once it’s complete, it’s up to you to use what you’ve learned to your advantage. - Sunny S.

Before Renew, every day was a struggle. I would wake up with no drive to do anything. I would call into work 3-4x/week. I let physical symptoms control my life. It seemed like nothing I was doing would make it better. I was taking Xanax at the smallest symptom just to make it through the day. Now that I have completed the program, I wake up most days with purpose and drive. I am in control of my physical symptoms rather than the other way around. Even though work is still hard, I know it’s only a steppingstone to something better. Invest in yourself. It’s worth it. You have to spend every day with yourself, so it might as well be enjoyable. The skills and values I have learned here will stay with me the rest of my life. - Macee C.

The best word to describe me before starting the program would have been confused. I was constantly told that I was overreacting and thinking about it too much, and I began to tell myself the same thing. The panic attacks were horrible. Now that I have completed the program at Renew, I still worry and have anxiety, but instead of going overboard, I can take a minute to look at the situation and what I have learned. Learning my values was absolutely huge to me, and I now have a path! To someone starting, I would say give it a try. I am so happy that I stuck with it. I have learned a lot about who I am and what I can do to keep my anxiety and depression manageable. - Keith

Before I started IOP, I spent hours and days consumed by anxiety. I have a lot of fears and my anxiety kept me on high alert almost all the time. My life now is much better. I’m no longer hiding behind a fake smile. I still have anxiety, but the tools I've learned helps keep my head above water. Take that step. You gain so much. - Jessica K.

Before Renew, my life was a struggle. Living alone during a pandemic, in a new city with no connections sent me down a rabbit hole of misery, fear, and an endless loop of convincing myself the worst was about to happen. The only explanation was that I was going crazy and this is what the rest of my life was going to be like. I can’t express how much renew has changed my life. I was reminded of my purpose in life. I knew if I let anxiety win, I would not be able to do the things that bring me happiness. To anyone experiencing anxiety, be kind to yourself. The best thing a person who is suffering can do is get help. Dive in headfirst, don’t hold back, and make it messy. I promise it will start to feel better the more open and vulnerable you are. - Vanessa M.