“I’ve struggled with depression for most of my life,” said Lauren, a 78-year-old retired nurse and longtime Stoneham resident.

“During those times, I would try to focus on the good things in my life: my large extended family, my work at a VA hospital, and my passion for painting.” Lauren was able to manage her depression…until recently.

Within the last few years, Lauren’s depression worsened and recently a time came when it was completely debilitating. “I felt so low that I didn’t leave my bed for three weeks,” Lauren said.

Fortunately, Lauren reached out to Mystic Valley Elder Services and connected with our Mobile Mental Health team. She started a partnership with Emily, her clinical caseworker, and they have been working together ever since.

Emily made an initial home visit and connected Lauren to critical mental health services. Now, a therapist from a local mental health organization makes home visits for ongoing intensive therapy and a physician regularly reviews her anti-depressant medication prescriptions.

And Emily continues to check in with Lauren, by phone and in person, to maintain their relationship and to see whether Lauren needs any additional services from the Mobile Mental Health program or from Mystic Valley’s wide array of other home care programs.

Lauren is one of 500 community members who received support this past year through our Mobile Mental Health program, 70% of whom are served with the help of private fundraising dollars. Your generosity makes this vital program a reality.

Lauren acknowledged that not every day is easy. “There are ups and downs…and Mystic Valley Elder Services has helped me with both the ups and the downs.”

Please note: While our Mobile Mental Health team connects individuals to critical mental health resources, we are not a suicide hotline service. If you are having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Samaritans hotline at 1-877-870-HOPE (1-877-870-4673) or dial 911.