Years of bullying and low self-esteem made Julia forget what it was like to feel happy. Hopelessness turned into self-harm and into a string of suicide attempts that left Julia wondering why she hated herself. Asking this question changed Julia’s mindset, and she eventually found hope and happiness through volunteer work. Youth Villages Program Director for Crisis Services Raquel Shutze explains there is hope through connection. Learn how Julia changed her life through connections with fellow volunteers, LifeSet and therapeutic animals on this episode of Stronger Than You Think.  

Since the interview–Julia is on track to graduate May 2023 from Southern New Hampshire University with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Julia and her fiance recently purchased their first home together. After graduation, she plans to get her master's degree in social work. 

Links from the show:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988-273-8255 
• Learn more about all the programs at Youth Villages here.
• Join the force for families. 101 locations across 23 states and the District of Columbia. Check out open positions near you.

Full show description:

• www.youthvillages.org/podcast   

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