I have been in recovery for 6 years. I chose to be off all meds at this time because the Dr. kept prescribing more medication for any little thing I told her. So at one point I was up to 9 meds a day. I definitely wouldn't recommend anyone to stop their meds, I wish I would of tapered off but I didn't. I work at the same hospital I stayed in for a year, my parents gave me to the state and I was committed there. Before working there I asked to take a tour of the hospital and more specifically the room I stayed in. I was not triggered by the hospital, my old room or any of the peers. I knew then I could do the job. After working full time for the first few months I became overwhelmed, not by the peers by the staff. I would sit in report where all the Dr.'s, Psychologists and Social Workers talk about each peer in great detail. The staff would, laugh, joke and roll their eyes about certain peers. This is what is difficult. I came to understand that even though they have been through years of school they simply dont understand MI the way I do. I would take a tour of the place first then slowly start to volunteer. I have been working for over a year now and have never been triggered, even when a peer punched me in the back. I slowly turned around and asked him what was the matter. The voices told him to do it. I told him he didnt have to listen to them, I know I have voices too. He said, "Really, I dont have to listen to them?" We started talking and he got much better over time. We need more Peer Support for people diagnosed with mental health challenges. I love empowering and inspiring people to live the life they want to. Much love and peace.