Surviving Atrocities at a Mental Institution

Today on Unfiltered Stories, Banning Lyon shares his harrowing journey of enduring horrific abuse as a teenager behind the locked doors of a mental institution. Held captive as part of a horrific insurance scandal, Banning's story is an unapologetically honest account of survival and overcoming unspeakable trauma. His memoir reveals an unflinching yet unexpectedly relatable tale of redemption and finding family, even when everyone else seemed to have abandoned him. Join us to hear Banning's powerful story of resilience and hope.
#survivorstories #mentalhealth #overcomingtrauma
Follow Banning here:
Website: www.banninglyon.com
IG: @banningwrites
Book: www.penguinrandomhouse.com/bo...
Thank you for watching Unfiltered Stories! We offer a platform for our guests to speak openly about their life stories and journeys, shedding light on the challenges they faced and the resilience they've shown.
Our mission is to raise awareness about survivors by delving into their stories, exploring the impact of their experiences, and how they've managed to heal and rebuild their lives.
By sharing these stories, we aim to break the silence surrounding those challenging memories and create a compassionate environment.
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[@cucumberwhale]

Hospital calling basic human needs "privileges" breaks my heart.

[@WojciechowskaAnna]

a lot of violonece and psychical violenc is sadly done by "therapist". There is lots of bad therapists, even therapy to fix bad therapy :(

[@Dot-he2ke]

@@WojciechowskaAnna why I say asking for help killed me. Some understand and see what has come from it. Look at all the help that popped up for ADHD and ASD... $250 an hour or $5000 tests that treat nothing.

[@CancerianQueen333]

Being mistreated after being sent to a hospital for treatment is ridiculous. The hospital staff took advantage of the fact that they knew no one was present to support you.

[@evilbarbie2160]

Whats worse is having to work a job to survive AND pay for the therapy to get over their behavior, and having to get attorneys involved that make a 15-30% off of the victims compensation winning law suit, dealing with more trauma in the court system. The whole system has been corrupt since the beginning.

[@leneandersen4909]

Hugs for you

[@muma6559]

why aren't the criminal staff in prison ?

[@foxythecutefox2564]

This is unfortunately common even in birthing unit they can

[@maygrantz4426]

I'm sorry, dear of your ordeal that you were mistreated and our medical system has failed the patient,especially for a patient has being label with mental illness because you have an anxiety and depression. They have no respect and symphaty.Anyway, we must learn to advocate ourselves and talk to your lawyer. I want you to know that you are not alone. You must learn how to redeem your dignity and fight for it..stand up for yourself.

[@rocketeer2361]

Your parents failed you. They didn't put you first. I'm so sorry you had to endure this. 😔

[@pellesvansl]

Hospital failed him, what kind of evil people

[@Commentator488]

His father failed him

[@lowerself6689]

They did but him first, he chose to rebel.

[@Shayne_T]

@@lowerself6689how?? The mother said the place was too small, she rejected him.

[@Shayne_T]

@@lowerself6689you don’t kick your children out!

[@ajd8558]

No punishment on earth is enough for the doctors, nurses, administrators and others involved in this horror. The fact that the doctors tried to sue him for defamation after the law suit against them shows what monsters they are.

[@jacquelineentwistle5091]

The medical mental health services are sadistic and cruel there is no care I've been there I know what it's like experienced it so bad 🔥👍

[@jdjenny]

@@jacquelineentwistle5091what kind are you referring to? I wonder if you mean something like what I’ve experienced….

[@mcmurmies]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@Luciaonlinee]

They say that no joke, psychopaths, people born with psychopathic personality, make the best military, police, DOCTORS and politicians/businessman, because you need to be able to function in high stress situations while also still acting and thinking as if your own emotions aren't a factor. Literally the most successful people on earth are probably to some degree psyco, meaning born that way or socio, meaning made by trauma or life experiences, Pathic. It just works

[@user-uo5jw7lz5g]

​@@Luciaonlineethat's why psychopaths get to the top.in police council medical feilds drs gps nurses politicians

[@kysmik8214]

What I am hearing is that if you aren't crazy before you go IN a mental hospital, you surely will be when you come OUT of one!

[@mariekatherine5238]

Unless you’re the one that drives them crazy and they kick you out onto the street.

[@ahhhreelmonsters366]

define crazy

[@tatoreal6615]

most psychiatric institutions aren't like this

[@deadsushi4287]

*if* you manage to get out

[@Dot-he2ke]

The dsm 5 kills more than it helps

[@pinkopallinu9084]

I hope this man is no contact with his "family", what a betrayal

[@Shannonbarnesdr1]

true dat man ! i mean this poor soul got thrown away like a used paper towel, and was DX'd as crazy and unmanageable, when all he needed was a few hugs, to be heard, respected and valued; treated like a human being,

[@edithk2997]

This type of parents love to pop up into their kids life once they get too old to look after themselves

[@pinkopallinu9084]

@@edithk2997 Two words: nursing home

[@Commentator488]

You mean his DAD

[@pinkopallinu9084]

@@Commentator488 No, both

[@Hllee6428]

For a 52 yo who has gone through all that crap in his youth….he looks really good! 👍🏻

[@kitprojects]

yeah he is quite handsome and articulate

[@Mia-es1rp]

He really is

[@diyamerican]

He still looks like a kid!

[@laurenmastroviti6543]

Yeah! Wow, seriously.. He looks great.

[@gooiehoop20]

Banning is a good example of resilience. I admire him.

[@christinefrances5598]

I can relate to so much. I was hospitalized at a mental hospital at age 17. My parents were very provincial. Doctors were next to God. I am now age 70. I believe to this day the "professionals"made me more ill, over medicated me and kept me there until the insurance ran out, (months). Evil.

[@maygrantz4426]

Most Dr. has a God complex, they don't want you to question their authorities? Actually it takes two to work together between dr. and patient. Anyway,don't get me wrong they are good Dr. or even better. Dr. mantra don't do harm , but this mantra sometimes is not for every one.I'm not against Dr. actually and I appreciate their profession because they are suppose to help and cure patient.But what I can't stand when some of these Dr. are intitled, mistreated patients and violate your trust.I'm just saying...

[@patriciavandevelde5469]

Like lawyers!

[@maygrantz4426]

I'm sorry of your ordeal . Anyway, Drs are suppose to help and find cure but in every apples in the basket there is bad apple and it contaminate the other apples.

[@frankiefranfraser]

I was 17 too. For 3 weeks. I begged them to let me go until the week I said I need to stay a little bit longer 🤦‍♀️ they kicked me out and I was vulnerable and scared. They too gave me traumatic memories. Horrific 😢💔 Sending my love to you ❤

[@kristinesmart3134]

I am so devastated by reading your lifelong devastation. You deserve a tremendous payback in the next life ❤

[@rollingstone6699]

No child deserves to treated less than being loved, housed, clothed, fed and protected. AT ALL TIMES.

[@reneelibby4885]

most people shouldn't have them.

[@gointothedogs4634]

We've said this for decades, wrung our hands and pointed fingers, which hasn't fixed it. We need real solutions in our corrupt for-profit insurance system, changes in our educational system to break the cycle of human abuse, and laws to hold people accountable that send a clear message that this will not be tolerated. Until strict oversight holds people accountable, this won't change because human nature isn't always kind.

[@reneelibby4885]

@@gointothedogs4634 we also need free birth control and keeping abortion safe and legal

[@biddibee3526]

Happens more than you might think.

[@lynnjohnson1413]

It happens all the time way to frequently

[@mjay858]

A mental hospital is no place for a kid. They are still growing their brains and to put them in such an unnatural place is damaging!

[@lindamuller2801]

Thank you!!!!

[@KatieDeGo]

Jesus... how tf does putting someone in a chair for hours a day help their mental health recovery? I am so sorry you went through this 😢

[@loverainthunder]

It keeps them on paperwork as problematic so they can continue to milk insurance.

[@KatieDeGo]

@@loverainthunder I get that. I guess my question was rhetorical. Sorry 😞

[@vivieneng9882]

😢😢😢 I cried.

[@loverainthunder]

@KatieDeGo Oops, my fault. Best to you Katie 😂🤷🏽‍♀️

[@JesusLoves...]

Honestly Jesus knows it doesn't help their recovery

[@Di...747]

That facility was actively participating in child abuse! I hope they were closed down!

[@jessday.]

Imagine your parent looking you dead in the face and telling you that your staying there with them is a privilege. After YOU got put in the position to fill his empty space because he found a new life. 💔

[@Somusicais]

Psychedelics are just an exceptional mental health breakthrough. It's quite fascinating how effective they are against depression and anxiety. Saved my life.

[@HAMZAPINE]

Can you help with the reliable source I would really appreciate it. Many people talk about mushrooms and psychedelics but nobody talks about where to get them. Very hard to get a reliable source here in Australia. Really need!

[@ToniMonteroroman]

Yes, dr.porassss. I have the same experience with anxiety, depression, PTSD and addiction and Mushrooms definitely made a huge huge difference to why am clean today.

[@FabioPioFersini]

I wish they were readily available in my place. Microdosing was my next plan of care for my husband. He is 59 & has so many mental health issues plus probable CTE & a TBI that left him in a coma 8 days. It's too late now I had to get a TPO as he's 6'6 300+ pound homicidal maniac. He's constantly talking about killing someone. He's violent. Anyone reading this Familiar w/ BPD know if it is common for an obsession with violence.

[@HAMZAPINE]

Is he on instagram?

[@ToniMonteroroman]

Yes he is dr.porassss.

[@wonderwhen6084]

I guarantee a huge reason they kept you as a patient is because the government was paying the bill and that relieves the employees of having to answer to anyone, particularly since no one in your family wanted to support you.

[@kristenb5177]

Kinda sounds just like cash for kids back 15 years ago

[@LuciaBeans]

This. They only kept you for the money. They were paid to imprison and torture you. These "hospitals" are spawned by Satan.

[@tjones3393]

I'm from Pennsylvania and I'm so grateful I was used as free labor for my family instead of getting sent away to a random camp to be used. It's rough up there so glad I made it out !!!

[@elainew2230]

Guaranteed one of his parents had good insurance that was paying for this. He mentions it around 11:00 . US government would NEVER pay for someone who isn't a criminal.

[@marisacampanaro6471]

​@@elainew2230I was about to say the same thing, Medicaid would NEVER cover more than two weeks max three

[@saiqhai9968]

What a sadistic place. My heart goes out to him and all those who suffered at the hands of such vile people.

[@justathought274]

Poor man. Being shunted around like that as a teenager. Inflicting a lifetime of pain.

[@hinaz85]

So happy he got married and settled.

[@kaykrause4469]

I think it’s awful that people are treated so terribly in a hospital. I feel terrible.

[@BruceDanton-xw6eg]

It sure is too indeed.

[@Mary-tj5qx]

I can totally relate to this. I had a nervous breakdown when i was 18 and it was entirely a result of my emotional needs never being considered by anyone. I normalized everything i experienced until then, until it was more than I could deal with and my mind kind of broke. Really crazy looking back.

[@MSSHARIII]

💖🙏🏾💖

[@dawnroggs1943]

I was 15 when I was put on adult ward for anorexia

[@joyful_tanya]

I was 17. I was in a psych hospital for 3 years in the 80s.

[@haybrym]

Bless I feel all your pain . I Relate to

[@KayLeeHoward-vc2ph]

Being crazy or mentally ill and people calling u crazy when they are as well and begging for help not being diagnosed doesn’t help anybody lol

[@krishnamayimarianni8026]

I respect you Banning. After all you have suffered you have become a lovely human being without self pity.

[@hensonlaura]

Admirable accomplishment. Self pity is practically taught in school, these days 😉

[@hollyholyan4254]

There should be a law against such treatment, such institutions should randomly be investigated. What kind of monsters run such places. Sue them! God bless you sir.

[@clairefouche7306]

The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR)

[@RachelMyers-kc1ze]

There are very strict laws esp in the US. You simply cannot do the things the way this guy is saying in the 21st century.

[@ITIsFunnyDamnIT]

Problem is there are still many psyche hospital; doing all the things he talked about and worse and it is still very common for the psyche hospital NOT to release you until insurance runs out or wont pay anymore. What these Dr.s do and all the staff at these psyche hospitals do is pure EVIL. It's still going on to this day. No one is really investigating psyche hospital. People tend to just believe Dr.s at their word without ever questioning them.

[@andreaaragon9829]

There are both. The DOH of each state inspects the hospitals

[@joyaustin6581]

If someone is trying to claw their eye out what do you do? There are no group home that will take these type of person. He’s not sharing the stories of residents who break none of caregivers. It’s very one sided

[@yeesh9215]

He is very articulate and bright! Best to your future.

[@Stoic_Horo]

I like that, "people that are wounded tend to find each other", & ," our wounds, when we share them, unite us". Great sentiment.

[@MayaLove1976]

Omg I’m in shock that this hospital exists in our lifetime. That is torture treatment and parents go to jail for treating their children like this. And jail is better than this! Absolutely horrific!

[@ITIsFunnyDamnIT]

Sad fact is there are hospital like the one he described still doing stuff like that to patients and worse. All over the U.S. and NO one is really doing anything about it, because everyone still take Dr.s at their word without question. We taught to never question the Dr. he knows whats best for you, but in the psyche field they sure know how to abuse their authority.

[@outoforbit00]

That hospital was willfully obstructing any healing to take place. In fact they behaved like gangsters. Wishing this articulate, kind and very handsome man all the success with his book and endeavours.

[@phyllismay4384]

I'm a Gen Xer and before your hospital stay you sounded normal, like some of the boys I went to Junior High and High School with. When you're 15 boy or girl, no one listened to you. So sorry you and everyone at the hospital was treated horribly. It's as of the doctors and staff were the crazy ones and wanted to experiment with y'alls' minds and make y'all crazy.

[@parellano100]

🎯

[@secondmouse2650]

Yep

[@kaitlincox9714]

We have different circumstances but I can relate so much. My mom was physically, mentally and emotionally abusive. At 7 I became a caretaker for my younger siblings. My sister is mentally delayed and still has the mind of a toddler. I remember crying wondering why I even existed. I too had to dissociate to survive. It has left me feeling like I have no identity. I then became addicted to drugs. That's where I met Jesus. I had tried to kill myself. I screamed,"help me." And He did. He showed me the love He had for me and it had changed everything. I hope you know that you too are loved by the Most High God, Jesus.

[@MSSHARIII]

This man has such a beautiful youthful disposition. "People would talk through me"😢 This is why I am SO big on listening and communication. That is the least you can offer anyone, much less children.😔

[@siphamandlamkhize9766]

Thank you for this comment I needed to hear this

[@MSSHARIII]

@@siphamandlamkhize9766 You're so welcome! All the best! 💖

[@mashajohns7810]

agreed. It's so sad. I see such a strong person despite horrific circumstances.

[@MSSHARIII]

@@mashajohns7810 Absolutely! They couldn't break him💖. I wrote a poem on this same topic.

[@joanrobinson9193]

I’m 67 and sometimes my sisters don’t listen to me. My younger sister in particular will just start a new conversation while I’m mid-sentence. I feel invisible.

[@RunninQHsRock]

Ya, get people like that out of your life ASAP

[@priskruger314]

My mom has a mean little sister as well. I never understood why she did not KICK her out of her life. Even as a kid after hearing enough of the things she pulled like tossing away moms original diplomas - I wanted nothing to do w her. Not great her not shake her hand. Put you first. She does it as well. Stop being too kind. Be kind and loving to yourself xoxo

[@ann-mariepaliukenas19]

Same or verbally abused

[@ChlorineSpeedo]

It's absolutely the worst to be left asking yourself "am I here?" "Was I speaking?" Sending you love and support!

[@berachtdorian6191]

I am a couple of years younger than he is, and I, for very similar reasons, did a decent amount of time as a teenager in much lower security psychiatric facilities. The look on his face and the way he talks are identical to every functioning kid that I knew in the adolescent wards, and I'm sure that I still look and talk like that, too, because it's the look and the sound of abandonment, and once you've been abandoned you're never really the same afterwards. The abandoning of our youth to these houses of torture is a truly dire evil, and one that we, as a society, have very much avoided addressing. This video is an excellent start to the process of getting justice for the many victims of these monsters. Thank you.

[@Dave-if5qj]

Spent my youth in and out of Mental hospitals, damaged me permanently

[@octaviawilson9155]

❤💔

[@zenokarlsbach4292]

Try again.

[@Dot-he2ke]

Here's a pill. All I heard for years from neurotypicals. But now you can ask to change your gender.

[@secretshaman189]

It is so sad that a hospital, a place for healing, does the opposite and makes their patients worse. Yes, nature can be so healing.

[@thrivewithjesus5216]

The sin committed against children is so evil. Lord heal these wounds, in your name we pray 🙏

[@cheesecakefan4880]

Why would you expect your lord to help them when he doesnt stop the harm to begin with. He forsaked his only son but ppl expect his mercy. Zero logic really

[@Hay_Bay]

@@cheesecakefan4880foolish to think our mere human brains know the vast mysteries of the universe.

[@Hay_Bay]

@@cheesecakefan4880and that our deluded languages could even begin to express them.

[@miriam4235]

@Hay_Bay isn't that convenient. Is that what you where told not to question anything?

[@chriswilloughby48]

@@Hay_Bay so basically god acts exactly like he's being imagined by humans.

[@user-hs8me2ps7n]

It is very brave for this man to relive this and share his experiences. I hope he’s ok.

[@lorettajoy7275]

What a horrific place-- As a teen going through challenges, this is the LAST thing he needed. These teens were treated worse than many prisoners. What about human rights? What about the rights of children? This was about making MONEY on human lives, not about healing anyone. He only got out when no more money was going to come into the institution for his "treatment". I'm glad this survivor has managed to OVERCOME the abuse he endured in the mental hospital. Here's to all of us who are also survivors. 🌿

[@hlg-po6di]

This is how mental health institutions are run around the world, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries. No proper medical protocol or checks and balances. It's all about money. They run an unscientific circus to keep the funds flowing. Doctors are in on it.

[@abduco1847]

'they just had conversations around me and about me..' i understand that feeling too well

[@kat8838]

My Mother locked me out from kindergarten on. I was made to sit in the sun and drink from a neighbors hose. All my other siblings were allowed in and they used to name call me and say how much they hated me. I barely got fed and my siblings got as much as they wanted. I’m still very uncomfortable around women because of it and my sister always getting me punished. She took me to have an abortion and told me she wished she aborted me too.

[@malloryjines5050]

That breaks my heart! Please know that Jesus knows what you’ve been through and loves you very much! Sometimes families are toxic but God loves us unconditionally.

[@user-mc6wt5ti9m]

I'm so sorry. They didn't deserve you. ❤

[@barbaradw9969]

This is just terrible. I was not permitted to do many of the things as my siblings did, but I don’t remember being not allowed to have food. I have been twice to two different Hospitals for Mental Health Issues, but both those times, I admitted my self, after trying to commit Suicide. I have learned so much, that my Mother was a narcissist towards me & then I married a narcissist husband. We were married for 37 years, until he passed away from Cancer. I am still in Counseling, but doing much better. My life is finally free to be me.

[@Rainbowdancefactory]

@@malloryjines5050what does that mean?? That does NOT sound right!!! No child’s fault for growing up in a toxic family!!!

[@grandma460]

@@barbaradw9969happy to hear you are in a happier and safer place 🧡

[@belindahutchinson5333]

Thank you Banning for sharing your horrific experience with us. It's beyond cruel how these institutions and individuals treat patients.. it's like they are torturing and punishing you for getting sick. You obviously are a strong, emotionally mature individual whom has made this world a better place.

[@Godisfirst21]

I was 16 when my evil mother and evil grandmother took me to a mental institution and left me there. I'm 51 and will never forget it.

[@user-sn4dt8wh2t]

Im so Sorry that happened to you!! As adults they failed you greatly!!! They will need answer to God one day!! I hope you can move on and know all this was not right and was wrong!! I hope you’re living a good life now!! ❤

[@joyaustin6581]

Where was your father? Absent fathers tend to be less hated than present mothers. I assume he left first so he got a free pass

[@ensabahnur3104]

How does any of that help with mental health, thats torture

[@kellyweeks5491]

My parents divorced my dad had brain surgery at the age of 5. My mom had lots of mental breakdowns, she was poor we lived in low in come housing. My mom struggled mental health her whole life. Choose alcoholic men so I choose same type of men. I broke the cycle, I have mental health I take meds, doing good in life. PTSD will always be there but through treatment it’s possible to live a great fulfilling life. God bless you. We all have a story and a walk. I’m so glad I never got into drugs and alcohol like most. God blessed me.

[@roja7426]

That is horrendous what happened to you. I was in a psychiatric hospital in Houston for attempting to take my life due to domestic violence and a traumatic divorce. Thankfully, I wasn’t treated the way you were. However, that were short of staff and would ask patients to allow the smokers to go outside with the staff. I finally told the psychiatrist that I was only able to see the outside from a big window. He was annoyed at staff and from then on, we weren’t asked to let the smokers go with staff due shortage of staff. However, my kids are now 29 and 24 and never was able to get past the trauma of almost losing their mom and the violence they witnessed in the home. They have cut me off for 2 yrs now because I am a reminder of their horrible past. I am not upset at them and I understand why they cut me off. I just have to move forward in life without my kids and grandkids. If I don’t, it will kill me.

[@Buttie2003]

Oh my God l could never do that. My beautiful Daughter has bipolar and lives at home for 46 years. I love her with all my heart. People say she should live on her own but she cannot. I am her mother and she needs us. I had a massive heart attack now in heart failure. She helps me so it works both ways. If this beautiful young man was my son l would love him to the bitter end. Thinking of you and sending big hugs 🤗

[@johnnymentero6313]

Your daughter doesn't have bipolar or any other psychiatry "diagnosis" which in reality are stigmatization, no diagnosis. Because it's a made up - by psychiatry - "illness" ALL of the psychiatry labels are. There has NEVER been a single shred of scientific evidence DEMONSTRATING any of their claims. EVER. Look up the videos I posted on my comment above of psychiatrists who are spelling the beens for decades already.

[@leah_amy]

I have bipolar. I am 43 this year. Live with my elderly sick parents, sister and niece. We all help each other it’s great. 😊you’re a good mum… bipolar can be torturous .. stay safe

[@marleyhill34]

They say she needs to learn to live alone because how will she cope when you are gone or put in an end of life facility?

[@lindamuller2801]

❤❤❤I thank God for you❤❤❤

[@katehennessy4814]

Your daughter is a very lucky woman indeed!

[@justanothermortal1373]

As someone who is studying to become a mental health professional, this is very important for me.

[@CancerianQueen333]

What is very important for you..?

[@HVS-gk7oo]

@@CancerianQueen333 Backpacking

[@johnnymentero6313]

You're studying to make money out of people's disgrace while abusing them. It takes a very "special" kind of person to do that.

[@user-ob1oi7kn2w]

Why?

[@i.ehrenfest349]

@@johnnymentero6313oh don’t be silly. There’s bad therapists and there’’s good therapists, just as with everything in life.

[@pennylane7943]

This is absolutely horrifying. So sorry that people have experienced life in this way.

[@fanofthedog]

This exact thing happened to me in austin. Im 54 and was 15 at the time. When you said "sit chair" at the beginning this video I had a FLOOD of emotion/ flashbacks. I did 18 months in total. I was given a diagnosis "borderline" in order to keep insurance on me there.

[@brie1987]

That is a garbage diagnosis instread of calling it what it is sensitive child in abusive family causing developmental trauma. Its terrible. Some mistreatment and emotional neglect very early in life is not obvious but can lead to emotional dysregulation and fear. So its a trauma response they just skip Right over and blame the sufferer. Childhood Complex PTSD is an accurate descriptor

[@alicefreist318]

100% I've been trying to explain this to people, that we are not defined by the traumatic events we've survived, for years! Some people get it, some don't, some eventually do. It is liberating to take control and to stop living as a victim. It was not your fault, these horrible things, and you can get beyond and be OK.

[@Apricot90]

Your brain and cells know more than you. They often control "you". We often don't have control over our emotions and thoughts. I sometimes think I am over my past after 5 different therapists and a decade of therapy while also studying psychology myself. You are taking care of your body and health, have a beautiful big home, a good job, live in peace. And then you get sudden nightmares. Or a chronic illness. Something pops up, a suppressed and hidden result of unexplainable trauma.

[@user-xq1gd8xl8n]

A relative of mine used to work in a mental hospital. She said most of the staff were on drugs or had their own mental problems

[@eilenekellogg-ki2br]

Insurance was paying the bill, when it quit paying they released you.

[@DOTMH201]

I totally can relate to him and you. My mother died in my arms of a heart attack when I was 18. I lost it because she was my only parent and we were so very close. I will keep all of you in my prayers. ❤

[@sunshine9122]

I'm so sorry. May your mother rest in peace.

[@DOTMH201]

@@sunshine9122 Thank you 💜

[@nancywelsh2854]

My son had great insurance...so they kept him locked up until it reached it's limit...nightmare !

[@Petro7]

he will pick your nursing home

[@user-rg7hk6hf7p]

I have had this experience on multiple occasions, unfortunately especially when I needed help the most. It taught me if I am ever having trauma to keep it to myself

[@susuilu]

Happens more often than people can imagine

[@mcraig1969]

Your story is amazing. A true survior. I can identify. I'd had a mental health crises a decade ago and got caught up in a hospital drama similar to yours. After a month of my family trying to get me out we were finally able to stage an escape. If one is ever trapped by a facility.. look for the areas where there are no cameras and watch to see which workers are slackers . Know the lay out and when you see your window of opportunity take it and run like hell. Stay off the roads and public places until your able to find a phone to call someone you trust. I simply jumped a fence in the smoking yard , ran about 100 feet where my brother was waiting . Got to our home county and met with our Sheriff (A family friend). They tried to get me back by court order but our attorney had it quashed .

[@lita8835]

Being abandoned by my mom young this resonates with me. Hearing the outline of how he went from house to house just put in perspective how my mother never wanted to be responsible for me so she casted me off to my grandmother and absusive father. As a child you just wonder why then as an adult you can see how heartless people can be even after the privilege of bringing new life.

[@arishem555]

Beautiful soul. Those people who met you in life are so lucky. Thank you for sharing with us. I can feel your every word.

[@LittleBird888]

I survived the old Anoka State hospital twice against my will. Sharing my story soon publicly. I can empathize with what you’ve been through in the institution. I was there in my early twenties twice and the things I went through and saw in that place still haunt me to this day and I’m 50 yrs old. The injustice of it all and being stuck in the psych system for 3 yrs of my young adult life still sits with me often. Although I didn’t experience the same punishment as you in the hospitals they were still brutal and inhumane

[@grandma460]

Gosh so very sorry

[@MN49328]

I don't live far from there, my friend got us in the tunnels and we explored all the buildings and stuff

[@LittleBird888]

@@MN49328 I’m hoping to go back and visit as a visitor see how it affects me emotionally decades later. I’m building up the courage to go soon and film my experience. It’s one thing to go now as a visitor and walk the grounds but knowing I used to be a patient there before it closed down might be cathartic for me and a healing experience. I was a patient there in 1995 and 1996. It closed down in 1999.

[@wakkowarner8810]

Places like that make it hard to get sick people the help that they need.

[@SameJoinTheClub]

Very similar experience for me here in South Australia. I was institutionalised many times in my teens and early 20’s. I’m in recovery now and give back as a disability and mental health support worker and first responder.

[@goldalevin869]

Our wounds and trauma don't need to define us. Yes!

[@Bettinasisrg]

So wild! I'm about his age (1968) and my dad died in 1977 when I was 9 and my mom was left to raise 7 kids and I was the youngest. I was completely ignored and I remember one of my sisters friends took pity on my and brushed my hair, I had a lot of huge dreadlocks she took 3 hours to brush out my hair. The difference is I loved being ignored and left alone. I did all that drawing on clothes being weird and at 13 I went to live with my auntie in El Cajon CA, then to Chicago for a little while then N. Idaho then back to CA. Thankfully I wasn't put in a mental Institute, probably because we couldn't afford it lol. I've learned we need to focus on what we have and not what we don't have. If it means anything you seem like a well balanced insightful dude now! Hope you have a great life!

[@nussknacker9827]

I hope you and your wife are able to rescue kids from foster care. You're the best person to be a father knowing how kids feel

[@22amboo]

My brother (step) was put into an institution by his mom and I dont think she planned to get him out so he stayed there until my stepdad took him out as soon as he found out. I never really talked to my brother about what happened there but I know he was traumatized. I'm glad he's doing better now.

[@myredpencil]

SO much of your backstory sounds like mine, it felt like you'd hacked into my existence! I'm working on a book now about my experiences as a child in a mental institution and a ward of the state, after my mom was unable to provide me the care I needed when they split up and my dad left for Alaska. I saw no fireworks at the 1976 bicentennial because I was in a facility, a classic Kirkbride stone mental hospital with underground tunnels, and mingling with actual lunatics. I was only ten years old...

[@kkcook3743]

I didn't know about hurricane Katrina until 2 months later. My mom had me locked up in a state hospital. I was in jail two months waiting on a bed. I was in the hospital for two weeks and they let me go. I've never been the same. My mother and her family destroyed my life. Mentally, I'm still in that looney cell. I dissociate and talk to myself.

[@zorroandrorocat4704]

​@@kkcook3743 I'm soo sorry that is messed up !!!!! I'm tired of people putting sooo much faith in doctors and hospitals like they can do no wrong !!!! It's good to background check all healthcare providers!! I do . Did they at least visit u or no ? And also they wonder why ur so messed up treat u like ur crazy and their the innocent victim not realizing the real cause !!!!!😢😢😿😿

[@dawnpence3248]

Omg 😲 that is horrible

[@Apricot90]

Have you ever heard of Camille Claudel? I grew up with very conservative and pseudo-religious people (don't even want to call them parents) who were highly abusive (I'm talking mentally, physically, sexually) but acted all compassionate and caring to the public... They also somehow hated my guts but loved my three younger brothers, patriarchy at its finest. When I learned how to read in young age I took every book I could in the library and wanted to know how to survive in this cruel world. I've read many books about jews in Nazi Germany (I am from Germany) and many other tragic stories where people had to endure immense betrayal and suffering... I just wanted to know how to cope. And when I read about Camille Claudel I knew I was fucked, the people around me already started to threaten me with sending me away to institutions. But as you said: They didn't talk to me about that. They talked with each other about that. About me. The more I grew and flourished the more aggressive they became... I was so beautiful and intelligent, people would compliment me and you really could see their eyes turning black from hate and jealousy. But in the presence of others they couldn't act on their anger... They would just say stuff like "Oh, she is not all that, you don't know how she behaves at home, she is real trouble. Something is wrong with heir brain, she is not normal, we think it is because she was born prematurely." etc... The audacity. I was always very "shy", introverted, passive and hid in my room that looked like Harry Potters little chamber, I laugh when I think about it... Because that was my happy place. People in the outside world didn't "hear" me, no one cared. I knew I had to keep quiet and be patient. But they still regularly abused me... Then, when I became 18 years old, I took all my documents and a bag and escaped. I've never looked back. I'm a 34 year old teacher today. They only contacted me once. On linkedin. To ask me for money. And they had also the audacity to ask why I am so "mad" and "angry". Of course they also wrote stuff like "We love you, we always loved you, and our door is always open to our little girl." to twist the situation. Again, the audacity! The only thing they miss is their tool they can project all their hate, insecurities and anger on. A punching bag, scapegoat, servent. I was nothing more. Yes, you get insane with people like this. It is criminal. And there is nothing you can do but play along and escape in the very next opportunity. I am so sorry that you even couldn't do that. I am so sorry. Wish I could give you a genuine hug and hope you are happy and your heart and head is calm today.

[@artsy897]

Shows you what type of spirit you had, they could not break you! That’s why you survived. I hope you have found a type of happiness!

[@RJelly-fi6hd]

I don't understand how parents can be so selfish. I am sorry that you had two of them. As far as the mental institution, I am sorry that those adults totally misuse their power. I also was in a mental institution when I was 16. Fortunately, they taught me how to express my emotions and cope with life. Actually, let me say that Dr White did that. He was the only doctor who listened softly, and was so respectful. The rest were a joke.

[@kkw-pal1178]

Those restraints are not allowed anymore like that!!! So sad.😢

[@kurlenejohn5463]

❤ God Bless you❤ Sorry you went through so much emotional trauma ! I am SO glad YOU OVER CAME your struggles !❤ ,.

[@kimalonzo3363]

Incredible story. You made it. Thank you for sharing this.

[@elissa1505]

Thanks for telling your experience. I’m so sorry you went through all of that you turned out to be such a gracious person considering all the trauma you went through. Shame on that hospital they clearly mistreated their “patients”

[@teresacobbchapman4932]

😢this is so sad and so horrible that this happens. It mkes me physically sick just hearing. Im so sorry.

[@raeraebadfingers]

I was raised by emotionally abusive, verbally abusive, rare occasions physically abusive and not great grandparents, my mom was a drunk who was never home, dad in another state, younger brother and older sister there too (same mom different dads) I was more emotional and expressive as a kid, I was treated very different than my siblings. My grandmother would call family and lie about me saying i did horrible things when in reality I wasn't a bad kid. (Its taken me til now, 38, to realize I was never a bad kid, just manipulated to think I was) Anyway.. here I am with BPD, C-PTSD, dysthymia,anxiety disorder.. been in counseling and on meds for years. I want to love myself. I don't know how to. I don't know how anyone else could love me. It doesn't make sense. I don't even understand how to like myself. Tolerate myseif. Every moment, it feels like my bones want to walk away from my skin, it is a physical feeling how uncomfortable I am with myself. I don't know exactly how else to describe it. Like, there is suddenly "enemy nearby" battle music starts and you're like "oh shit" and scan your surroundings, heart beating fast, ears ringing, holding your breath, to see nothing, no enemy. But that enemy music doesn't stop. You can't shake it no matter where you travel on the map. You realize.. you're the enemy. You are your own enemy for no good reason. But can't change it.

[@patriciacole8773]

Would you be willing to ask God to reparent you? God is good kind wise faithful. You can learn about Him by reading the Bible. Psalms. John. Maybe read through the New Testament. Churches are not always safe so it’s difficult to suggest it. The ministry I listen to is on KZbin. I also watch some gardening videos. Find out what normal can look like. I like the 16 personalities types quiz. Find out what makes you tick to understand yourself better. And whoever you’re around if they are safe to also take the quiz so you can start to understand in what ways we’re alike and in what ways we are drastically different. Also love languages. Our job can be to become knowledgeable about our brain function. We can choose what to believe. Not taking other people’s opinion as fact. Not giving anyone power over us. If it’s a parent I say as much as possible go along to get along. I know they may make it difficult or impossible. I decided to do what I call “ emotionally divorce “ anyone in my life that is hard to get along with. Don’t try so hard with the mean people. This is all a spiritual battle. It’s the evil ignorant people trying to ruin the lives of the innocent people who are trying to learn how to be happy. Trust. Is. Earned. Do not hand it out free. I said this to you because I wish someone could have said it to me. Always go to God in prayer. God always answers the prayer Lord save me. He will take away the desire to sin. Like addictions. Or cursing. Be persistent to better your life despite the craziness around us. Stop going the wrong place. Stop choosing the wrong thing or person. Start to say yes to the right things. Drink clean water. Eat more fruit instead of sugar. Read the Bible. And read The Great Controversy by Ellen White. I love the book Desire of Ages about Jesus. Blessings 🌿

[@priskruger314]

Read Murakami novels. They take you away. Calm you down. Show us what healthy is. They helped me tremendously. Sending warm hugs

[@priskruger314]

@@PostalDude97 been saying this to folks glad to see it's also around as a concept!

[@dawnpence3248]

I read recently of someone who was cured of cptsd, it CAN be done! She just mentioned counseling for years, but no particular methodology. I liked reparenting, except for the reliving part. More of a believer in just let it go, create a different ✨️ story!

[@Mugiwara2k]

No one should have to endure being treated like that, much less in a facility that’s supposed to “help” people. I’m sorry you went through this.

[@Bellaskyee]

“Our wounds and our traumas don’t need to define us”, Thank you for sharing your story, may we continue to heal.

[@danskdna8550]

You are a great human for sharing this shocking, terrible story. I hope you heal the best you are able. I also hope you now know, after all that, there are also many good, kind, loving people out there...Praying this portion of your life is so much happier and easier.

[@dinahsoar6982]

I'm so sorry...you didn't deserve this. That place sounds like a torture chamber.

[@eddyjawed4871]

One of my worst nightmares is if people restrain and declare I’m insane sending me to the nut house despite me trying to prove that I’m not. Eventually you will become insane anyway

[@LisaEllis-rt3xh]

Yep,that's how it goes

[@bunnyboo6295]

Yes i think that is their plan create the problem so they can make money off of it. If you noticed the teens were held prisoner base on how long the insurance covers for it. they needed to make any teen they could get their hands on crazy the majority most likely ended up their do to coming from messed up families that didn't really want them or families that are vulnerable easy to trick into its the best thing for their teen. they likely seek out teens from families of certain status that's on certain insurance that gives them best payouts

[@marisacampanaro6471]

They never keep you strapped down for that long. They give you medications to calm you and go from there. It's not always great but they definitely don't keep you tied down for a year straight either. I've been institutionalized also

[@bunnyboo6295]

@@marisacampanaro6471 Then you're lucky you didn't go to one that was profit focus that legit had best interest, but it known that many medical institutions are about profits. They equally through someone out that needs if insurance don't cover as well as holding people making them sick if they benefit in profiting from it.

[@kreskin0079]

​@@marisacampanaro6471what didn't break you can break another. It sounds like you're downplaying the effects of being restrained and told you're insane when you're not.

[@Dani68ABminus]

What torture he had to endure. I am so so sorry!

[@dreyaleigh]

Very redemptive and touching story. Happy that you are here to share it.

[@Petro7]

redemptive? he wasn't in the wrong to start! Also, way to mick him with a chair as your profile picture

[@kel2700]

I am amazed when your supposed to be getting help at the hospital they just torture you. Disgusting. Thanks for sharing.✌🏼❤️

[@ritafarris1618]

I find comfort when I’m in the woods. It’s the only time I can relax. It’s my salvation.

[@QUECHULAESPUEBLA94]

Handsome and smart man I am sending you lots of love and happiness ! 🙌❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@katzsmith1781]

Thank you for sharing your story to help others..You have a beautiful soul

[@user-cy4vw1qj9m]

So sorry this happened to you.

[@pants_schmants]

"People don't listen to each other" is such a true statement. It causes a lot of needless pain. This whole story could have been so different. Also I can't believe how badly these kids were being treated! It's torture! Why??

[@harrylutz7321]

My “mother “ tried to have me put in an institution when I was 16. I got to the doctor and told him what was going on at home. I had a manipulative mother and narcissist at that. If she didn’t have her way in all things she would make our lives a living hell. Make up things and create scenarios,lie and she would try and get people to go along with her schemes. After this Dr. heard my side of the story he immediately called her and said”shes ready to go home “! Hearing this she immediately flew into a rage. The Dr. calmly said, “There is nothing wrong with her maybe it’s you that needs help”! Parents came and got me and it was a very uncomfortable ride back to their house indeed. I graduated high school and went into the Air Force. At last I was on my own! I’m 76 now and it still hurts me to think family treated me like that. You went through much worse than me. I commend you for succeeding with your life. God bless you and your wife.

[@robertsnearly3823]

Until my world came tumbling down, was I able to grow. Grow out of those teen years that haunted me clear into my fifties. Thank goodness I finally grew up on my terms, now living at peace and with happiness.

[@exploringdimensions4all853]

Wow! I'm so glad to see how well he is doing and how well he can communicate after this.

[@peterkennedy9396]

Every psychiatrist and mental health professional should watch this.

[@andreahall6007]

I am sorry you had to experience all this i cannot imagine what you have been through thank you for sharing your story wishing you lots of love and healing and a full happy life ❤❤

[@user-iz6sp6pe1r]

Sending a lot of love and prayers for you ❤

[@joylaidlaw9787]

Please tell me that place is shut and staff have been prosecuted and or lost their jobs. You are a strong, resiliebt, humble man. You should be a motivational speaker too. I'm glad you have found love with your wife despite the lack of it growing up. God bless you and may darkness never cross your path again.

[@RachelMyers-kc1ze]

I think there is more to this guy's story than the version he presents here. I think he's very carismatic, and he is a good storyteller.

[@deborah5209]

Thank you for sharing yourself in such a humanistic way. I just purchased your book on Amazon since I couldn’t get it at Barnes and Noble. Can’t wait to read it. Bless you and may the rest of your life bring you much happiness!!!

[@nat.in.nature]

I am so incredibly sorry for the torture you endured. I am so glad that you found healing in nature and are able to do what you love and bring incredible experiences to others.

[@user-cq6oq5hx6p]

Omg how can places like this exist, so mad, at the staff, GPS. Shame on them all. Thank god this guy has a positive look on life, may his faith keep positive.

[@creative2716]

What an amazing story. You are extremely resilient. God bless you all the days of your life.

[@christineloucks4713]

You are a beautiful human being. You're also correct on us all coming from the same puzzle. Everyone and everything is connected. It's time we all unite consciously in love and understand that we are all worthy. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@PeaceOfMindIsATreasure]

Such a good point " Our traumas don't define us" cause the ultimate purpose of our existence is crafted for endless blessings, peace & love