Taylor is a young man whose mother was deported. He also learned the man who he thought was his father, was not his father. He entered KVC’s Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) at KVC Hospitals Kansas City suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts.

While at the PRTF, KVC found Taylor a kinship placement, where he stayed until graduation. KVC also helped Taylor with his independent living skills.

Taylor completed his PRTF program with flying colors! He met his treatment goals, learned emotional regulation skills, and adopted a support system. After he was discharged, Taylor sent his therapist text messages throughout his senior year. He shared his happiness, his accomplishments, and his struggles. But most importantly, he reached out when his depression resurfaced.

On February 13, 2013, Taylor celebrated his 18th birthday. He sent a text message to this therapist that read, “Today is my birthday, I’m finally an adult! I wanted to say THANK YOU for all that you did for me while I was at my darkest moment. Without you as my therapist, and my biggest supporter, I wouldn’t have been able to celebrate this day.” Taylor used his PRTF support team throughout his senior year. They offered him words of encouragement and provided a listening ear. In May 2013, Taylor graduated from high school.

Today, Taylor attends Johnson County Community College majoring in psychology. Taylor’s advice to others is:

“Never give up; pain is only temporary. KVC PRTF helped me look at life in a better perspective. I didn’t want to go initially, but I know it bettered my life.” He added, “In that moment, things may be really hard, but you can come out of it and be successful, instead of letting it defeat you.”

Taylor’s story is one of success. His story shows perseverance. It also shows different teams working together from the PRTF, to permanency, to independent living. Taylor wants his message to help other youth in his similar situation.

If you know a child or young adult struggling with depression or experiencing thoughts of self harm, contact our psychiatric hospitals at (913) 890-7468.