The Collage Podcast - Episode 49: Claire
Released on October 16, 2024 by Feed My Sheep
Introduction
In Episode 49 of The Collage Podcast, hosted by Feed My Sheep from Temple, TX, listeners are introduced to Claire, a student from Texas A&M Central Texas. This episode delves deep into Claire's personal journey, encompassing her academic pursuits, struggles with mental health, experiences with trauma, and her aspirations to make a meaningful impact in the field of school psychology.
Claire's Background and Academic Journey
Claire begins by sharing her origins and the serendipitous circumstances that led her to Texas A&M Central Texas. Originally from Minnesota, she discovered the relatively unknown branch during a spring break tour in 2020. Captivated by the campus's picturesque views—from the third floor where "you can see for miles, including all the hills" (02:22), she decided to pursue her education there.
"I toured it, fell in love. I was like, I'm pretty determined to go there." (02:57)
Her decision to enroll was further influenced by familial ties, as her aunt resides in Temple, making her move feel destined.
Struggles with Alcohol and Overcoming Adversity
Claire candidly discusses her battle with alcoholism, which began at the tender age of 15. She recounts how familial patterns of alcoholism and online grooming at age 12 significantly impacted her trajectory.
"I was getting groomed online at 12... I became an alcoholic at 15." (08:58)
A pivotal moment occurred during her sophomore year when, under the influence of alcohol and antidepressants prescribed for depression, Claire was sexually assaulted by a 23-year-old. This traumatic event not only deepened her depression but also catalyzed her journey toward sobriety. After enduring a year of substance abuse, Claire made the courageous decision to quit drinking cold turkey in October 2017, marking nearly seven years of sobriety.
"I knew that I was either going to end up in one of two places, jail or dead... I just kind of gave it up cold turkey." (21:54)
Mental Health and Autism Diagnosis
Claire's experiences with mental health challenges and her subsequent self-diagnosis of autism play a central role in her narrative. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing neurodivergence, especially in educational settings.
"School psychologists are the people that meet with the student, with the parents and the teachers and just kind of gather data and evidence of the student." (04:33)
Her late diagnosis shed light on her struggles with social cues and sensory sensitivities, prompting her to advocate for better recognition and support for autistic individuals, particularly women.
"I just want to be part of that change... help get rid of that stigma. Yeah, that it's okay to be different." (35:45)
Advice for Parents and Community
Claire offers insightful advice for parents aiming to protect their children from online predators and the pitfalls of the digital age. She underscores the necessity of monitoring children's online interactions and fostering open conversations about consent and internet safety.
"Closely monitor who I was talking to, what I was doing online... there's a lot of dark stuff on the Internet." (17:10)
Additionally, she highlights the importance of school-based assessments for conditions like autism, advocating for utilizing free educational resources to ensure children receive the support they need without the burden of financial constraints.
"If you suspect your child has autism, all you have to do is go up to your administrators and say, 'Hey, I'd like my child tested.'" (27:51)
Personal Growth and Hobbies
To maintain her mental well-being, Claire has adopted several positive habits. She eliminated her social media presence in January, finding freedom and peace in disconnecting from the digital world. Instead, she immerses herself in reading, having completed 18 books since then, and engages in creative activities like painting, drawing, and puzzles.
"Being out of that has been so freeing. I've read 18 books since January." (42:25)
These hobbies not only provide relaxation but also serve as therapeutic outlets for her creativity and introspection.
Closing Thoughts and Final Messages
Claire concludes the episode with powerful messages of self-acceptance and the universal value of every individual. She emphasizes her identity as a "child of God" and her mission to spread joy, love, and support to others.
"I would want everybody to know how loved they are by God, but also loved by people." (41:02)
Her closing remarks resonate with the podcast's overarching theme of shared humanity and the profound impact of personal stories in fostering understanding and compassion within the community.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- "Claire, it's okay to be different." (35:45)
- "Comparison is the thief of joy." (40:19)
- "You do not have to be a 'problem person'; you're a person with unique experiences." (34:36)
Conclusion
Episode 49 of The Collage Podcast offers a compelling and heartfelt exploration of Claire's life, highlighting her resilience in the face of adversity and her dedication to fostering positive change in the realm of mental health and education. Through her story, listeners gain valuable insights into the challenges of neurodivergence, the importance of supportive communities, and the transformative power of self-acceptance and advocacy.
For more information about Feed My Sheep and to get involved, visit feedmysheeptemple.org.