Bernard

firsthand Guide
Memphis, TN

Bernard began his journey with firsthand in November of 2022. For Bernard, providing support and understanding to individuals living with serious mental illness and substance use disorder is more than a career – it's a lifetime commitment that is deeply tied to his personal journey.

At just 13, Bernard's life was changed forever. Due to an accident that claimed the lives of several of his friends, he was sent to an institution with the promise of help. This help, however, fell tragically short, and it took decades for Bernard to understand that he was living with PTSD, depression, and bipolar disorder. In the meantime, he self-medicated with drugs and alcohol, creating a long and complex road to recovery.

Bernard faced countless obstacles navigating the healthcare system. Despite repeated attempts, he often found his issues misunderstood, leading to a lack of appropriate treatment. Bernard is dedicated to helping others sidestep similar hurdles.

Over the course of more than 40 long years, Bernard sought treatment over 30 times, has survived several suicide attempts and has languished in inpatient mental health facilities. He reached a turning point when he received Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Bernard credits this therapy for enabling him to live with his mental health issues and guiding him further down the road to recovery.

As his own condition improved, he began working as a mental health technician. Determined to keep spreading support and awareness, he attained his certification as a Peer Recovery Specialist in Georgia in 2016. Broadening his knowledge of mental health through NAMI, Bernard returned to Tennessee, earning another certification as a state-recognized Certified Recovery Peer Specialist.

Currently, Bernard is utilizing his wealth of personal experience to serve a wide range of individuals dealing with mental health and substance use issues at firsthand. Consistently encouraging those he serves to not give up, he continues to uphold the hope that sustained him through his long, winding recovery journey.

One couple he worked with was navigating a difficult time. Having the opportunity to bring them together during the wife's hospitalization for heart surgery was one of the most rewarding moments in Bernard's role so far.

Another important moment for Bernard at firsthand was his time spent with an individual who was dying of cancer. Bernard recognized the value of his presence as her calm in the storm, testament to his belief that his role as a firsthand Guide is not just about expertise, but also about providing companionship and understanding in times of distress and fear.

Bernard is currently working on a memoir titled "Through My Eyes," delving deep into his lived experiences and sharing his journey toward recovery. Bernard hopes that his memoir will offer more than just a recounting of his experiences; he aspires to provide solace, guidance, and insights to individuals who may be dealing with their own struggles, and help to improve understanding within communities and families about the complexities of these issues.