Transcript

It started with feeling like I was being followed by people with ties to the government. I'd feel like there are these people and authority that could get me fired. Or if I keep buying the same item at the store, they'd have that item discontinued. And I couldn't pinpoint where these people were operating from, but if I walked by a certain place, especially if I walked by like a church or a synagogue or a mosque, I'd feel it. I'd feel the same tremendous amount of pressure, not like a physical pressure, but intense, hold me back, prevent me from being productive.

The next morning I'd sleep late until 12 or like one o'clock. And after a while, the streets of New York became like a minefield. One time I covered myself in plastic from head to knees because... it was like this dust around people that I can't see. And I felt that if I got close or inhaled it somehow, it'd make me black out.

I ended up in the hospital for a week. I was diagnosed with paranoia. I've had outpatient therapy, sometimes, or art therapy. I got a lot better after joining OnTrack and finding that I could help other people.

My father lives four blocks away and he's a strong person, so just being close to him helps. And I pray a lot. Originally I thought that time would help heal things, but it's really more what you do in life and who you're involved with. I still have some paranoia, but I can live with it. Some people might see certain things that I do as out of the normal, but I'm comfortable at this point. I'm more empowered now. I can keep a job. I've learned to manage and deal with situations. And I've mastered not walking here and not walking there. I've come a long way.

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