Hi! I am Deirdre! I am in my 29th year in public education. I have been a teacher and school counselor because I enjoy working with students. Growing up I experienced both anxiety and depression. In those days there was little talk about mental health, so it took years for me to learn strategies and feel better. I want to support students outside the school building in ways that I didn’t have, and through Daybreak I can do that! I sincerely look forward to getting to know more about you! It is normal to feel depression, anger, hopelessness and sadness. These feelings can lead to anxious thoughts, stress and confusion. To cope, we sometimes act in ways that lead us to feel regret and shame. When we recognize anxious thoughts and feelings before impulsive actions, we can choose better choices. Choices that make us proud. Small consistent choices over time build healthy habits and self-dignity.