Carol of Naples, Fla., who credits Compeer with saving her life. Carol contemplated suicide many times before getting a Compeer friend. She writes, "Compeer has helped me to stay out of the hospital and it has also helped me to maintain my stability. There were many times I was so discouraged that I would love to permanently end the pain - forever. I no longer want to curl up and cry. Compeer has made such a difference in my life; it is literally my support system and lifeline."

Jeff from Philadelphia, who made the transition from a mental-health consumer to a Compeer volunteer. "I have been a consumer for more than 30 years, being diagnosed with schizophrenia a month before my high-school graduation. I know firsthand how it feels to be lonely and isolated, and I wanted to be able to help someone overcome these feelings. I believe having friends and doing things in the community builds confidence and motivation - and helps people cope with stress."

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