"The First Rule of STAT is Don't Talk About STAT"
Disclaimer: I have no knowledge as to whether the STAT Program continues to exist in the form I experienced. The purpose of sharing these experiences is to offer insight, awareness, and/or validation to those who may benefit from hearing my story. Some years ago, I attended the “STAT Program” hosted by the psychiatric facility in HSC. The reputation of the program was an intense, rigorous mental health course, requiring exceptional dedication to one’s wellness and personal growth. My doctor warned me of this when I asked to be referred, but my dedication was strong and I was not deterred. When I went in for my assessment, before being accepted into the program, I was informed of the strict attendance rules; 8am – 4pm, Monday to Friday, for five consecutive weeks. To be counted as in attendance, one had to be inside the classroom before the door was closed at the beginning of each class, and three “absences” resulted in expulsion from the program. These high expectations were the fi...