It has been an incredibly long and painful journey for "Nicholas," 21, and his family, but today Nicholas is living proof that with the right treatment and support, it is possible to recover from a crippling mental illness, schizophrenia, and substance abuse.

Although Nicholas most recently has been seen at Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network as an outpatient since the spring of 2005, his struggles with what ultimately would be diagnosed as a severe form of schizophrenia began in high school. With trouble escalating at school and home during his sophomore year, it was clear something was terribly wrong with Nicholas, who had been a straight-A student. It was the beginning of a journey that would result in periodic months'-long hospitalizations for Nicholas in no less than six different facilities across the Denver metro area.

The disturbing memories that shadow that path bear witness to the severity of his illness.

"I believed I was Jesus at one point," he adds, shaking his head. There were times when Nicholas was hospitalized that he had to be placed in a locked room because he was so out of control. His bizarre behavior included trying to eat cereal with a toothbrush. And there were days that he was sure "Elizabeth" wasn't his real mother. Even so, she came to see him all the time, refusing to give up hope.

Nicholas was lucky to have the unwavering support of his mother and 15-year-old sister. Nicholas' closest friends are now his mother and sister, whom he credits for helping make his recovery possible.

Because he also faced issues with substance abuse, Nicholas was referred to ADMHN's Aquarius Center, which effectively treats adults challenged by chemical dependency and mental illness.  "Nicholas is doing extremely well," says his clinical case manager. "I've seen him really mature during the time we've worked together. He is determined to get his life back on track."

Nicholas' active partnership in his recovery combined with his personal strengths and resolute spirit has made this success possible. He is diligent about taking his medications and remains drug-free.

He is looking forward to resuming his studies and meeting new friends at Arapahoe Community College in the spring and eventually hopes to transfer to a four-year school to finish his degree, possibly in criminal justice.