Street Roots
Dustin Dandliker moved to Portland at age 10 to escape an abusive home. By age 14, he developed major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder that went undiagnosed for years. He sought escape through drugs and alcohol, eventually ending up in and out of jail and homelessness. He also managed to get his GED, graduate college and work in mental health for eight years.
This column is a first-hand account of the struggles and successes of overcoming trauma, mental illness, addiction, homelessness and more.