From Adversity to Achievement
Simeon's Transformation
Simeon slept through most of his freshman year of high school. His battle with anxiety and depression reached a crisis point that made even the most basic tasks feel insurmountable. At times, he slept more than sixteen hours a day. When he was awake, he spent all of his time absorbed in video games—rarely leaving his bedroom and fighting with his mom when she tried to help.
Simeon’s anxiety worsened whenever he stepped foot in school. Social situations were particularly stressful, and he often lashed out at his teachers and counselors when he felt frustrated. A typical class environment didn’t work for Simeon, so he eventually refused to attend school altogether, passing only two classes his freshman year because he fell so far behind.
Despite his mom’s best efforts, the situation spiraled out of control. Simeon’s mom sought professional support and enrolled him at LSS Residential Services for Children and Youth.
“I remember my first meeting with him—he wouldn’t come out of the corner,” recalled Summit Oaks Center Associate Director Molly Lemke. “He was screaming and yelling at us from his room for most of that day, which was interesting because he ended up being a nice and polite kid.”
Molly and Director Kim Wagley meet many young people like Simeon through their work. They say it’s common for kids with anxiety or depression to pull away from their families, hole up in their rooms, and use video games, social media and other distractions to isolate themselves. However, when these same kids get acquainted, they find it surprisingly easy to connect.
“Being in a small group with the same people gave me a lot more confidence,” explained Simeon. “Everyone was really helpful toward each other.”
Slowly, Simeon grew accustomed to his new environment. “It was scary to adjust, but exciting. The days felt slower and we had a good routine. Routine is huge for me.”
While the transition took time, Simeon found comfort in the daily regimens—breakfast, class, gym and group. “Group was enlightening,” he said. “It taught me how to cope with stress and anxiety, and taught me life skills.”
Simeon remembers gym time being particularly beneficial. “I had barely thrown a ball in my life, but the other kids were helpful and even gave me tips on how to do it.”
Gym time was just one small step in a series of breakthroughs. “When he started working with our maintenance person, he just blasted into his own self,” said Kim.
According to Simeon, the leaders and staff never shut down a learning opportunity. That is precisely how he had the opportunity to learn new skills alongside the maintenance person, who welcomed Simeon’s help on repairs.
“At first I didn’t feel like I was helping,” Simeon remembered, “but doing it every week became rewarding. It made me feel accomplished.”
The experience was a turning point, providing Simeon with purpose and having a profound effect on his self-esteem. It was around this time that he also made remarkable improvements at school. Not only did he start passing his classes, he found the motivation to catch up on all the work he missed during his freshman year. “I had a lot more confidence.” Over the course of one summer, he earned back 12 credits.
“He’s made significant progress in regard to his social skills, his academic performance, and being able to express himself,” said Molly.
After spending the afternoon catching up on schoolwork, Simeon asked his social studies teacher if he wanted to play chess. They continued playing regularly. What began as a casual game became one of his most impactful experiences.
“We talked about life, and it gave me a nice break from school,” explained Simeon. “It was a source of calmness and relief for me.”
Simeon’s conversations with his teacher and other staff members led him to think further about his future. After graduating high school, he decided to attend college. Simeon applied for several scholarships, and his essay was reviewed by the Horatio Alger Scholarship Board. His story of resilience struck a chord with the reviewers, and they selected him as one of only 105 national scholarship recipients.
In addition, Simeon received a generous academic scholarship from the University of South Dakota.
“I have a constant desire to learn,” he said.
“Leaving residential care is a big accomplishment,” said Kim. “and they’re going to hopefully have more big accomplishments along the way. It’s a journey.”
LSS Residential Services for Children and Youth provides comprehensive therapeutic treatment and specialized education to youth ages 10 to 17. These programs focus on helping youth who have emotional, behavioral and educational challenges become successful in their home and community.
Programs are located in:
SPEARFISH
Canyon Hills Center
SIOUX FALLS
Summit Oaks Center
