This is truly an interesting point of view: http://bit.ly/1hVu6uQ. This author talks about a possibility that those dealing with a mental illness can achieve a feeling of well being. This is something that I can truly relate to. And I have achieved that feeling at times in my life. Given the fact that mental illness leads to pain and insecurity, I have honestly been a little surprised when I feel good. Usually those have been the times that I have stopped taking medication. I am convinced at those times that I don't have the chronic illness of depression. Which sets me up for the crash when the depression reappears. So, I have had to learn something about the value of self care. What I've learned about dealing with the biochemical consequences of depression is that I have an obligation to treat it as if it is any other chronic illness. If I take my medicine for diabetes on a regular basis, and eat correctly, I am likely to have good blood sugars. But that isn't an invitation to stop taking care of myself. The diabetes hasn't gone away. If I don't take care of myself, the problematic symptoms of my diabetes will come roaring back.
Not everybody believes in the same kind of self care I do. I see my depression as a medical issue that requires medication for me to stabilize. Between medication, support, and occasional therapy, I do achieve periods of well being. Other people utilize other kinds of tools. I don't pretend to be a professional telling anybody what tools they should use. Some people swear by alternative medicine, such as acupuncture and other eastern medicines. Others utilize spirituality as a tool. Diet and exercise contribute to good mental health for many people. I have even learned that chiropractic can help some with mental illness.
The right path for handling mental illness may vary for different people, but the point is the same. Recovery is possible. The disease may not go away. But it may be manageable. And that is what will bring that sense of well being. I invite you to take the steps you need to for yourself or your loved one. The prize is well worth the work and discomfort of looking for the solution. Finally, what you need to remember is that using your tools appropriately and regularly will keep you healthy. That means that your commitment to good health will require action. And we can make that commitment to ourselves.
Not everybody believes in the same kind of self care I do. I see my depression as a medical issue that requires medication for me to stabilize. Between medication, support, and occasional therapy, I do achieve periods of well being. Other people utilize other kinds of tools. I don't pretend to be a professional telling anybody what tools they should use. Some people swear by alternative medicine, such as acupuncture and other eastern medicines. Others utilize spirituality as a tool. Diet and exercise contribute to good mental health for many people. I have even learned that chiropractic can help some with mental illness.
The right path for handling mental illness may vary for different people, but the point is the same. Recovery is possible. The disease may not go away. But it may be manageable. And that is what will bring that sense of well being. I invite you to take the steps you need to for yourself or your loved one. The prize is well worth the work and discomfort of looking for the solution. Finally, what you need to remember is that using your tools appropriately and regularly will keep you healthy. That means that your commitment to good health will require action. And we can make that commitment to ourselves.
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