Support systems are key to recovery. And sometimes when you are depressed, finding people who "get it" seems like an insurmountable task. That means that finding options for support is complicated. Especially since in most places, care for mental illness is difficult to find. Recently, I have become aware of one option. As a consequence of my blog, I have become a part of several online support groups. Although there are complications whenever you deal with mental illness in an online group, this appears to be a wonderful source of help. The groups that I'm a part of are positive and offer participants information, support, and nurturing 24 hours a day. In spite of the fact that participants come from many different places, we have a strong connection. We have more in common than our different residences would suggest.
Mental illness impacts people worldwide. And our symptoms are similar. I can 'speak' with someone in India or the UK and get the same support that I would from someone who lives in Tennessee. It is an amazing feeling. Even though I'm really pretty stable and my depression is under control, I find the support I get from talking with people who have been through it invaluable. I can see how important this support could be if I was going through a crisis. When going through my issues in Orlando, what I felt the most was isolation. I needed support in the middle of the night when my fear was at its worst. Not something most local friends are able to provide. As my friend from one group said: "Someone is always awake.".
Where can you find these groups? They are private usually and sometimes it requires work to become a part of them. I found mine on Google+. But I'm also aware of groups on Facebook. If you need assistance, contact me. Or Google support groups and see what comes up. I hope you will choose to take the step to find support. It might lead to the peace you deserve...
Mental illness impacts people worldwide. And our symptoms are similar. I can 'speak' with someone in India or the UK and get the same support that I would from someone who lives in Tennessee. It is an amazing feeling. Even though I'm really pretty stable and my depression is under control, I find the support I get from talking with people who have been through it invaluable. I can see how important this support could be if I was going through a crisis. When going through my issues in Orlando, what I felt the most was isolation. I needed support in the middle of the night when my fear was at its worst. Not something most local friends are able to provide. As my friend from one group said: "Someone is always awake.".
Where can you find these groups? They are private usually and sometimes it requires work to become a part of them. I found mine on Google+. But I'm also aware of groups on Facebook. If you need assistance, contact me. Or Google support groups and see what comes up. I hope you will choose to take the step to find support. It might lead to the peace you deserve...
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