Using tools.....

When Maxine was my age,  the skin on her elbows became very chapped.  It was dry and almost looked painful.  She didn't take care of her body generally.  So her elbows remained chapped and dry.  I'm reaching that age.  My elbows have dry spots.  So, I use tools.  Moisturizing soaps and lotions seem to work for me. I'm responsible for my elbows.  So I take care of them.  Seems kind of logical ...yes?  What does this have to do with mental illness?  My progress in caring for my mental illness has to do with using tools.  And I'm responsible for using them. (I know. My mind works in interesting ways.)

Interacting with people struggling with mental illness has taught me one important thing.  You have to want to feel better in order to do so.  Making efforts to use available tools is the way you show that  you want recovery.  There are a variety of tools available.  Ranging from medicine and natural remedies to psychological assistance.  Therapy can be helpful.  Support groups are invaluable.  I could go on and on....and many of my readers educate me about options.

Are you willing to use tools?  If you find it difficult to find services, are you willing to continue looking for options?  Doing nothing isn't an option.  Reaching out and being willing are the only way forward   I'm very aware that it is tough.  Especially when there are money issues and few services available.  Please consider me an option.  We can brainstorm about where to look.  Each little step is a victory...