It’s #WorldMentalHealthDay, and I am so proud to live in a time where people are starting to be more open about their mental health issues — because it’s important to reduce stigma and it helps others not feel alone, but also, in my case, it’s important for me to say the words.
It helps me for many reasons. When I talk about living with bipolar disorder and alcoholism, I am able to own those parts of my life — those parts of who I am — and that makes them less scary and more manageable.
Talking about it also reminds me that I have to remember that I face those issues. It’s easy for me, at moments, to convince myself that I am leading a pretty awesome life and have “moved past” them. Spoiler alert: I haven’t.
I live an amazing life, but if I don’t take care of my mental health, things can go downhill quickly. So, sometimes talking about these issues provides accountability (at least in my mind).
Finally, talking on here and otherwise publicly about my bipolar and my experience with addiction opens up a world of people who I didn’t know existed, people w/ similar experiences who sometimes end up becoming incredible friends and a part of my support system. That’s amazing!
Of course, this is all what works for me. Other things and other paths work better for others. ... It’s all trial and error, though, just like most things in life, so I am really glad to see folks talking today about what works for them.
For me, I need to be honest with myself about where I’m at emotionally and physically. I need to then take action to address that. And I need to remember that others, not just me, are affected when I don’t take care of myself.
Things that work for me:
- exercise
- relaxing
- sleep
- healthier eating
- spending time with people who understand my addiction
- allowing myself to have fun, even in serious times
- remembering how amazing my family and friends are
- exercise
- relaxing
- sleep
- healthier eating
- spending time with people who understand my addiction
- allowing myself to have fun, even in serious times
- remembering how amazing my family and friends are
In any event, we’re all people, we’re all facing challenges, and honesty — at least with myself — is always the first step in me moving forward to address my challenges. My heart is with all of you facing your own mental health concerns today. 💙
On that note, I’m going to head off here for the night to relax some before bed. ... Night, all, and let us try to be good to one another — and ourselves. 😴
