Mental Health Matters

An Insight To Christmas With Depression

2011-12-01T09:04:00.000-08:00

December is here and that means stress and depression! Stress of finances, shopping and dealing with crowds, missing family, dealing with traffic, cleaning, putting up Christmas decorations and cooking. Christmas just isn't a good time of year for me. It's very stressful and often times I deal with depression throughout the season. Just dealing with the finances of Christmas alone is depressing. This time of the year is a day to day battle for me.

On top of it all my husband hates Christmas, so that ruins it for me. And he works straight through it. My son is now grown and I miss my family. My family lives an hour and a half away and my vehicle has some problems, so I can't travel to see them. My parents are both deceased. My mother passed away right around Christmas 2001, it was on December 13th. My father passed February 2, 1982. I miss them both dearly.

I always feel exhausted as it is and the thought of cooking, cleaning, putting up decorations and shopping is overwhelming to me. Not that I hate Christmas, I don't. Matter of fact, it use to be one of the happiest times of my life. I lived for Christmas. Losing my father was hard, but I think once I lost my mother that was the final blow. Then once my son was grown and I married someone who hates and wishes the holiday didn't exist that was just the icing on the cake.

I just don't feel joy anymore. All I feel is stress and depression. I look around and see how happy everyone else is and I feel jealous that I don't have that. It's hard not to be envious. Every one telling you Merry Christmas and you feel pressured to be joyful and happy when your just not. All I strive for at Christmas is to just get through it. I take it one day at a time. There's only one reason I still try to make it through Christmas and that is my son, even though he is grown, I know he still loves it, though he wouldn't say so. He probably gets that from me over the past several years.

This is just an insight into someone who deals with depression throughout the holidays. But while I am just going to try to get through Christmas, I do hope that everyone has a very Merry Christmas out there. Because even though it's hard on me, I don't wish my predicament on anyone.

World Mental Health Day: My Personal Experience

2011-10-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

I am blogging today about World Mental Health Day. I have what's called Bipolar II. Bipolar II disorder (pronounced "bipolar two") is a form of mental illness. Bipolar II is similar to bipolar I disorder, with moods cycling between high and low over time. However, in bipolar II disorder, the "up" moods never reach full-on mania. The less-intense elevated moods in bipolar II disorder are called hypomanic episodes, or hypomania.

A person affected by bipolar II disorder has had at least one hypomanic episode in life. Most people with bipolar II disorder also suffer from episodes of depression. This is where the term "manic depression" comes from. In between episodes of hypomania and depression, many people with bipolar II disorder live normal lives.

I was only diagnosed with Bipolar II in 2007, but have been hospitalized, been to many doctors and counseling over the years and I have had issues with depression and hypomanic episodes since I can remember. Having Bipolar II has been very difficult for me at times, but over the last few years, with the right diagnosis and medications, I am more stable. I still have my ups and downs of course, but they're no where near as often or as bad as they use to be.

Unfortunately, I still fight the stigma of having Bipolar II. There are those who aren't interested in trying to understand the illness and don't even won't to be around you, but there are a few of those that do. My wish is that one day the stigma of mental illness will be less dominant rather than being the dominant.

If you take time to get to know those with mental illness you will find they are human beings just like you. We just may have higher ups and downs than the average person, but we are still human and deserve to be treated as such. So won't you please take the time to better understand mental illness and offer your support in what ever way you can? Now is a great time to start, after all, it's World Mental Health Day.

Personal Stigma Hurts

2011-10-08T09:09:00.000-07:00

I know first hand what it's like to deal with the stigma of having Bipolar. I have met many people in which we could have become friends, but the minute they found out I had bipolar, they backed away. It's as if I had some contagious disease. Either they were afraid of catching it or they're ashamed to know me or be seen with with me. I can't tell you how much that hurts me and how bad it really makes me feel. Then there are those who pretend to be your friend, but they're only there when they need something from you...when it benefits themselves. Otherwise you never see or hear from them. They are the fake friends who pretend the Bipolar is okay, that it doesn't bother them, only it does.

I am a regular person who deals with an illness in which I take medication to help control it. I'm not all that different from so called normal people, except sometimes my mood may be down more so than the average person and sometimes I may be up more. But I am a human being and deserve to be treated like one and as an equal.

A friend is someone who understands your past, believes in your future, and accepts you just the way you are. A true friend is someone who thinks that you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked. That last beautiful quote is a quote by Bernard Meltzer. So if you can not be those things to me just because I'm bipolar then your truly not a good friend to anyone. Your only lying to yourself and to them. You are an impostor.

A great place to start to fight stigma is NAMI StigmaBuster. NAMI StigmaBusters is a network of dedicated advocates across the country and around the world who seek to fight inaccurate and hurtful representations of mental illness. To join, click here NAMI StigmaBusters

A Positive Attitude Is Important

2011-09-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

A positive attitude is very important, especially if you are one who tends to be a negative person or depressed. Like myself for instance. Read More

Pets Can Be Good For Mild To Moderate Depression

2011-07-26T08:07:00.000-07:00

Be sure to read my recent post on my Life Matters Blog, "Pets Can Be Good For Mild To Moderate Depression."

Walk to Relieve Stress and Improve Health

2011-05-12T08:39:00.000-07:00

Walking can help relieve stress and improve your health. Walking and getting out of a stressful environment, breathing in fresh air, taking time to think and clear your head and moving your body are all ways walking helps to relieve stress and improve your health.

On top of that, you get to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, not to mention it's great exercise if you walk four or five days a week for 30 to 60 minutes. Walking is good for you for a variety of reasons.

Walking relieves stress.
Walking builds aerobic fitness.
Walking and exercise add years to your life.
Walking slows the aging process.
Walking reduces your risk of catching colds.

So get outside, walk four to five days a week for just 30 to 60 minutes and take a step towards a mentally and physically healthier you.

5 Links to Help Fight the Christmas Blues

2010-12-14T09:45:00.000-08:00

5 Links to Help Fight the Christmas Blues

Pushing through Bipolar Depression

2010-11-14T11:59:00.000-08:00

Did you know there are many famous people who have Bipolar just like you? Here's a list... http://www.famousbipolarpeople.com/ There are probably more people than you think or realize that have Bipolar, they just don't share it. Most people still feel shamed by their illness and refuse to discuss it out of fear and shame. But there is nothing to be ashamed of, Bipolar is an illness just like any other. Even famous people with wonderful careers and talents have depression. You are not alone.

Bipolar is no laughing matter, especially when you fall into Bipolar Depression. You should always strive to push through your depression. Of course, first you have to recognize it, and usually your able to do just that. How? Sometimes you start to feel sluggish both mentally, emotionally and physically, then there's the irritability and the crying spells or at least you feel like crying. You may even feel so bad as to have suicidal thoughts. When that point comes where you feel yourself starting to slide down, when happiness completely alludes you, then you have to start to push through it. What are some ways to push through it? Here is a list of ideas:

Watch funny movies
Listen to upbeat music and dance
Pamper yourself - take a nice warm relaxing bath, then put on your pajamas, give yourself a manicure, just relax and go easy on yourself
Be sure to take your medicine and if you have anxiety medicine, this is the time to take it
Talk to your counselor or psychiatrist if needed
Let your friends know your struggling, so they can help lift you out of it
Exercise if you can, even if just 10 minutes
Read, meditate, study the bible. Ask God to help you through it
Keep a diary or journal
Keep yourself busy with chores, chatting online with friends, working puzzles, just keep your mind busy as much as possible

I hope the above suggestions will help you, as they help me. Try to do at least half the suggested activities on the list when you start to feel the depression coming on. This way you can combat it and push through it. Bipolar Depression may feel like it's going to last forever, but always remember, Bipolar Depression is a temporary state, you can come out of it IF you take your medicines correctly, see your psychiatrist/counselor and do some of the activities listed above. Just give it all your effort and push through Bipolar Depression.

Bipolar II - "A Day In My Life"

2010-08-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

A video excerpt taken from my Bipolar Diaries to give you a personal look inside a day in my life living with Bipolar II Disorder.

Social support: Tap this tool to combat stress

2010-08-25T08:47:00.000-07:00

Friends, family and a good social support circle are a key component of your mental wellbeing? Check out ways social support systems benefit everyone: Be sure to read this great article by the MayoClinic.com

What is Bipolar I and II Disorder?

2010-07-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

Bipolar I disorder is a mood disorder that is characterized by at least one manic or mixed episode. There may be episodes of hypomania or major depression as well. It is a sub-diagnosis of bipolar disorder, and conforms to the classic concept of manic-depressive illness

Bipolar II disorder is a bipolar spectrum disorder characterized by at least one hypomanic episode and at least one major depressive episode; with this disorder, depressive episodes are more frequent and more intense than manic episodes. It is believed to be under-diagnosed because hypomanic behavior often presents as incredibly high-functioning behavior. Indeed, to a physician or psychologist specializing in mood disorders, highly confident ambition might appear to be symptomatic of hypomania if that individuals goals are viewed as unrealistic.

To read more about Bipolar Disorder definitions, symptoms, treatments and more, please visit NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Health

Negative People's Effects on those with Depression or Bipolar

2010-06-22T09:17:00.000-07:00

Today, I want to share with you a little insight about overly negative people and their nasty effects on you. My most personal inner thoughts and feelings and how it's affecting me personally. Take someone like myself with Bipolar, I mean you wouldn't have alcohol around for alcoholics or drugs for drug attics would you? You wouldn't expect or want that for someone dealing with those issues. So why would you expect someone like me to deal with negativity which is what drugs and alcohol are to drug attics and alcoholics? But this is exactly what is going on with me. Read more...

Mental Illnesses

2010-06-15T16:56:00.000-07:00

Easy-to-understand information about mental illnesses, mental health care, diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Read more at NAMI...

Bipolar Disorder
Depression
PTSD
Borderline Personality Disorder
Eating Disorders
OCD
Schizophrenia

Postive Mindset

2010-06-04T09:41:00.000-07:00

When one deals with mental illness of any type, it is especially important to keep a positive mindset. For those of us dealing with depression or Bipolar, a negative outlook is usually the norm, the dominant mindset. So it is up to you to pull yourself out of that mindset and into a more positive one, as much and as often as you can. Whenever you find yourself drifting into those negative thought patterns, catch yourself, tell yourself that's what your doing, and that you are NOT going to let that happen. Then proceed by thinking of positive thoughts, positive things...happy thoughts.

One way to help get and keep a positive mindset is to watch a cheerful happy or inspirational program on television or perhaps listen to some upbeat peppy positive music and dance around. Get outdoors and go for a short walk, get some sunlight, vitamin D is good for you and it is suggested that every get at least 15 minutes of direct non-stop sunlight every day. And let's not forget exercise, yes exercise. Walking as I mentioned above is a great way to get exercise. Walk for at least 20 minutes five times a week, preferably 30 minutes. If you can't do that, then try squeezing in two 10 minute walks a day. Another great way to have a positive mindset, relax and read an inspirational book. The number one book to read, pick up your bible, read and meditate on some scriptures dealing with depression and negativity.

These are just a few ways to get your started and to help you keep your mindset positive in your fight of the negativity that comes with mental illness. Just always remember to take each and every day, one day at a time, one moment at a time. Be happy in that moment.

Medication Talk

2010-05-31T11:08:00.000-07:00

Today, I just wanted to touch on the subject of medications and how important it is to take your medications. If you don't have insurance and can't afford a regular doctor, then you can go to the free clinic to get your medications. They often can refer you to a mental health counselor as well. Be sure to ask your doctor at the free clinic for free samples of your medications, and ask for generics as well. Also ask about getting enrolled in the local medication assistance program. If by chance they don't have one (but they should) you can go to my website and click on any of the prescription links and sign up with any one of those. As far as anxiety medications such as adivan or xanax the free clinic can not prescribe these. For those medications, you will have to get those prescriptions from your Psychiatrist. Be sure to work with your doctor by speaking up and speaking out about what medications you have taken in the past and what has worked for you and what has not.

I currently have a fairly good combination of medications, a mixture of mood stabilizers, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications that I have found to work good for me. I currently take Risperdal, Celexa, Trazadone & Adivan (as needed). It has taken me years to find a good combination that works, so don't give up...keep tweaking your medications as needed, but don't give up, eventually you will find a combination that works for you too. Just know that it is extremely important to take your medications because no matter how bad things may seem to be; if you don't take your medications, things can be much, much worse.

A Look Inside: A Little Insight - Exerpt from my "Diary of a Bipolar Woman"

2010-05-25T09:12:00.000-07:00

My doctors often told me to write down my feelings, that I should keep a journal. I love to write, so that's exactly what I started doing. Writing my mind, my conscience thoughts down in my online diary, "Diary of A Bipolar Woman". This way I get to do what I love, write. And I get to keep a record in writing all my most inner thoughts and feelings down in my diary to have on hand for therapy or even a book someday, should I choose to go that route.

My diary is online for those looking for insight, understanding or fellowship in what you may also be going through or know someone who is. I don't highly publicize it as they are my my private inner thoughts and feelings, but I do have it out there to help those that really need help or just could use the kinship. At any rate, I thought I would from time to time publish an occasional excerpt from my diary here on my Mental Health Matters page for those that are genuinely interested. I hope it helps you in some small way.

Thoughts from my conscience - "Tuesday, May 20, 2010. Sometimes my outer shell (body) doesn't seem to want to cooperate with my mind. This is what I find most frustrating about Bipolar. No matter what the mood, ups or downs, now that I'm on my medications regularly the occasional blasts of energy levels I had are slim to none now. That's the down side to being regulated on medication. Your moods are more stabilized, but your physical energy diminishes. Often times now, it's just my mind that seems to have the changes in activity and creativeness while my body always feels exhausted. Every now and then, I do still get those bursts of energy, but not near enough to suit me or what I need to function in the world normally...energy wise. It is such a gorgeous beautiful day outside today! I am hoping to take my puppy to the park later for a walk. One thing is for certain though. I will have to prepare my mind and more or less talk myself into going all day and hopefully in the end, my mind will win out over my tired exhausted body. As this is pretty much how it is with anything that takes physical activity or requires being in public or being social. Most people would never guess that about me, because they think I'm somewhat outgoing. Truth is, my personality is somewhere in between.... I'm neither an introvert, nor extrovert, but a perfect balance of both. The problem is my Bipolar and actually even bigger problem is when it comes to my social anxiety. Again, most people to see me and talk to me in public would never guess what I go through privately, and what I am constantly battling to be out in the world. It is an inner battle and constant internal fight and struggle within myself. It may sometimes look effortlessly to the outside world, but is tumultuous to me on the inside."

Again, please keep in my these are my most private inner thoughts and feelings, so your utmost respect, understanding and privacy is expected and greatly appreciated.

Societies definition of Mental Illness = CRAZY

2010-05-17T13:32:00.000-07:00

What is Societies definition of Mental Illness = CRAZY And I am here to tell you WRONG! Just like illness such as cancer or heart conditions there are different types of mental illnesses as well as varying degrees of severity and also within each type of illness. But to society, just the very mention of the word mental illness means you are crazy, period. No one cares about the details, no one dares to ask you, no one wants to know. They would just rather assume you are crazy, when in reality, nothing could be further from the truth.

Take Bipolar for instance, which is the condition I have and I assure you, I am NOT crazy. "Psychiatrists, realizing a connection greater than coincidence, have performed studies all over the world in an attempt to establish a link between bipolar disorder and creativity" "One common feature in mania or hypo mania is the increase in unusually creative thinking and productivity." Does that sound like a crazy person? Now this particular excerpt sounds like me, "The only way bipolar patients can survive their depressed phases, oftentimes, is to unleash their despondency through some creative work". This is exactly what I do and do it often if and when needed. It is such a great therapy.

My point is, once again, fighting the stigma. Trying to ease people's minds. Those of us with mental illness are NOT crazy, we just have extra special personalities with extra heightened and/or sensitive personalities, emotions and feelings which when we are regulated on medications are perfectly fine. We just have to give ourselves some fine tuning every now and then along with a swift kick in the butt. We also have to surround ourselves with the right type of people. But as far as you go, don't be scared, don't assume, don't think we're crazy or any less of a person than you are because we are not. That is just insulting to us. If you have questions, then PLEASE ask. It is the only way you'll ever know.

MHMatters - May Mental Health Month

2010-05-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

May is Mental Health Month, so what are you doing to support or help? One major thing you can do to help is to help rid the Stigma that is still attached to Mental Illness. Mental illness is a real and genuine medical condition that affects a person's thinking pattern, their feelings, mood, ability to relate to others and function in their daily activities and routines. People with mental illness have just that...an illness, they are not lazy, they're not just negative thinkers by choice, it's their illness. I get so aggravated and annoyed with the overly "positive" people. Being positive and telling people to be positive is all well and good, but there are some of us who don't choose to think negative or we simply can't be positive thinkers all the time. We would certainly love to if we had a choice in the matter, but just like cancer or hepatitis, we don't have the choice of when we are going to be feeling 100% or even 50%.

Mental Illness is real, it is a disease an illness. So please, if there is just one thing you do to help support Mental Health Month, please help Stomp out the Stigma! For more info go to NAMI Stigma Busters Another great article for May is Mental Health Month can also be found here. Please won't you show your support?

Have you seen the YouTube PSA's for Stomp the Stigma?

2010-04-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the wonder new wonderful YouTube PSA's for Stomp the Stigma? The new PSA was produced by actor Joe Pantoliano's No Kidding Me Too (NKM2) "Stomping the Stigma" campaign and includes several other actors. It coincides with release of an NKM2 documentary for DVD sales. Whether you have mental illness, know someone with mental illness or not, if you haven't done so already, take a look!

For more information or YouTube PSA's visit NAMI's Stigma Buster.

Have Mental Illness, But Treated As Though You Have The Plague?

2010-04-08T20:46:00.000-07:00

Have Mental Illness, But Treated As Though You Have The Plague?

Ever make a new friend and tell them up front about your mental illness with the hope of gaining their trust and understanding, only to find them backing away from you scared? Unfortunately, this is an all to common practice by many who stereo type those of us with mental illness as being “crazy”. Although we know this couldn’t be further from the truth, the stigma is still out there stronger than ever. Believe me, I know. I have Bipolar II a somewhat lesser form of Bipolar I in that I deal more with the depression and have bouts with hypomania rather than full blown mania, but nevertheless I have Bipolar.

Yes, you often get treated as though you have the plague. People find out you have a mental illness and they immediately panic. Wrong thinking comes into play. That dirty word again. Crazy, that's what they stero type you as. They jump to their own conclusions as to your future friendship or business dealings as to what you might say or do that’s “crazy”. They worry about what others might think of their association with someone who has mental illness. And bottom line, they just think less of you. Like your not as smart, not a capable person or like you wouldn’t make as good a friend as someone else or that your weird or even dangerous.

Telling them up front about your illness is great, but be sure to also reassure them that you are just as worthy as anyone else and deserve the same treatment and respect. The truth of the matter is, speaking for myself and for many others I’m sure. When it comes to my friends and especially business matters, I put my best foot forward. I function at the very top of my game. And as many of you with Bipolar know, you can function very well at the top of your game because those with Bipolar can be very understanding, intuitive, smart, talented and creative. I often have to be smarter and stronger than most to function, just to make it through a day, to survive in the end.

I reserve my true moods, depression or whatever cycle I may be in to deal with in private. How do I do that? Because I am on the correct combination of medicines to manage my Bipolar and because I talk openly about my Bipolar. No, I will never be normal, my illness will not ever go away, but I can manage it fairly well. No I can’t always manage it at 100%, but most times, I do a fantastic job of at least masking it. It’s like they say, “what you see is not always you get” I save that part for private, behind-the-scenes so-to-speak because as I said, I put my best foot forward.

So if your reading this and you are a friend or business acquaintance or you need to reassure your new friends, old friends, business acquaintances or whomever that they need not be worried or treat you like you have the plague because you are just fine, if not better than the average person. And that anyone in life can be dangerous or crazy and can stem from a combination of factors of both nature and nurture. “Crazy” doesn’t discriminate it can affect anyone, anywhere, anytime. So rest assured, your new friends or business acquaintances can be certain you don’t have the plague.

Bipolar I and II Disorder

2010-03-07T17:57:00.000-08:00

Yes there really is such a thing as Bipolar II. I know first hand all about Bipolar II, as I have suffered from Bipolar II for many years. So what are the differences between them you ask? From my experience and from Mamas Health, Bipolar I is the "classic" form of Bipolar Disorder. It is characterized by widely spaced, long-lasting bouts of mania followed by long-lasting bouts of depression. Sometimes the person may experience or have long-lasting bouts of depression followed by long-lasting bouts of mania. Between Bipolar episodes, the individual often experiences the normal range of moods. In most cases of Bipolar I disorder, the depressive phrases far out number the manic phases, and the cycles of mania and depression are not regular or predictable. Bipolar II Disorder is characterized by depressive episodes with occasional bouts of hypomania (low-grade manic symptoms). Individuals with Bipolar II Disorder do not experience full-blown manic phases.

Bipolar Disorder can be severe and long-term or it can be mild with infrequent episodes like I have. If you want to have mild and infrequent episodes like I do, then you need to find the right combination of medicines. It wan't until 2005 when I was diagnosed correctly with Bipolar II. For many years I had "assumed" the diagnosis of such things as major depression, clinical depression even borderline personality disorder. One of the most important things you can do for yourself is to know all about the disorders and the differences between the two.

I experienced many of the symptoms of Bipolar I, but never really had full-blown mania, nor long-term mania. So I never thought to mention that to my doctors until 2005, hence all the incorrect diagnosis' over the years. Once I mentioned it to my doctor and he discussed all the in's and out's of Bipolar II with me, the pieces of the puzzle all came together. A huge weight felt like it was lifted off my shoulders immediately. I could finally breath a sigh of relief, no more guessing. I was finally diagnosed and treated appriately. Now, I take the correct medications, receive counseling, (when/if I need it) follow the suggested activities and protocol. And I now lead a much happier, healthier, functional lifestyle. So as you can see, there is hope for you too!

*For more information about Bipolar I and Bipolar II Disorders and their symptoms, please visit:

NAMI MHA SAMHSA

Mental Illness in the Workplace

2009-04-09T21:34:00.000-07:00

Mental Illness in the Workplace

By Kate McLaughlin

With an estimated 26.2 percent of Americans ages 18 and older — about one in four adults — suffering from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year, mental Illness, either directly or indirectly, affects nearly every person in the workplace; but it's still an unspoken and neglected reality for most companies. In order to improve productivity and create a more stable, committed workforce, companies need to make efforts to remove the stigma often associated with mental illness and address the needs it creates in the workplace.

Consider the following:

Absenteeism
Mental illness is the leading cause of absenteeism in the workplace - higher than heart condition, diabetes and back problems combined.

“Presenteeism”
Depression is the leading cause of "presenteeism" where an employee shows up for work but is not engaged in their jobs, affecting their productivity.

Disability
Mental disorders are the leading cause of disability in the U.S. and Canada for ages 15-44.

Cost
Untreated mental illness costs the USA $105 billion in lost productivity each year, with U.S. employers footing up to $44 billion of the bill, according to the National Mental Health Association.

Threat of Litigation
Federal guidelines issued in 1997 explain how employers can make accommodations for employees with serious mood disorders. Those who don't make accommodations could be sued. In 2004, the EEOC took in $469,000 in financial settlements for employees who complained that they'd been discriminated against because of depression: 889 cases were filed. By 2005, that amount ballooned to more than $3 million: 1,005 cases were filed in that fiscal year.

How can a company combat the myths, lift the stigma and address mental health needs in the workplace?

Here are five suggestions:

Take a Stand
This clear message needs to be communicated to every employee: The organization has a nondiscriminatory attitude — it sees mental illness as no different from physical illness in terms of how people are treated in the workplace.

Teach & Train
Training and information on mental-health facts, myths and stigma should be provided to all super visors.

Inform

All employees should be told — without having to ask — about insurance coverage for mental health care.

Protect
Companies should eradicate coverage gaps and lags. Mental health coverage often lags behind coverage for physical ailments. Health plans may restrict the number of times an employee can see a mental health provider, for example. Americans battling depression with limited access to mental health care could face bills of $18,000 annually to cover health-related expenses due to their condition, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Those with limited access were four times as likely to quit their jobs.

Educate & Eradicate Stigma
Business should promote Mental Illness Awareness Week in the workplace through lunch and learns, managerial training to spot signs and symptoms, and corporate emails outlining various mental health issues, community mental health resources, and reminders that mental health is just as important as physical health; and that mental illness is treatable.

Despite the fact that they are often creative and productive employees, people with a mental illnesses face the highest degree of stigmatization in the workplace and the greatest barriers to employment opportunities. Mental Illness is not a character flaw; it's a treatable illness. By becoming more informed about mental illness, employers and coworkers can alleviate stigma and help an employee diagnosed with a mental illness to be a healthy, productive part of the team.

About the Author: Kate McLaughlin writes, speaks and advocates for mental health awareness. She is available to speak at events for high school & college students and faculties, as well as mental health support groups. Visit her at: Kate McLaughlin and read her newest book, MOMMY I'M STILL IN HERE.

Source: www.isnare.com

Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=305408&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet

My Personal Struggle with Mental Ilness

2008-04-29T17:30:00.000-07:00

Updated: 8/09

My story of mental illness began in my early childhood, as I remember having struggles within myself even at the tender young age of four. I had a bit of a rocky childhood, and as I got older began to get migraines around the age of 12, and in addition began having bouts with depression, and mood swings. Over the next several years I fought on and off with the depression and mood swings, even attempting suicide and being hospitlized for two weeks at the young age of 25. I recovered and went on about my life. Later, I met someone, we were married, things were good for a while; but I still had the struggles with the mood swings and depression that led to me taking an overdose of pills on three more occasions, however I didn't report it or go to the hospital for these. Sadly, since that time, I divorced once, became engaged a second time, then unengaged, lost three cars, three homes and four jobs. And that's just a quick summarization of the difficulties and struggles I've dealt with in relation to my mental illness. I was originally diagnosed with clinical depression, and in addition, social & general anxiety disorders, plus panic attacks. That was until 2007 when they told me I had Bipolar II instead of Clinical Depression. With Bipolar II, I have the downs (severe depression) majority of the time, rather than the highs, and when I do have the highs they're not too often, don't last long, and are not severe like that of Bipolar I. That's why I never imagined I was Bipolar, but now, it all makes sense.

Bipolar II basically took over and ruined my life. I have times in my life when I feel perfectly normal and even feel extremely creative, outgoing and vibrant, even grandiousity at times, but most times it's the opposite, as well as a great struggle. Most people to look at me would have no idea, nor ever imagine what I deal with personally. I have a fight within myself each and every day of my life, and probably will for the remainder of my life. During my earlier, and more stable years, I did quite well in my writing classes, especially in community college...earned mostly A's and B's. I had a range of studies from Psychology, Sociology and Writing to Photography, Music, Religion, Business and Computer related courses. I often thought I might end up becoming a writer, but unfortunately with this disease, and the mood and concentration problems that come with it, sometimes as much as I want to, and enjoy writing, the cooperation just isn't there. So, I just write what I can, when I can, the best that I can. One thing I have learned is that this illness becomes worse and more difficult to deal with the older I get.

So what keeps me going? Well I would have to say it's a combination of things such as therapy, medication, and support (emotional and physical), and dealing with each day one day at a time. So far, I have been doing well, but of course, I still have my great days, good days, bad days and very bad days. Everyone is different, so what doesn't work for one, may work for another, and vice versa, so it's important to try many different avenues of therapy. Also, even though I lost a lot of faith along my rocky road, I have gone back to watching my favorite preacher and author, Joyce Meyer's "Enjoying Everyday Life" as well as reading my daily devotions. Joyce Meyer gives me an extra added boost, and is very uplifting and encouraging. She has been great to me in providing me with with free books, cd's and tapes. I try not to think way ahead of what may or may not be, but rather just try to focus on the day at hand, and to just get through one day at a time.

And what do I do to get through each day? Try to keep my mind busy, it's a mixture of things. As it had gotten to be impossible for me to obtain or hold down full-time employment with my illness, I filed (and was awarded Social Security Disability in the summer of 2008) as suggested by my Doctors and Counselors. In addition, I do some limited WAH opportunities within allowment, marketing/promo, online research and occasional field work for Marketing/Promotional assignments as an Independent Agent for a couple of companies. In addition, I spend time socialy with friends either in person or online, and I do some reading, puzzles, watching my favorite shows on tv, cooking, grocery shopping, visiting family, walking and/or going to the gym and of course housework. I also continiously work on my website I created in early 2007 (to assist/help others in any way possible that I can, and it allows me to work & co-exist with my illness) Resourceful Living, And though I don't do this often enough as I should or would like to, I spend time writing and working on all my blogs:

R4U -"Life Matters" http://www.kctool.blogspot.com/
"Mental Health Matter's" http://www.mhmatters.blogspot.com/
"Simply Go Green" http://www.simplygogreen.blogspot.com/ and
"Work at Home Housewives" http://www.wahhousewives.blogspot.com/

To some, it may not seem like much, but in reality...it can sometimes be a lot...for me anyway and it get's me through the day. I can say though, no matter what, without my meds, I don't think anything else would get me through the day...the medication is a very important part, as well as having continued support of all kinds.

As for " getting through the toughest of times", it's not just what I hang on to as it is even more what I'm afraid of such as: leaving my son alone (although he's grown), pain (both mental and physical for me) I would inflict upon myself and my son from suicide, and being in this world or even leaving this world as a failure. I hope what I have shared helps in someone out there, even if in some small way.

As for me, I'm just taking it one day at a time, and trying to trust the rest will come by patience, love, support, assistance, and help from other humane people, and by way of the LORD. If you or someone you know is dealing with mental illness, please support and encourage them, be their friend and PLEASE get help or help them obtain help, because they need you, whether they admit it or not. Please offer your support and understanding, don't criticize, don't judge, don't discriminate, mental illness is a disease like any other disease.

For help or more information concerning mental illness, please visit the website listed above for National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or any of the websites listed below.

Mental Health America (MHA)

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance

National Institute of Mental Health

Mayo Clinic

Mental Health America

Powerful anti-stigma tools to change hearts, minds, and attitudes about mental illness

2007-07-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately there is a strong stigma still associated with mental illness, and if you would like more information, tools and tips on dealing with the stigma of Mental Illness, IOVV is something you should read and check into.

There needs to be more emphasis on getting rid of the stigma to mental illness once and for all. We need to speak out and challenge stereotypes and to educate society about the reality of mental illness and the courageous struggles faced by consumers and families every day. The goal is to break down the barriers of ignorance, prejudice, or unfair discrimination by promoting education, understanding, and respect.

And what is IOOV? In Our Own Voice (IOOV) is a unique public education program developed by NAMI in which two trained consumer speakers share compelling personal stories about living with mental illness and achieving recovery.
IOOV is an opportunity for those who have struggled with mental illness to gain confidence and to share their individual experiences of recovery and transformation. Throughout the IOOV presentation audience members are encouraged to offer feedback and ask questions. Audience participation is an important aspect of IOOV because the more audience members become involved, the closer they come to understanding what it is like to live with a mental illness and stay in recovery.
IOOV presentations are given to consumer groups, students, law enforcement officials, educators, providers, faith community members, politicians, professionals, inmates, and interested civic groups. All presentations are offered free of charge. Groups or organizations interested in seeing a presentation may request that one be given in their area through their state or local affiliate.
The goals of IOOV are to meet the need for consumer- run initiatives, to set a standard for quality education about mental illness from those who have been there, to offer genuine work opportunities, to encourage self confidence and self esteem in presenters, and to focus on recovery and the message of hope.
IOOV was started with a grant from Eli Lily and Company.

To learn more about fighting stigma you may visit the National Anti-Stigma Campaign sponsored by SAMHSA and the U.S. Ad Council

Bipolar has many faces...

2007-07-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

Bipolar disorder has many faces, emotions and actions. Those of happiness or sadness, elated or desperate and destructive, fully energized or total exhaustion. Sometimes it can be so smart, clever and creative, and can even hold down a great 40 hour a week job, and even convince others they are at the top of their game. But it can also scare people, drain bank accounts, get them into severe debt fast, lose jobs, homes and drive away friends, family and loved ones. In some of the most severe cases, it can even bring on the voices of heaven or hell.

I myself live with Bipolar II, a less severe form, but nevertheless just as debilitating as Bipolar I. So for those of you out there who live with Bipolar, NAMI and bp Magazine has a great and very informative article entitled, "The many faces & facets of bp," written by Michelle Roberts. I suggest this reading for anyone who is dealing with a mental disorder, whether personally or you know someone who struggles from a mental disorder. And if not, I still suggest you read this article because at some point you have dealt with someone who had/has a mental disorder and may not even be aware, so please read on. For more information on Mental Illness, click on any of the links on my page. There you can find tons of resources such as books, tapes, tests, support groups, medications, tools and assistance for living with a mental illness.
http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=48300&lstid=275

Act Now to Support Critical Mental Health Funding
The US House of Representatives will be voting on the Labor-HHS
Appropriations bill which provides critical mental health funding।
http://www.nami.org/template.cfm?template=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm&ContentID=48322&lstid=275

Mental Health America & PsychCentral Partner to Create Online Mental Health Social and Information Network!

2007-07-07T21:38:00.000-07:00

More great news I came across in my research....
http://www.nmha.org/index.cfm?objectid=693824EE-1372-4D20-C832698DC8B1BF04

NEWBURYPORT, Mass. and ALEXANDRIA, Va. – June 20, 2007 – Mental Health America, the nation's leading non-profit mental health organization, and Psych Central® (http://www.psychcentral.com/) today announced that the two organizations are partnering to create a comprehensive online mental health social and information network. Planned for launch later this year, the partnership will create the nation's leading network to provide consumers with the most credible, trustworthy and high-quality mental health information and community on the Internet.

"Wiith an increasing number of people turning to online resources for mental health information, there needs to be reliable content supported by established organizations," said David L. Shern, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America. "This partnership will bring quality content to a growing network of people promoting mental wellness and result in additional clarity for those who seek trusted mental health information online," said Shern.

The partnership will feature content from both organizations, including daily news articles, research briefs, book reviews, interviews with leading experts, online community forums, and more. The portal will also enable consumers to personalize content based on their needs. For example, if someone is interested in depression, he or she will be able to sign up to receive this custom content delivered daily.

“We’re extremely proud to be able to partner with Mental Health America for this effort,” said Dr. John M. Grohol, Psy.D., founder and publisher of Psych Central. “For more than 12 years, Psych Central has been helping to break down the stigma related to mental health issues through its online efforts. This partnership is the next step in support of that cause. Together, we’ll integrate the best mental health information and help grow a community while providingnew ways for people to connect with each other,” said Grohol.
According to the Pew Internet & American Life Project, more than 25 percent of Internet users search for mental health information online.1 This increased interest along with the growing number of choices for consumers to receive mental health information, it’s never been so important that sites maintain strong ethical standards and adhere to stringent privacy policies.

Psych Central has been consistently recognized as one of the top resources for mental health and psychology information online serving more than 600,000 visitors each month with more than 10,000 pages of content. Mental Health America, formerly known as the National Mental Health Association, has a network of more than 320 affiliates nationwide that support the awareness and support of mental health issues.

About Psych Central Psych Central®, located at PsychCentral.com, is a leading mental health portal that features original, peer-reviewed editorial content, news, research briefs, clinical trials, ratings and reviews of medications and treatments, the popular World of Psychology blog, and a thriving online support community. Each month more than 600,000 people visit Psych Central’s independent libraries and communities, contribute to their own blogs, take an interactive screening quiz, and track their progress over time. Founded in 1995, Psych Central is published by John M. Grohol, Psy.D., a pioneer and expert in online mental health. Dr. Grohol's leadership helped to break down the barriers of stigma often associated with mental health concerns, bringing trusted resources to the Internet.

Psych Central does not provide professional diagnosis or treatment. About Mental Health America
Mental Health America is the country's leading nonprofit dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives. With our more than 320 affiliates nationwide, we represent a growing movement of Americans who promote mental wellness for the health and well-being of the nation - everyday and in times of crisis.

Synopsis: Mental Health America and Psych Central today announced a partnership that will create an online mental health information and social network. The site will feature original news and resource content. MHA is the country’s oldest and largest mental health advocacy group. Psych Central was founded in 1995 by Dr. John Grohol, Psy.D. to help break down the stigmaassociated with finding mental health information online.
Tags: Psych Central PsychCentral Grohol John National Mental Health Association America News Content Online Social Networking Network Web 2.0 Partnership Advocacy Links: Psych Central: http://www.psychcentral.com/ Mental Health America: http://www.mentalhealthamerica.com/