I don’t know if this’ll be helpful to anyone but here’s some advice from someone who has been through the system and been to some of the darkest places known to man. Here is what I have really learned and implemented over 18 years of struggling with my mental health.
Recovery IS possible. It’s hard going, a real struggle and on days when you think you cannot cope anymore…better days are coming. You WILL be happy again. We’re all climbing our individual mountains. Sometimes we stumble. But we get back up. And believe me, the view from the top can be incredible.
Things I have learned:
- 5×5. If it doesn’t matter in 5 years don’t spend more than 5 minutes worrying about it.
- Radical acceptance (is something I’ll go into on a later blog); accepting what is regardless whether you like it or not.
- Opposite action (again, I will go into later). Whenever you feel like not showering, pull your energy together into having that shower. Small achievements matter.
- Gratitude Journals. I have done these daily for the last 3 years and credit it to staying positive. It makes you see that even with a shitty mental health day there IS a positive in each day, however minor.
- Above all, be kind to yourself especially on the days you need to.
I hope this helps someone xxx
The Warrior Within 