We all want our loved ones to be happy, and when you’re caring for someone who is struggling with depression, it’s common to feel hopeless or stuck. Whomever it is in your life that has depression, whether it’s your friend, spouse, or family member, it can be painful to watch…
How Self-Advocacy Can Reduce the Stigma of Schizophrenia
In today’s world, mental illness is still, unfortunately, stigmatized. While there is a movement to reduce stigma, we still have a long way to go. It may surprise you, but some of the biggest culprits of fearing and having preconceptions about mental illness are those who have it. I wish…
Discovering Your Identity During Recovery
When you are struggling with an addiction to drugs and alcohol, it can consume you and your identity. The things you once loved are gone, and your “hobbies” are now wrapped up in getting more substances. Now that you are in recovery, it’s time to reclaim your identity or create…
Managing Your Mania
WHAT IS BIPOLAR DISORDER? Bipolar disorder (Type I) is a mental illness characterized by having prolonged fluctuations between manic and major depressive episodes, whereas bipolar disorder (Type II) is characterized by fluctuations between hypomanic and major depressive episodes. People who have bipolar disorder experience intense emotional instability and find it…
Practicing Mindfulness to Get Through Your Addiction
Are you struggling with a drug, alcohol, or behavioral addiction? While you are on your path to sobriety, you’ll probably face unexpected bumps in the road. There may be events or thoughts that trigger your desire to drink or use drugs. No one ever said getting sober is easy, but…