"I was diagnosed with Bipolar 2 and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCPD) in 2016, after struggling with it - unbeknownst to me - for years. While I was in a gnarly mixed episode during my graduate program, I did a lot of things and acted in a lot of ways that hurt people I cared about … Continue reading Ways to say I love you
Author: mentalillnesstaughtme
Time does not heal
Having the ability to address your feelings does. Accepting accountability does. Cutting out negative behaviors and people do. Recognizing your mental health is a priority does. Time made me realize that wounds can become worse if I'm not proactive. Be proud of everything you have accomplished no matter how small. Time taught me that life … Continue reading Time does not heal
Exhaustion
Over the years, I've learned how to recognize different types of exhaustion. They were not all the same and therapy helped me learn how to identify as they each needed different solutions. I want to focus on emotional and mental exhaustion. They may sound the same, yet they require different ways to handle them for me. … Continue reading Exhaustion
Regaining
Sometimes seeking treatment is about regaining your voice and your power. At times we may think that no one cares how we feel, so we hold in. We sit with these feelings that continue to weigh us down. My power comes from working through these feelings and my voice allows me to release them. Everything … Continue reading Regaining
Happy New Year
We enter a new year today. Many did not make it to see this day. Many are still struggling to make it to the next. I hope you keep fighting. I hope you find the strength to lean on what keeps you going. I hope those that didn't see today are at peace. Happy New … Continue reading Happy New Year
Holiday reminder
Reminder for the holiday season. You have ever right to not engage in any activity that would negatively affect your mental health. You also have the right to not engage in conversations that may affect your mental health. Some people may not understand this so also remember that you can only change you and your … Continue reading Holiday reminder
Me, myself, and my therapist
I had a conversation with a friend recently about this. His therapist is moving and he has to find a new one. This is someone that knows your whole world and helping you navigate it. I had the same therapist from high school until I moved for graduate school. She was there through hospitalizations, graduations, … Continue reading Me, myself, and my therapist
Falling isn’t failing
Sometimes you have a plan and life says "let's try something else." Some things I wished for, in hindsight, I'm glad they never came to fruition. For years, I shamed myself for dropping out of graduate school. Mentally and physically, I was spiraling downward. I couldn't imagine where I would be if I continued to … Continue reading Falling isn’t failing
Potential and perception
My job offers a lot of opportunities for career and personal development. Right now, I'm taking a mini course on potential. The first week, we talked about energy and emotional potential. I want to focus on emotional potential. I've talked previously about emotional intelligence (Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Coleman is a great read) and during … Continue reading Potential and perception
Forgiveness is not mandatory
While forgiveness can lead to healing, it can also keep you stuck. When it comes to others, you can't force people to accept responsibility. You can't make someone feel regret, remorse, or empathy. Given your lack of control, you can't make someone forgive for their actions. I struggled with this a lot as a very … Continue reading Forgiveness is not mandatory
