I've been doing much better in the last 2 yrs. and was curious about the rest of you, whom seem to be struggling witht their problems. What are your secrets of staying " sane " ? Well somewhat sane, lol! Also what meds. are you on that you feel have helped you through the tough spots.
2007-01-13 12:32:00 · 8 answers · asked by One Hand One Heart 2 in Health ➔ Mental Health
Less tjhan a year for me.
2007-01-13 12:37:04 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
In and out since I was 6 (I'm now 30.) This is probably the most stable I've ever been and I believe it is because of finding the right meds and taking them correctly, as well as having learned DBT (a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy)...which has taught me a lot of life skills, awareness and ways of coping that I simply did not have before.
I have thoroughly educated myself on my illnesses and become a very active part of my own treatment, both of which are empowering. I try to eat well balanced meals, keep a somewhat regular sleep schedule (although for me, regular is going to bed by 2 AM), and exercise 3-6 times a week. I would say one of the most significant things is acceptance of what is wrong (and that I really am dealing with biologically based disorders), willingness to make changes, and being gentle on myself when I Fu@k up. Also, it's important to realize that each moment is a moment to start fresh. There is no going back and undoing whatever has been done (or said) but we can learn from the mistakes and use that knowledge in order to try to respond differently in the future.
I've been on 19 different psych meds in more combinations than I can possibly recall. Right now I take 300 mg Wellbutrin XL, 50-100 mg Seroquel, .5 mg Ativan, and 75 mg Lamictal (my dose of this is still in the processed of being raised to a maintnance dose....around 200 mg.) My dx's are Bipolar 2, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Generalized/Social Anxiety Disorder.
Things aren't perfect and there are definitely many moments where I find myself not all that sane (to put it mildly!)
On other thing that has been very important for me is that I am part of an internet/email support group for bpd/bp. I actually co-run the group. That endless support and understanding has made a really big difference for me.
2007-01-14 20:32:50 · answer #2 · answered by Jess 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sanity is overrated ... normal is defined as a balance between extremes... not for me, baby! I earned my first diagnosis 48 years ago and I've been hospitalized for exhibiting signs of "psychiatric distress"... gimme a bloody break! Sure, I got issues... I am the product of my experience and memories and my childhood was a nightmare. I am here to tell the tale. I have a PRN (as needed) 'scrip for klonipin which is 3 years old. I practice wellness, I am proactive about my mental wellness... check out the site below which is just one of about a bazillion internet entries that can help you stay mentally well.... there are also mutual support/self-help groups where folks get together to share how they cope with life's distresses
join the recovery community :) it is not formal... no membership dues or nothing... just folks moving forward on the same path
you are in good company... imho, it is the sensitive, creative mind that often suffers the most distress... you are among the greats without whom this world would not be as it is
2007-01-13 21:13:05 · answer #3 · answered by dornalune 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When I was a teen I had problems that I never thought would turn around but they always do.
To stay sane I put everything into perspective and learn about Spirituality and my Destiny. Once you know your Destiny in Life you have a direct path to follow.
Here are some great books that can change your life:
The luck Factor by Dr. Richard Wiseman
Discover your Destiny by Robin Sharma
The Eagle and the Rose by Rosemary Althea
Life on the Other side by Sylvia Browne
The Five People You meet in Heaven by Mitch Alborn
These helped me and they can help you to, try one.
2007-01-13 20:44:49 · answer #4 · answered by Nevada Pokerqueen 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I had rage issues for several years but I controlled it with the help of therapy and meditation. I still have outburts once in a while but that usually requires me watching president Bush or Bill Orielly on TV. Being around supportive people who understand your condition is also a great asset. This doesnt mean dropping all the friends you have now but to educate them about the problems you are dealing with and if they are your real friends then they will be supportive. Good Luck to you and have a wonderfull day!
2007-01-13 20:40:55 · answer #5 · answered by a_rajalonghorn 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm a 74 year old veteran who was labeled schizophrenic (DDD) while in the military service. I no longer have hallucinations and am happy and healthy although still taking "risperdal" a neuroleptic drug. I have been in Veterans Administration hospitals several times (relapsed) and continuously under the care of a psychiatrist for over 40 years. I was able to work in my profession for 15 years and attended a couple universities to stay up with things.
2007-01-13 21:41:00 · answer #6 · answered by Mad Mac 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I was prone to depression until I read "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff, and It's All Small Stuff" by Richard Carlson, PHD. I keep it by the loo and read a little bit of it everytime I visit there. Works for me.
2007-01-13 20:40:15 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeh we shared the same bed dont you remember?
2007-01-17 15:18:25 · answer #8 · answered by Brian H 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋