NAMI Blog

When you have mental illness, it can be hard to find others who understand. And the loneliness can make symptoms even worse, creating a cycle of isolation. Here are a few ways to stay connected even during challenging phases of mental illness.

When it comes to coping with mental illness, we tend to focus on what we should be doing. But it is just as important to avoid actions that hold us back from getting better.

"Sharing a mind and body with several unique identities ensures a chaotic life. However, I’ve found that we [my "parts" and I] have the power to safely guide ourselves by implementing helpful interventions." 
 

"My health anxiety gives me the sensation of being held hostage by my own body. As though my cells, tissues and organs do not belong to me. Instead, I must do as they please."

Managing traumatic stress can be incredibly challenging, especially when symptoms are unpredictable and make it difficult to function. It can be helpful to have tools at the ready for when you’re feeling the scary reach of traumatic stress.

"Many people with serious mental health conditions struggle to accept their diagnoses and the implications it means for their life—and I was no exception. I felt as if I was giving up my identity for one I didn’t want."

Dealing with depression is always hard, but especially during the winter months when symptoms are even worse for many. 

For Carrie, part of her bipolar disorder is not being able to tell when she's ramping towards a manic episode. Here's how she stays self-aware of her symptoms. 

"A big part of learning to cope with anxiety has been accepting the condition as part of my life. Telling myself it’s not “a real mental illness” is like denying its presence, which only makes the
anxiety stronger."

When you live with depression, it's hard to feel hopeful that a new year will be better. However, you can feel better. Here are a few resolutions to get started.