My Brain's Not Broken

Today’s guest post comes from Mio, who is the fantastic blogger behind Mentally Ill in America. Mio’s primary goal with blogging is to share with others his lived experience with schizoaffective disorder. In addition to blog posts, Mio offers up many diverse forms of writing like poetry and puns! I hope you can visit his space and continue to learn about mental health through the many different perspectives that are offered. A big shoutout to Mio for sharing today.

I have come up with three key ways to cope with severe mental illness, that help me with a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder.

Medication and Therapy (optional).

Those who have a schizophrenia type disorder (for instance), might not think they need to be medicated. However, that is precisely what people with this and other severe diagnoses require. And, it is important that they realize this sooner rather than later.

Therapy can help people (still speaking of the schizophrenia type disorders), but there are several factors that determine its efficacy. Check to see if therapy is an option for you! That and no matter how difficult things may be, you must stay on your meds (maybe forever, depending on your diagnosis)!

Support System.

There needs to be people that “get” that you are “not well.” If they are someone who understands you and that you need “loving” support, then you are on your way to having the extra help that is neededAs a side note: Illness or no illness, choose wisely the people who you let be a part of your life. This alone can make or break your success with severe mental illness!

Moving Forward.

With medication and support, things can improve. It all depends on how well you respond to the medications and how good your support system is. For me, I still struggle with routine, but I am doing the best I can. My support system has taken a dive recently, but it is growing once again.

Life is challenging, but I make the best out of my life, and do whatever I am able to to challenge myself while helping others. Being of service to others seems to be the best way that I can help make a difference in the world, and that is my primary focus.