KNOWLEDGE: Be Aware;

Any decisions become a process of experimentation and learning, including learning from our mistakes and changing your goals along the way. Because each of us is unique, it is as if we are navigating through labyrinth, getting lost and finding our way again, making our own map as we go. All life involves risks, each of us make decisions every day to make acceptable risks.

We as humans are all created different. Every human has the right to feel, see, hear, sense, imagine, believe or experience anything at all, in any way, at any time.

Instead of viewing the experiences of Mental Illness only as a disability which can be stigmatizing, put down, it is helpful to also view those of us who go through emotional extremes as having diverse-ability.

Society must include the needs of sensitive, creative, emotionally wounded, and unusual people who make contributions to the community beyond the standards of competition, materialism, and individualism. To truly help people who are labelled Mentally Ill, we need to rethink what is normal, in the same way we are rethinking what it means to be unable to hear, without sight, or with limited physical mobility.

Universal design and accommodating those of us who are different ultimately benefits everyone. We need to challenge able-ism in all forms. A social model of disability means accepting human differences. Our needs are intertwined with the broader needs for social justice and ecological sustainability.

When people have difficulty expressing themselves or being understood by others, they deserve accommodation, supported decision making, and patience from caring people. Help more people feel more capable of living their lives, they can take the edge off of extreme states.

Every feeling and thought exist somehow in the brain as an expression of biology, but society, mind, and learning intervene. Stress for example, is associated with brain chemistry, but one person can thrive under stressful circumstances that are debilitating to another. If learning can affect the brain in such a profound way, then we are not as limited by biology as was once believed.

Empowerment means thinking beyond a narrow view, and embracing broader ways of looking at things. Everyone needs support sometime, each of us has part of our lives where we feel powerless. We all need to learn how to balance personal responsibility with asking for help. You don’t have to blame your brain to give yourself some compassion.

If people ask it’s your decision what to say or not say, “I’m a trauma survivor” “I go through extreme states,” or “I’m different than most people, and I’m still figuring it out.” Or say nothing at all. Connecting with others who share your experiences, such as peer support groups or the internet, can be crucial as you explore who you are.

Feeling powerless or needing help, doesn’t make you a broken person or that you’re a passive victim of biology. Explanations like trauma, sensitivity, or spirituality are as valid as any.

Don’t feel judged for making the best decision you can. You have the right to do what works best for you, and other people don’t know what it’s like to live your life. Make changes to improve the quality of your life. Be observant and follow what your heart and body are saying, and look to the advice of people who care about you. Finally keep a record so that you can study the changes you are going through and share with others your experiences.
LIST YOUR TRIGGERS AND WARNING SIGNS: How do you know you are heading towards crisis, and what will you do? Sleep, isolation, strong emotions, or altered states might show you need extra care and wellness support.

CREATE A “JOURNAL” which tells people what to do if you have trouble communicating or taking care of yourself. Include instructions on what to say to you, and how to help, as well as treatment and medication preferences.

MAKE CHANGES TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE:
Don’t leave it all to the drug. Take an active interest in you overall health, alternative treatments, and wellness tools.

Get regular healthcare, and stay in communication about your medication. Get support from trusted friends or family.

Make sure you have prescription refills you need, because missing doses can add stress to your body and brain. If you miss a dose don’t double up.

If you take other medications, watch out for drug interactions. Beware mixing with recreational drugs, or alcohol, which can worsen adverse effects and be dangerous.

Learn from others, and connect with others, who’ve taken the same medications as you.

Discover what you can from a variety of sources about your medications. Use nutrition, herbs and supplements to reduce adverse effects.

Bipolar 4 Life Support TEAM @ http://www.bipolar4lifesupport.co