Sunday, August 9, 2015

new beginnings

I could probably go my entire life without writing a blog, but then my story would never be told. We all have a story and just like you my story is filled with ups and downs, twists and turns, good and bad. My story includes dark valleys and triumphant mountains. If you’re reading this, your story includes the same because you’re here. Despite the roadblocks, you’re still here.

So, my blog will delve into the experience of living with a mental illness, of being more than a survivor but rather a thriver. Yes, I am thriving with a mental illness. I run races, I’ve raised an awesome talented son, and I work full time in the mental health field as a Certified Peer Specialist. However, every day I live with the symptoms of psychosis. My diagnosis? Well, that’s complicated. Over years I’ve been told I have bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. It seems that what I have depends on which doctor you ask. What I know for certain is that I live with voices, mood swings, depression and mania.  I am more than my diagnosis. My identity includes being a daughter, sister, artist, mother, writer and professional helper.

My journey has been a process of becoming the best version of myself possible. I hope you will come along with me as I recount some of my highs and some of my lows; as I continue on this path to living a life of my choosing. After all, that’s what we all aspire to; a life lived on our own terms.

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