Now that you have schizophrenia do you feel challenged? My step-father asked me this earlier today.
The issue with having schizophrenia is that you are constantly concerned with the fear of having a relapse and being sent back to the hospital. Or having recurring symptoms that make it hard for you to function, despite medication compliance.
Schizophrenia is a challenge, however, I turn it into motivation. Schizophrenia makes me take things more slowly compared to past activities and/or events, however, I still believe I can fulfill goals. I do not limit myself or stigmatize myself because of the illness. However, I do acknowledge I have an illness and find ways to cope with it. For example, people with schizophrenia frequently display flat emotion. Accordingly, I try to be more vocal about my feelings.
I believe everyone has an issue or challenge whether it be an addiction, a medical ailment, a mental disorder, a personality disorder, or problems with relationships and family, and so on; nobody is perfect. I still push myself to be independent to an extent and to take a part in the community. For instance, my goal is to complete college. I will carry out this goal, but it will take a little longer because I will have to go to school part-time, or less than part-time in order for the course load not to trigger symptoms.
I strongly believe I can overcome this illness with medication compliance, therapy, and support. Without these elements I would not be able to do half the things I am doing now. In other words, I feel challenged, but not as much as a result of the treatments I am taking advantage of. I will turn this ordeal around to work in my favor. I know that if I perform too many activities at once it could lead to unnecessary stress, and that would lead to symptoms returning. Therefore, I will take baby steps with everything I do, while returning to school, doing my marketing internship, and living life.
What challenges do you face?
My name is Ashley. I started this blog in 2008 to record learning experiences, coping skills, and life as it relates to schizophrenia. In the beginning, it was my sister's idea to start this blog, I did not know what to expect. However, I've journalled since childhood so it was therapuetic to articulate thoughts and feelings online and to get a response. I take medication to treat my illness, however, I am not opposed to alternative forms of treatment. Here is my story...
The Author
- Ashley Smith
- Atlanta, Georgia, United States
- I was diagnosed with adult onset paranoid schizophrenia at the age of 20... I experienced the ups and downs of mental illness- incarceration, hospitalization, personal care home, outpatient treatment program and clubhouse- but i survived it! Now, I share my life with you of how I am coping with my illness. I hope this blog encourages you to seek PROFESSIONAL help for yourself or a loved one... Please comment. Thank you!
4 comments:
You have a great attitude!
I love the way you are taking care of yourself. It took me until I was in my mid thirties to try that route!
You will succeed, because you have a great outlook and insight.
It's taken me so long to realize that I need to go at a pace that won't wear me down. Rushing is the best way for me to get sick again.
You go, girl!
i have a theory of mental illness. i discuss it on my blog: http://gettingyourbusiness.blogspot.com
Hi Valash,
Thanks for stopping by my blog. I just discovered your blog last week. I think you have a great attitude and because of it I'm sure you will do well in school and get your degree, but you are right, go slow and steady, don't overdo. That's how I got my degree. So take advantage of the help you can get, i.e. meds, therapy, support groups, art therapy, blogging, exercise, family and friends and keep on keeping on.
Kate : )
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