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Showing posts from September, 2014

Invisible Challenges: Self-Care

Me- On A "Good Day" When's the last time you managed your self-care,  well ?- Today? Yesterday?- Or has it been that long ? As a mother, employee, and volunteer, my ideal self-care activities have decreased from one extreme to another. In the past, I had pampering days that included leisure activities and visits to the nail salon, now this "me-time" has turned into tiny acts of self-reflection like maintaining my journal. My days are filled with rigorous activities I enjoy like working with peers, sharing my recovery story to diverse groups, and caring for my son. Ironically, my job as a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) is to model great self-care for the sake of my mental health. However, that is an ongoing roller coaster that I strive to shut down and to restore balance, but I am moving too fast to take back my control!  Me- T.I.R.E.D. At the End of the Day For example, besides my erratic sleep habits,  I frequently skip breakfast and s

The "Optimal Wellness Challenge"

Calling All Peers- Are YOU up for the OPTIMAL WELLNESS CHALLENGE?! I am challenging US to practice a couple of coping tools consistently for National Recovery Month, that you would like to either add or maintain in your wellness routine for 5 consecutive days each week for three weeks. I've heard that if an individual maintains a practice for 21 days it will become a habit. These practices may include: 1) Diet/nutrition & supplemental enhancement, 2) Spirituality-based, 3) Treatment/medication compliance, 4) Physical activity, 5) Effective communication, 6) Alternative therapy, 7) Creative practice, or 8) Other positive practice... I would like you to choose two new habit-forming activities you would like to practice and report back at the end of each week by sending me a personal message about your progress. I will start our "Optimal Wellness Challenge" by journaling more frequently, taking my medication at the same time every day, and to practice me

"Year of the Peer" Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network Conference

A couple of weeks ago I visited St. Simon's Island, Georgia to attend the annual Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network, Inc. (GMHCN) conference. The theme of this year's conference was "The Year of the Peer." I enjoyed the three-day conference because of the fellowship with my peers and the honor to be one of the keynote speakers among Georgia's Commissioner Frank Berry and Jana Spalding. I titled my talk, "I Choose To Live!," which was inspired by Jen's award title. I spoke about my experiences, how I am living a quality life in recovery, and what peer support looks like. My talk encouraged everyone to talk to their neighbor and to create a title for their inspirational book. The experience was amazing because I was able to get each individual to help others with their talents and gifts. Moreover, every attendee received a copy of my book, which was so exciting! I signed my book for others throughout the remaining days of the conference an