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The Cycle

These last few months have shown me how my mental health symptoms comes to the surface in cycles. That's my bipolar element of the schizoaffective disorder. Living with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder can be rough therefore I appreciate my good days when I can get more work done and boost my self-confidence through completing different tasks.


    For a while I was waking up tired. Mentally drained without reason. I felt exhausted and unmotivated. Sometimes, I slept my days away. 


    I'm grateful for my good days. Lately, I've had better days. Now I can get out of bed more easily and concentrate on the tasks at hand to complete assignments. I'm proud of myself for doing the small tasks like house chores and other responsibilities such as work.


    I found a way to work smarter and not harder. I'm thankful for what I can achieve. Whenever I pray I give thanks to my higher power for my sanity. I don't take these things for granted.


    I've learned over and over again the most effective approaches to getting out of the ditches are working closely with my doctor on medication adjustments and therapist. Also, getting more support from my inner circle of family and friends.


    I was good at following a routine to remember to take my medication. Whenever I get up for the day I'd take my morning meds. At night before bed I would take my nighttime medicine.


    My therapist and I decided to follow a scheduled medication regimen. I take my medication around the same time daily. I keep a log on my phone that captures the time stamp of medicine taken for the day. It's working for me- being on a schedule does make the medication more effective. 


    I've been checking in with my support system. The other day it was tough. While on the phone I decided to go for a walk. This check-in and exercise was the antidote to the poisonous energy drainer. Afterwards, I felt energized and well.


    My mental health struggles will remain and most likely work in cycles but like gravity what goes up must come down. Likewise, I'm still learning. Learning how to control the waves in my storms. Yes, this is tough but I can manage with my treatment team and support system.


How will you control your cycles of stress?


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