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Unleash Your Power in Recovery

I'm in a good space in my recovery and I want you to unlock your power to get the recovery results you desire, too. In this blog article, I'll identify strategies I've personally exercised to maximize my health plan. We will reexamine the definition of recovery which is forever evolving for us. We'll discuss specific tactics to master resiliency and execute your power to take control of symptoms and your well-being.

 

Living with a mental health diagnosis can be extremely stressful if left unaddressed. Symptoms of schizophrenia range from signature signs and issues with seeing and hearing people that others do not. Severe paranoia such as being suspicious of loved ones and strangers without evidence or realistic demand. Other symptoms of schizophrenia are isolation, catatonia (being still, literally for extended periods of time), lack of awareness, confusion, lack of motivation and depression... 


Recovery is striving for a fulfilling life through self-awareness and support. Utilizing practical coping skills combined with professional recommendations are key to managing severe symptoms of the diagnosis. While I'll focus on those avenues that work for me, I must reinforce the fact there are several paths to wellness and everybody defines recovery differently - it's a vague term with countless perspectives and solutions.


Self-awareness encompasses a wide range of insight about oneself. In the past, I used Mary Ellen Copeland's WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) to provide a self-analysis of personal needs and concerns. Also, WRAP can be used as an informal psychiatric advance directive which offers a blueprint on how to identify signs of wellness and crisis. It gives instructions on how to help us in crisis by disclosing our medication regimen and doses, ideal medical facilities to visit and contact information of people who are a part of the crisis plan. The WRAP not only shares how to handle crisis but what our wellness looks like and warning signs when a setback is in the works. Mindful of triggers, warning signs and needs are important in order to let others know how to support you.


Activities we can do to enhance self-awareness includes journaling, meditation and prayer, and being intentional about our self-care routine, whatever that may look like for you.


Getting support could be challenging for us especially if we've been isolating. However, with our technology tools we could take small steps into becoming more social. Ways to increase support is getting involved in peer support to see what recovery could look like and mean for you. Participating in online support groups or simply touching base with family and friends through our phones and video calls. Frequently, I check-in with my sister to relieve daily stressors by discussing them with her. I encourage you to embrace your relationships with peers and loved ones.


Working or volunteering played a significant role at helping me stay well. By giving back to the community, I was able to maintain a routine and stay connected with others. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is nationwide and might have an affiliate near you. They provide education, support, and advocacy in the form of offering free training for families, peers, teachers, veterans and other groups. Their support groups help manage daily concerns and get feedback from those who've experienced the storms of mental health crises. I continue to volunteer with NAMI Georgia. Another way to engage in community is through our churches. In the past, I've had fellowship with members, and it was very relaxing and helpful to have that support.


 Also, making time for your projects and hobbies help develop skills to manage recovery. Staying active on personal assignments are great confidence-boosters. Doing what you enjoy and improving your skills at it helps build creativity and might lead you to entrepreneurship. 


Lastly, following doctor recommendations are key to controlling symptoms. Therapy could be a great way to learn more coping tools that you enjoy and could master. Some practical self-care activities and coping strategies includes listening to motivating talks and uplifting music, exercising, getting adequate rest, taking care of your pet, volunteering, cooking with a loved one, and meditating on nature sounds and prayer.


Finally, you have the power to minimize your stress to improve your life. You have a lot of skills to apply and give back to the community. Self-acceptance with this condition is rough but you can overcome the stigma through peer support and other supporters who see you, your efforts, and believe in your recovery. Recovery is striving to stay in a good place by controlling symptoms the best way you know how with your medical team and coping skills. I encourage you to never give up on yourself because you are resilient and hold the keys to enriching your life. 

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