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Remembering the Amazing Month of September 2018

Thank you... I thank my readers for exploring mental health concerns with me for 10 YEARS, and counting, on this blog! September 2018 was an exceptional month; full of highs AND lows. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to speak at two conferences, and to share insight on my lived experience. Also, I am grateful to celebrate another birthday with my family, friends.

Mark Lawrence, Stomp the Stigma
First, the Stomp the Stigma conference addressed youth, families, schools, and the larger community. Now having experienced two major setbacks, and hospitalizations away from home, life, responsibility, my norm, etc. At Stomp the Stigma, I was a panelist along with four caregivers, and parents, of individuals like myself; living in recovery. We had lively discussion about concerns, and our ways of coping as family to support, to endure recovery, and to live a hopeful life, which can be difficult for the individual, and loved ones. Again, I was diagnosed with schizophrenia as a young adult being 20 years old. At this event, I shared information on how my family copes with my condition then, and now with my recent 2018 hospitalization.

2018 Mental Health Conference Voices of Hope
Second, the 2018 Mental Health Conference Voices of Recovery was a great experience because it was presented by the church, for the community, and it entailed a lot of believers who shared their testimonies, spoke on mental health problems, AND ways to minimize concerns! I facilitated a workshop titled: "Coping Takes Work! The Workshop." 


My workshop introduced the theme of my next book, What's On My Mind? Coping Takes Work! My workshop was amazing, because of the following reasons: (1) I shared my recovery story, and bits of my recent hospitalization, (2) I brought participants into the hospital setting with scenarios, and (3) we each shared a little bit about our own concerns with mental health challenges as peers, family, and caregivers. The event was held at the House of Hope church in Decatur, Georgia. I enjoyed these conferences, because I disclosed parts of my recovery that once brought me down, however, strengthens me, today!

Ashley Smith, Birthday Girl
Lastly, I am another year older! I enjoyed my party with close family and friends. We had a great time laughing, talking about these events, and playing one of my favorite games; spades. I loved the entertainment and more importantly, the company. 

Finally, I am grateful to God for bringing me to this day. As I reflect on my recovery I cannot help but know and believe my experience is a miracle! I could've have been in many difficult places, and not free, nor well. However, The Spirit, The One, our Creator, brought me back, in a "good place."

I thank you readers. I thank my family, and friends. I thank my many supporters. I thank my GOD. 

****If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health conditions do seek professional support, and self-help groups for you and your family. Your county mental health center, and local NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness affiliate)... The blessing, our blessing, is the mind, a "good place," and living life, itself! Thank you.****

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