mental illness

How Self-Advocacy Can Reduce the Stigma of Schizophrenia

How Self-Advocacy Can Reduce the Stigma of Schizophrenia

In today’s world, mental illness is still, unfortunately, stigmatized. While there is a movement to reduce stigma, we still have a long way to go. It may surprise you, but some of the biggest culprits of fearing and having preconceptions about mental illness are those who have it. I wish…

Discovering Your Identity During Recovery

Discovering Your Identity During Recovery

When you are struggling with an addiction to drugs and alcohol, it can consume you and your identity. The things you once loved are gone, and your “hobbies” are now wrapped up in getting more substances.  Now that you are in recovery, it’s time to reclaim your identity or create…

Managing Your Mania

Managing Your Mania

WHAT IS BIPOLAR DISORDER? Bipolar disorder (Type I) is a mental illness characterized by having prolonged fluctuations between manic and major depressive episodes, whereas bipolar disorder (Type II) is characterized by fluctuations between hypomanic and major depressive episodes. People who have bipolar disorder experience intense emotional instability and find it…

Practicing Mindfulness to Get Through Your Addiction

Practicing Mindfulness to Get Through Your Addiction

Are you struggling with a drug, alcohol, or behavioral addiction? While you are on your path to sobriety, you’ll probably face unexpected bumps in the road. There may be events or thoughts that trigger your desire to drink or use drugs. No one ever said getting sober is easy, but…

Using Forgiveness as a Vehicle for Inner Peace

Using Forgiveness as a Vehicle for Inner Peace

People are often reluctant to forgive others, or themselves, because they think they have to disregard their pain and emotions. If others have wronged you, or if you hurt others, forgiveness is an important tool in the healing process to help you find inner peace. The first step to forgiveness…