How to start over again…….

[Limitededition]

Hi 

I’m new here but not new to mental health or a breakdown & how to start again (it’s frustrating cause I feel like just when I get “normal” something happens & throws me backwards). I will lose the last few ppl I have left if I keep going so I’m after any help or advice on how to prevent the crisis or seeing it soon & getting help without destroying my life please? I have anxiety, depression, ADHD, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis so I’m a lunch box of fun NOT!!! 

[ShadowMod]

Hey @Limitededition 

We wanted to take this opportunity to welcome you to the forums. We hope that you find the forums a great place to connect with other members, share stories and ideas, and find the support and connection you deserve. 

 

We hear there's a lot going on for you right now, and whilst you are new to the forums, navigating mental health is something you are well-acquainted with. Like any kind of recovery, mental health recovery comes with its peaks and valleys, and experiencing setbacks after a period of 'normalcy' is actually quite common. Being able to recognise these changes showcases great self-awareness, and this places you in a great position to get the support you deserve. It's during these times that connecting with professional supports is so important, as they are able to work with you in developing strategies to support your safety and wellbeing. If you are feeling comfortable and ready, then we encourage you to connect with a mental health helpline for some one-on-one support. We will link you with some services here!

It takes courage to share your experiences with the community, and you are being really brave reaching out to your peers.  We wonder if anyone else can relate, and can perhaps share what strategies help you to stay out of mental health crisis?

   

Feel free to Introduce yourself here if you haven’t already, and we look forward to seeing you around on the forums!  

[tyme]

Hi @Limitededition ,

Great to see you around. I read you have a suite of challenges, and the physical pain that comes with arthritis certainly doesn't help one's mental health!

Have you ever been able to map out preventative strategies, warning signs, triggers, crisis and recovery in a plan? I wonder if you have someone you can work with to map this out so that you have it on hand when things are getting a bit scratchy?

[AlwaysMyself]

@Limitededition welcome.

"prevent the crisis or seeing it soon"

I agree with tyme that identifying the triggers (or "orange lights") has been really helpful for me. And sometimes my close family have also been in a position to notice them and check in with me if they are concerned I may be deteriorating too. 🙂

Have there been times when you have known you are not doing well but chosen not to seek help? If so, do you know what the barriers were for you to not seek help?
(e.g. for myself it has often been financial reasons at the cost of counselling support, but sometimes it has also been forgetting how helpful it can be to have someone to talk to even if they can't "help" or "fix" it).

[Spencer71]

It makes complete sense that you’re exhausted and frustrated — starting over again is tough, and anyone in your situation would feel worn out. Reaching out here shows a lot of insight and strength, and it says you do care about your wellbeing and your relationships.
With anxiety, depression, ADHD and chronic pain conditions, your system is constantly working overtime. None of this is a character flaw — it’s a lot to carry, and you’re doing the best you can.
Preventing a crisis doesn’t have to mean big changes. Sometimes it’s noticing the small early signs, reaching out to one safe person, reducing one thing on your plate, or having a simple plan for when things start to slip. Small steps can stabilise things more than you think.
You’re not alone, and wanting support is a strength.

[tyme]

Hey @Limitededition , I believe the post above from @Spencer71 was for you. 

Thanks @Spencer71  for your post. It was very encouraging! Nice to e-meet you.