mental health blogger Archives – Page 5 of 5

Cognitive Symptoms, Disorganized symptoms, Hallucinations, Recovery, Schizoaffective Disorder

A letter to myself on the day of my diagnosis

August 5, 2020 / 0 Comments

8/5/2020 I know your mind is spinning right now. It’s August 5, 2008 and the words, “it’s looking to be schizophrenia,” are turning over and over in your head. You won’t ever forget the tone in her voice when she said it or her red nails. This day feels like the end of everything you’ve ever known, but it’s actually just the beginning of something entirely new. Your diagnosis will ultimately be updated to schizoaffective disorder, and you will struggle at first – with understanding your disorder, with the symptoms, the medication, and also the constant anxiety of being found out. But contrary to what you believe, those close to you will…

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Katie
A Day in the Life, Disorganized symptoms, Hallucinations, Schizoaffective Disorder

A Day in My Life With Schizoaffective Disorder – When Symptoms Flare

July 25, 2020 / 3 Comments

Mental illnesses affect everyone differently. When I experience symptoms, to outsiders it may look like nothing is wrong. Here’s a glimpse behind the curtain of what a recent flare up was like for me. I pushed my post-traumatic stress disorder yesterday. I went to a place that I usually avoid. I’m proud of myself for that, but I’m paying a price. I had flashbacks that evening, and symptoms of psychosis crept in, the tide rising on me today. I take my time getting ready this morning. In general, when I’m stressed or anxious, I feel better if I’ve put effort into my appearance; it’s a form of self-care for me.…

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Katie

Hi, my name is Katie, and over the course of my life, I’ve struggled with mental illnesses like depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. My illnesses brought me fear, shame, and a profound feeling of isolation. Recovery wasn’t always easy, but, despite the obstacles, I’ve accomplished a great deal. I graduated from a highly ranked college, hold down jobs, have meaningful relationships, and now speak publicly about living with mental illness, primarily schizoaffective disorder. I created this blog to break down preconceived notions about mental illness, and to show you that, not only can you go on to have a fulfilling life after being diagnosed with a mental illness or brain disease, but also that everyone’s story is unique, and, even when you’re not like the others, you’re not alone. Whether you have a mental illness yourself or are looking to help or better support someone else, know that no matter what you’re going through, there is hope.