Complex Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

For as long as I can remember I have been determined not to age prematurely as far as my outlook and attitude goes. It disturbs me to see people who act like they are 20 years older than they are. It seems a waste.

I turn 66 next week but I try to have the energy and movement of a 50 year old.

Today though I got a reminder and reality check that indeed I am not in my prime anymore. Having been diagnosed with very brittle bones and having spent two much time in hospital over the last 12 months with fractures my doctor registered me with government provided assistance.

In a few days time I will be assessed and most likely the government will pay for a gardener to prune our trees and a few other garden tasks. They will most likely also provide some cleaning help. These have previously been my tasks. I have paid huge taxes over the years so I have no qualms getting free assistance but the reality I can’t do everything I used to is humbling.

I will get used to this. I must. I am sure that there would be countless people in other countries who would love government assistance like this.

I still don’t want to grow old graciously. I want to grow old outrageously large and still pioneering ideas and inspiring others. It’s time accept that sometimes we all need a little help.

Parents virtual support group is for all parents of children living with a mental health diagnosis or symptoms, regardless of the child’s age. Parents of children under 18 and parents of adult children are welcome.

This meeting is facilitated by parents of children with mental health needs. This group provides opportunities to share valuable coping strategies and practical information that helps you support your loved ones experiencing mental health challenges.

💻 If you'd like more information or would like to join, you can find the link here. Virtual groups are every 1st & 3rd Friday of the month, 10 to 11:30am Eastern Standard Time. Closed captioning is available:
naminycmetro.org/programs/parents

If you have any questions, feel free to comment below!

#Parenting #GeneralParenting
#Caregiving #BipolarDepression #BipolarDisorder #PTSD #ComplexPosttraumaticStressDisorder #Schizophrenia #ADHD #ChronicIllness #SchizoaffectiveDisorder #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder #Anxiety #ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder #Depression #MentalHealth #Selfcare #EatingDisorders #CheckInWithMe

Hi, Mighties! 💙

Last week, as we kicked off the new month, I took an actual break from "most" of my never-ending list of responsibilities. In doing so, I realized that resting is really challenging for me.

I noticed that when I slow down, my mind has more time to ponder, wander, ruminate, and reflect. Sometimes that's a good thing, but other times my thoughts can become dark or lonely in what feels like the snap of a finger. It was an uncomfortable experience, but it's also something I'm learning to navigate.

What's your relationship with rest? How does taking a break affect your mind and your mental health?

I'd love to hear your perspective. What helps you to actually rest and recharge?

#BipolarDepression #BipolarDisorder #PTSD #ComplexPosttraumaticStressDisorder #Schizophrenia #ADHD #Parenting #ChronicIllness #SchizoaffectiveDisorder #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder #Anxiety #ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder #Depression #MentalHealth #Selfcare #EatingDisorders #CheckInWithMe #CheerMeOn

Mighties, one of the biggest challenges I've faced for as long as I can remember has been recognizing when my body is stressed and understanding the best ways to release that stress so I don't end up feeling even more fatigued or anxious.

As I've learned more about my body, I've realized that I tend to hold stress in my shoulders, chest, and lower back. Body scans have been helpful for increasing my awareness, and I've also found it beneficial to intentionally pause, take a breath, and slow down when life feels especially busy or overwhelming.

Where do you tend to feel stress in your body? What techniques, methods, or routines have helped you release it?

Feel free to share your insights and experiences below! 💙

#BipolarDepression #BipolarDisorder #PTSD #ComplexPosttraumaticStressDisorder #Schizophrenia #ADHD #Parenting #ChronicIllness #SchizoaffectiveDisorder #DissociativeIdentityDisorder #Anxiety #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder #ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder #Depression #MentalHealth #Selfcare #EatingDisorders #CheckInWithMe #CheerMeOn

Family and Friends is a support group for partners, spouses, siblings, adult children, parents, cousins, aunts, uncles, guardians, caregivers, close friends and other family members of individuals with a mental illness or any mental health challenge.

This group provides opportunities to share valuable coping strategies and practical information that helps you support your loved ones experiencing mental health challenges.

💻 If you'd like more information or would like to join, you can find the link here. Virtual groups are every 2nd and 4th Tuesday, 6 to 7:30pm Eastern Standard Time. Closed captioning is available:
naminycmetro.org/programs/family-friends

🗺️ If you are in the New York City area, in person groups are every first Tuesday, 2-3:30pm ET at the NAMI-NYC office. Check the link above for more information. ⬆️

If you have any questions, feel free to comment below!

#Parenting #GeneralParenting #Caregiving #BipolarDepression #BipolarDisorder #PTSD #ComplexPosttraumaticStressDisorder #Schizophrenia #ADHD #ChronicIllness #SchizoaffectiveDisorder #BorderlinePersonalityDisorder #Anxiety #ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder #Depression #MentalHealth #Selfcare #EatingDisorders #CheckInWithMe #CheerMeOn