Quote:
Originally Posted by scaredandconfused
Thank you for posting this.  How we define "success" is definitely unique to each individual. Comparing ourselves to others generally does us no good.
Years ago (before being severely affected by mental illness) I would have looked at my current situation and seen it as a failure. Today, however, I see it as a success because of my struggles. I may not be working full-time, but I do what I am able to and that's what matters. |
You are right about how we should define success. Our ability to function and cope changes with the cycle of our illness, the length and severity of episodes, age, circumstances, physical health, etc.
I had a breakdown in 2014, quit teaching, lost my health insurance, and had no medication all of 2015. After almost 2 years of depression, then rapid cycling and horrible mixed episodes, I felt like my brain was broken. Recovery has been a process. There has been progress and there have been setbacks. DBT classes and Mindfullness training has been helpful.