I have a psychiatrist and therapist that work in the same office/clinic. They share notes. I have my program manager as I live in supportive housing. And I have this forum and also a group of several long distance friends who also deal with mental health issues, I chat with on Snapchat everyday in a group chat and video chat and paint with sometimes too. We actually all met here on the forum like 10 years ago and have been friends ever since. I used to have a case manager but I graduated from that program several years ago.

Those are my biggest supports. My family is basically non existant. My dad never was in my life. My mom died from cancer when I was 22 and the only family I have left I ever really talk to once in a blue moon is my older sister and she’s not super supportive. I’m not in a relationship and have no one else really.

Oh and I can’t forget I have my two cats that I love so much. They mean a lot to me. And the kitties I work with at my volunteer job I feel are a form of support too in a way. The people in my building are pretty supportive I have some nice neighbors.

For things that help me when I’m struggling: art (painting, drawing), music, especially playing violin. Good creative outlets. Also journaling. I picked up that habit back when I was a teenager and inpatient in a hospital and have never stopped journaling ever since and I’m 30 now. Exercise. Getting out and taking a walk outside or getting on the treadmill. But the best is getting outside cause it gets me in sunlight and able to kind of sort through my thoughts as I walk. Reading is another thing that helps keep my general stress levels down. Oh and meditation is helpful too.