Your doctor may not be able to officially diagnose you. She may want to send you to a specialist who can do a more thorough examination (interview, questionnaires).
When starting new a medication, check in with your doctor regularly to discuss your progress and any side effects. It may take a long time and several different tries at various medications to find one that works best for you.
Set up intake appointments with several different therapists. Choose the one who works best with you.
If you are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, tell your support person. She can help you figure out what to do next or help calm you down.
By reaching out to others in similar situations, you can exchange stories and tips.
When you have a bad day (or days, or week, or weeks), recognize that it’s temporary. You’re still in recovery, after all!
A five-minute walk around the block is better than no walking at all. Take baby steps as needed. Even small things, such as standing at work instead of sitting, can help you be more active. Eat three meals per day, even if you don’t feel hungry. Mental illness can disrupt appetite. No matter what your weight is or what your stomach says, you need to eat.
Consider throwing on your favorite shirt, a comfy pair of pants, or a beloved accessory to make you smile. Try giving yourself a spa day on the weekends. If you are too tired to prepare food, clean, etc. consider asking loved ones to help you.
Meditation Guided imagery EMDR eye movements Engaging the senses Mindfulness Write a Mental Health Treatment Plan Deep breathing
Artistic expression may be a great way to connect with others who have lived through hardship, inspire happiness in people, or find hope for yourself.
