Tips to Find Relief When Suffering From Mental Disorders

Professional treatment can make a significant difference when it comes to mental health issues. Even if a disorder is generally considered a lifelong illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, for example, treatment can help you learn to reduce and manage the symptoms so that you can live life as fully as possible. Finding relief, however, often takes more than prayer. It also requires that you be proactive.

Find Support

Living in isolation makes it easier to internalize the negative messages that can worsen your symptoms. Support groups are an excellent way to connect with others dealing with similar situations or symptoms. It can be comforting to know that you’re not alone. There are many self-help groups available, with each focused on different aspects of mental health, such as depression, bipolar disorder, or autism. Christian support groups are an option, too, although it’s crucial that fellow members are supportive. If you feel judged or are made to feel bad about your condition or symptoms by group members, it’s time to find another group.

Support is not limited to support groups, although those are an excellent place to start if you have been isolated. Family support is also important. So, reach out to family and friends too. It is not uncommon to inadvertently push others away when you’re not feeling good about your life or if shame is casting a dark shadow over your self-esteem. Sometimes others don’t know what to say or how to be supportive but will gladly be there for you if you reach out first.

Educate Others

Family members and friends may have misperceptions about your disorder, leading to fear and stigma. Often these reactions come from a lack of information. Keeping the doors of communication open can help demystify a mental health issue and lessen the stigma as well. Help loved ones overcome their own fears by helping them understand your condition.

Act Positively

One of the most important ways to remove mental health issues is to respect and believe in yourself. Self-deprecating statements only bolster negative stereotypes about mental health and can also make others uncomfortable to be around you. When you act in a way that shows self-respect, others are more likely to show the same respect to you.

Seek Spiritual Guidance

A mental health professional can treat your mental health disorder, but that doesn’t mean you need to ignore your need for spiritual guidance and nurturing. Talk with a supportive spiritual counselor about your diagnosis. He or she will help you find ways to maintain or enhance your faith in God and strengthen your connection with other believers.

Pray Regularly

Prayer is a powerful way to relieve some of the anxieties you may be feeling about your mental health. Make time to talk regularly with God, so you can express your concerns while feeling His presence in your life. While God allows challenges in all our lives, He is always there beside you. Trust that He is listening and cares and will never abandon you.

Implement lifestyle changes

Making adjustments to your daily routine can have a big impact on creating and maintaining a positive mental state. Sleep problems are common in many mental health conditions, so talk with your mental health provider if you’re having trouble getting to or staying asleep. Regular exercise is also essential and has been shown to have many benefits – including improved sleep and mood and decreased anxiety and stress.

Looking for ways to reduce stress is important, but it’s also important to try to understand your reactions. Not sure if you are experiencing anxiety or panic attacks? Check out the infographic below for more information.

Infographic created by MD Infusions, a provider of ketamine treatment for mood disorders