Columns

If you have a severe mental disability and you are reading these words, I owe you the following word: "Congratulations!" If gyou've made it this far, it is likely that you are one of the strong and the few mental health consumers who can weather the severe conditions that our country and our Earth have been enduring. 

It is a tremendous challenge to continue to track reality when reality has gone haywire. Psychosis is characterized by splitting off from reality. Trump followers can fit this qualification, not because of their psychotic disorder, but because they are collectively bamboozled by the pathological liar, who, at the time you are reading these words, has been ejected from office through impeachment, or will (more than likely) be in office but will be out of office within two more days. 

Certainly, an attempt at impeachment is a valiant thing to do. But to get both houses of Congress to agree on anything is a near impossibility. So, if Trump is impeached by now, it is a miracle. But I'm getting off track... 

Mental health consumers need to know that our country is in good, capable hands. Thousands of dedicated persons in government are making certain that our people and institutions will survive the attacks of this demented and evil leader. We, as mental health consumers, are not required to do anything--we should leave this up to others. The best thing we can do for our country and our people is to stay out of the way, and to stay out of harm's way. 

The above entails turning off the news when it is too upsetting. It involves keeping current on our medications and therapy. It involves getting adequate sleep. And it involves reassuring oneself and getting reassurance from others that everything will turn out just fine. And let's not forget the oral hygiene--dental decay does not wait for changes in government. 

In my column I hope that I'm creating a good example. Examples are the most effective way to impart something, good or bad. When things are too difficult, my habit is to back off. When someone asks me to do something I can't reasonably do, I refuse, even when doing this is unpopular. Taking care of yourself sometimes involves saying no to unreasonable requests and/or demands. I'm sorry if this paragraph leads to unanswered questions. 

I will say that, if you've made it this far and if your mind is in good condition, it is a signal that you've done something right. It is not a signal that you are no longer mentally ill. If taking medication and participating in treatment have led to you being able to weather this insanity, keep it up. If you've gotten through this and if you are not compliant, it may be a good time to get yourself checked out under the hood, so that you can be certain that you are not headed for a relapse due to a delayed stress reaction. 

At age nineteen, I was threatened by armed robbers when I was otherwise alone, overnight, for ten hours, when I worked at the job I had at the time. These robbers meant business and they had weapons. I believed after surviving this that I no longer needed to keep the spare bottle of medication I kept. I was very wrong. I had a delayed stress reaction that affected my mental health for years to come. 

For people with schizophrenia, medication is essential. It is almost a defining factor in your diagnosis. If the medication is working to restore you to reality, it indicates that you probably have this condition. And you should realize there is no shame in this. 

It is hard to track reality when reality has gone insane. If you can do that, you should be proud of yourself. 

Additional note: If you live in the Concord/Martinez/Pleasant Hill area, the Putnam Clubhouse is a great resource and source of support. They are functioning virtually, but in that manner, they are up and running. Staff is friendly, helpful, and flexible. If you live elsewhere, check local listings for resources.