Support

Sparing the personal details, it was a tiring day in our family Tuesday.  After a long work day, the last thing we wanted to do was drive through 400 traffic to an hour and a half support group in Dunwoody.  I've often thought that some of my favorite times in life are when I didn't want to do something but end up having fun when I least expect to.  While I wouldn't call a support group necessarily "fun", it was a powerful group and night.  

I'll share at random a few things I learned.  I'm sharing these things to encourage anyone who may be reading this who is in fear of going to a support group alone to hopefully push you in the direction of attending.  Whether it be AA, NA, Al-anon, divorce, grief, weight loss, etc., there is power in numbers of people who share your illness.  You are not alone.  


1.  It is empowering to help others with my experience.

2.  It is okay to ask for help.  

3.  I can cry and break down and not feel judged.  

4.  Reward system -  I showered today -- gold star!  I made a to do list - gold star!  Rewarding ourselves for the little things and big things in life.   

5.  Meds, Food, Spirituality, Sleep, Exercise - 5 important items to focus on.  

6.  Mood disorder caregivers need an outlet too.  

7.  Hedonic treadmill - yes, the term exists.  Google it.  

8.  Support from others is vital to wellness.  

9.  It is courageous to walk into a room of strangers.  

10.  DBSA is a nonjudgmental, supportive atmosphere which I am grateful my husband found.   Links are below for DBSA and for the Atlanta & Johns Creek chapters.  

Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance

Atlanta DBSA

DBSA Johns Creek