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  1. J

    What small wins lately have helped you in feeling proud of yourself

    This past week I made an effort to create a "real meal" for myself, which had a great impact on my overall success. I was able to create consistency in my day by following a simple schedule; each time I followed my schedule I was able to accomplish something. When my mind started racing during...
  2. J

    A Story: “The Wrong Words”

    As I read through what you were told, I was filled with rage because there is simply no justification for inflicting such inhuman treatment upon others. Your ability to place faith in yourself and to identify those individuals willing to truly hear and support you demonstrated incredible...
  3. J

    Post-psychotic depression (PPD) and Negative Symptoms

    The same frustration exists for me, all my other research indicates that depression is treated as being a "moral" action rather than a legit neurological issue. I also recognize that the way these emotion-oriented studies have focused primarily on alleviating symptoms versus providing emotional...
  4. J

    How to handle paranoia or delusions when they start

    When I notice early signs that my thoughts are speeding up, I stop and calm myself down by using my breath and things that I trust to be true. I've created a brief note on my phone that lists the things that are real. I reach out to one of my close friends whenever the spikes occur. Using these...
  5. J

    Non-profits helping people with schizoaffective disorder

    As I've said before, I've used multiple sources to learn how to cope during difficult times. Specifically, I found it really beneficial to be part of programs that provided both frequent opportunities for individuals to chat and easy access to resources regarding effective coping skills...
  6. J

    Peer support groups online and offline

    I have several different peer groups that really help me to be myself. I feel comfortable speaking out when I’m with them and really appreciate being able to learn reasonable, practical and proven healthy coping strategies from others. I also use online services if I want privacy and in-person...
  7. J

    Books written by people with schizoaffective disorder

    A couple of memoirs I read have actually made me feel more connected to other people, even if it's through what they have written down. The authors are honest and forthcoming about their symptoms and the challenges they face in their everyday lives. I feel like some of the things they've written...
  8. J

    What therapies do you find most helpful?

    In my opinion, therapy is just as rewarding. I find that taking medications combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has allowed me to address triggers while remaining calm. I enjoy working with therapists who account for both trauma and psychosis, because surface-level interventions generally...
  9. J

    Awareness campaigns promoting understanding and reducing stigma

    I have participated in some campaigns to raise awareness. I find that real-life stories took precedence and were the most effective at creating understanding, and decreasing fear. Some of the campaigns were too vague, it was frustrating to see that happen. The power of having accurate...
  10. J

    Mental health workshops and skill-building programs

    The workshops are extremely beneficial to me. The sense of support from learning along with other people is incredible. Learning breathing exercises and ground techniques were my biggest take-aways from these workshops. I found the simplest of tools helped ease the most difficult times I was having.
  11. J

    Movies or shows that misrepresent schizophrenia

    I often see shows overselling symptoms and this really frustrates and sometimes bothers me. They seem to emphasize extremes, while neglecting the everyday life aspect. I wish that they would include the calm stuff and different ways people deal with things, in addition to the real challenges...
  12. J

    Music resonating with mood swings

    Music plays an important role in my life. I often listen to soft instrumental music to help calm my mind when I'm feeling anxious and to boost my mood with energetic songs when my energy level is low. I’ve created a small playlist of songs that help me with my moods, these songs are like a reset...
  13. J

    Using journaling or creative writing for self-reflection

    Journaling daily helps me get my thoughts organized, and also notice when & how to make mood changes. Journals give me the opportunity for clarity. The writing of creative pieces allows me to safely express my feelings & it is also therapeutic during difficult times.
  14. J

    A day with schizoaffective disorder

    I can relate to this greatly. I start my day calmly and dedicate time to accomplish simple tasks before starting the more difficult challenges. Simple things like going for walks, listening to soothing music, journaling, and staying connected with my support network allow me to clear my mind and...
  15. J

    How to stay organized when motivation is low

    I approach low motivation by taking small steps. I begin with an easy task and create a short list. When I make progress, I reward myself with small treats. If I need help, I ask for it. These routines help me stay on track during hard times and make progress at a gradual pace.
  16. J

    How to explain schizoaffective disorder to friends or family

    My thoughts seem like waves. I talk about cloudy days when perception becomes distorted. I only speak when I am calm so people can better understand. I provide only enough detail to give context; therefore, I keep it light regarding my everyday challenges; thus, reduced stress.
  17. J

    Share which physical activities help with mood and psychosis

    Movement, even in small amounts, helps. When my head gets stressed, I lean toward gentle stretching. A short walk helps to clear my mind and helps to calm me down. Gentle yoga also steadies me. Even just a few minutes of moving my body helps change my day completely to refocus.
  18. J

    How Do You Build a Daily Routine That Actually Survives Mood Swings?

    I have been thinking about the importance of routines lately. Especially on days where the mood swings create an unstable feeling in all aspects of life from work, to school, home, etc. I often find that some mornings I feel ready to conquer the world and other mornings, even the act of brushing...
  19. J

    Share diet or lifestyle changes that make a difference

    I am also working on other small changes like regular meals, eliminating extra sugar, and drinking more water every day. I maintain a regular sleep schedule, and these things do help improve my mood and provide me with a little control over my life when it feels out of control.
  20. J

    Share achievements and strengths despite diagnosis

    I can relate to your words on many levels. I too notice daily small successes. I have a general routine that I follow, I seem to cope better with life's challenges and I am able to forgive myself when I make mistakes.
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