We had our 'Bring and Share' event tonight and as well as eating too much chocolate (again) I've come away feeling really inspired. We talked about all the skills, experience and knowledge that we've gained by either coping with having a mental illness, or though caring for a loved one who has been very ill. You can see all the ideas we jotted down from the discussion - from coming to understand your limitations (and that these can change), to developing patience, coping strategies and learning how to think positively. We understand how mental health services work and different illnesses themselves. It struck me, particularly from the people in the room who themselves have to deal with what can be devastating mental illnesses, that we're a pretty skilled bunch of people. For some, mental illness forces a process of self examination - and eventually self awareness - that is painful but hugely illuminating. It's a process that many of us won't have to go through and we'll be less wise for it. So, hats off to those of you who have a mental illness and work through it the best you can.
We think we've got something powerful here. If we'd known these things 10, 15, 20 years ago then where would we be now? The plan is to pull all our experiences together into a document that we can share with others across Greater Manchester. So, we'd love to hear about your experiences. If you'd like to share what you've learnt through experiencing mental illness, through caring for someone or through your professional work then we'd love to hear from you. There are two ways you can do this:
1. Add your comments below using the comment function, or
2. Email 'What I know now' to maryrayner@hotmail.com. We won't share your name with anyone unless you say we can.
Comments
Since then, I'm continually discovering those who can help and give me the expert advice I frequently need. These people are often those who have suffered the anguish of mental illness and share with me their experiences. The hope and insight they give me is priceless.