Living with mental illness as a believer

[JLucy]

Hi everyone,

I just joined SANE yesterday, and love the supportive nature of this space.  Some of the topics I've looked at are really interesting, and the fact sheets are very handy.

I have both Bipolar type 1 and Borderline Personality Disorder, not to mention Complex PTSD. I've been hospitalised a few times for short & long periods, suffering from mania & psychosis.  As many of you will understand, a psychotic break from reality during which you act completely out of character, and which you later have little or no memory of, is terrifying.

I'm getting increasingly better at regulating my emotions, curbing any impulsive behaviour, identifying my triggers and seeking help when I realise I'm on the verge of having a mental meltdown.

I've read many comments here about "tools" people use to deal with their particular mental ill health issues.  I've accumulated many such tools since my 1st diagnosis.

But by far the greatest help to me has been my strong faith in God. When I am feeling particularly lonely (which is the norm for me ) I focus on the presence of God, and this changes my mindset to a more positive one: I may feel lonely, but I know I'm not alone. When my thoughts are racing and I can't calm down, reading the Bible always brings me comfort. When preoccupation with death dominates my thoughts, playing or singing favourite hymns help keep those thoughts at bay.

I'm wondering if there are any other people here who have a firm faith in God who find that He helps them navigate the unwanted roller-coaster ride that mental illness often is.

Thanks for reading this far ♡

[Snowie]

Hi @JLucy 

Welcome to the Sane forums. I do hope you find them to be a supportive place for you.

Whilst I have no belief, I am glad you have found that support you deserve. If it helps you to manage your mental health then that makes it so worth it.

I hope you continue to have those beliefs and support.

Take care

Snowie xoxo 

[hanami]

Hi there @JLucy 

Welcome, it's so nice to have you here. There is actually a dedicated space for those who've found religion has helped them here https://saneforums.org/t5/Social-Spaces/Christian-Chat/td-p/388793/page/331 . It's a Christian space and I'm assuming from what you wrote you are Christian but do correct me if I am wrong!

Look forward to seeing you around

Hanami

[JLucy]

Thanks @hanami , that's helpful to know!

[JLucy]

@Snowie

Thank you 😊

[Elle5]

So good to come across your post. I suffer with severe depression and low mood anxiety and BPD. I am a believer but only for around 6 months so I am finding it quite difficult to focus on all things God when I’ve suffered so much longer. Basically I am finding it difficult to focus on my faith when I feel so overwhelmed with mental health issues.