As many of you know, for most of my life I've struggled with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. (If it wasn't for those things I probably would have never pursued music). These mental illnesses led me down a terrifying path of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and negative-self image for many years. Thankfully, I finally accepted help and for the first time in a long time I actually feel happy and in-control of... me.
For many others that suffer from mental illness, it may be difficult to confide in someone, or find the appropriate help. Everyone is different, and while one of the first things people usually recommend is seeing a therapist, talking with a stranger about your problems sometimes doesn't help. I was lucky enough to finally find a medical doctor (after a lot of searching) with whom I could connect with on a personal level - who not only treats me as a friend, but is able to provide me with medical advice that is applicable to my brain chemistry and situation.
While on Facebook the other day, I came across this article which lists eighty-one free resources that those struggling with mental illness, addiction, grief, anxiety, PTSD, or other problems, can look into for help. Many of them are apps that can be downloaded via your smart device. Others are website forums. Others are many different centers you are able to call and talk with about what you are going through. Check it out here: http://greatist.com/grow/resources-when-you-can-not-afford-therapy.
There is something for just about everyone here; an app to help tolerate negative thoughts, an app to help free one from obsessive thoughts, breathing therapy, a daily mood and thought diary, depression self-help guide, mood-trackers, PTSD coach, help to quit smoking, anxiety monitor, an app with tips to manage alcohol sobriety, a center for complicated grief, connection to a LGBT center, Borderline Personality disorder help, live-time online chat to help empower those feeling despair, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder help, a center for victims of crime, an eating disorder association, help with those involved with stalking, suicide help, disaster distress hotline, center for those that are bullied, those that pull hair. the Domestic Violence Hotline, the Sexual Assault Hotline, Gambling/Drug/Sex/Over Eating Addiction Support Groups, and there is also a link to a support group for those that have friends or family members that suffer from addiction.
While it's true that pain can make you stronger, it can also crush you. It will often take more than one time to find what is right for you. You may be someone that needs to only write in a journal, only medication, or only therapy, but if you're not finding relief you might need a mix of things. It took me nearly a year to feel better and though there are days I don't feel the best, the good days out-number the bad. It's worth trying to find help.
