We’re Never Going to Forget This So Stay Present
This is a monumental time in the history of the world; we’re never going to forget this. While it can be overwhelming, recently I’ve been trying to be more present to what’s happening and how I’m feeling so that I can be more present with them and mark this time together.
We are Strong and Adaptable
People are strong; we are adaptable. This crisis will not last forever and we will get through this. We humans will adjust to the new normal of what comes afterward and find happiness there as we always do.
Interview With Our Founder on Mental Health and Covid-19
From recognizing and validating emotions to finding time for vigorous exercise, Katherine Switz shares what has worked for her and many Stability Leaders to manage mental health during this difficult time.
Managing Uncertainty
For those of you who are struggling now, acknowledging that this is an irregular time… Accept that the responses you’re having—increased anxiety, depression, whatever they are—are okay. There’s not a right, wrong, or illegitimate thing you can feel.
The Worst Is Just a New Beginning In Disguise
A diagnosis could, in fact, be the beginning of a more sustainable life. I, like hundreds of The Stability Network Leaders, are living proof that recovery is possible and that a diagnosis does not need to be an anvil that sinks the whole ship. Actually, it can be the thread that patches your sails so you can navigate new horizons.
Nurturing Your Mental Wellness
The vast majority of people who listen to my journey tell me I’m brave, and that my story has given them the courage to tell theirs. It never ceases to amaze me how many people have stories to tell. Be a storyteller. You have no idea whom or in what ways you will help. But you will.
The Truth Behind My Title
I hope we can shatter the belief that in order to be professionally successful, we need to hide or disguise our inner struggles and difficulties. I truly believe it is quite the opposite… our greatest challenges are often the key, and the door, to our greatest successes.
Cards of Hope
It’s a simple program, but rich and full in hope and meaning. It reduces the feeling of stigma. It says to patients, “you are not alone”. To feel cared about and supported can provide a huge boost when people are at their lows. And, in turn, they share their examples of fortitude and resilience.
From Shame to Advocacy
Mental health has been a source of shame, secrecy and isolation for too long. It’s time we start facing the real challenges people face and as a community, responding with hope, support, resources and respect. My recovery story is one of many, and I’m sharing it because of UCSF’s decision to shed some light on the topic and build community.
What We Can Learn From the Ali Shuffle
For many of us in The Stability Network, we lived our first decades in a certain way. Then the illness struck and our mental health diagnoses forced us to adapt and grow or decline. A significant part of that transformation meant learning how to identify our strengths and minimize our weaknesses.