It's been years since I was diagnosed with schizophrenia. After many years, I finally have my life back in order. But, it took some time. I didn't count on how long it was going to take me. It was frustrating at first. I realized that the slower you go, the fuller your recovery. Denial was the first thing that hit me. It took a long time to get out of that stage. But, the trip was definitely interesting. I'm not the same person that I've started out with before the illness took over. I've grown and matured. Maybe that's why I don't mind the illness so much these days.
Schizophrenia is more than just an inconvenience. It completely changed the way that I was going to have to live life. I have had to pick jobs with lowered stress levels. I watch how many hours of sleep I get. My physical well being is closely linked with my mental state. So, no stress and the body must be taken care of well.
Definitely the quality of my life has improved since the illness first struck. But, not without a lot of commitment to getting better. With those of you still struggling with the beginning stages, I'm letting you know now that it is possible to get out and live life. You might think you've gone to hell and back several times and there is no hope. But, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. You can live a life that you want. It's just that you'll have to work harder than most people to get it. Thinking rationally became an extra step for me. Most folks can do it without trying. But, training your mind to follow logic is something that I've had to do. After a while, I got used to it.
