Autism in the Family

This is more for bipolar and depressed people but most people on the the autistic spectrum are dealing with the mental health system also so it is also very applicable.  I was first diagnosed bipolar in 1996 and have been dealing with the mental health system since then and diagnosing my son since 1993.  Much too long to be in the system.

Always Take Meds As Prescribed -- It us always tempting to meddle with your meds because we all feel like "guinea pigs" with our doctors changing meds all the time.  However antidepressants take 6 weeks before the full effects are felt and it takes awhile before our body will adjust to the full effects of all psych meds.  So you have to give the meds and your doctor a chance.

Don't Should On Yourself -- This is important to your self-esteem.  If you don't meet a lot of expectations you say I should have done that and you are disappointed.  Well don't Should on yourself.  The only thing you have to do is get up and go to the washroom and that's because you don't want to change the sheets.  Even that is a choice.  Everything else is gravy. 

Yes You Can Change Support People -- This includes your psychiatrist, therapist and your family doctor.  I know in this age of limited medical personnel that this can be difficult but if there is a will there's a way.  You are the consumer, your mental health team should be working as a team with you involved in the decisions and not them telling you what is best.  Although you are new to the game, they should be giving you information so that you can make an informed decision.  There is enough information on the internet and other places that you should be able to find it for yourself, or with the help of others.

Good Mental Health is More Than Prescription Drugs it is a Whole New Lifestyle -- Sure some people have to take prescription drugs for the rest of their life but so do a lot of people who have chronic illnesses.  You should also be getting enough sleep and if you need to work in a nap during the day don't be ashamed of it lots of Europeans have been doing it for years.  Get plenty of exercise and start eating right, lots of fruit and vegetables.  Lots of doctors will try to tell you to cut out coffee but if it is the only thing keeping you awake for the little bit of time you can, well don't worry about it.  You have probably given up lots already.  Just try to keep it down.

No Alcohol, or Illegal Drugs When Taking Prescription Drugs or the Big No-No --  A lot of people will think that they can drink just a little bit or have just the odd joint when taking prescription drugs but this is not the case.  This will set your treatment back quite awhile.  Your might just as well not be taking any of your meds, or you might die if you drink too much  or take too many drugs.  I know sometimes all of us want to die and it seems like an easy way.  So instead of getting high or wasted, go to a support group or out to coffee.