No one wants to think about the possibility of a crisis, but they happen to everyone, especially if you have a mental illness. So how can we prepare for crisis and create a plan that will lead back toward stability?
Today we’re going to talk about coping with mental illness in your family by preparing for crisis.
I’m Angela Howard, my passion is to break the stigma of mental illness among fellow Christians. I’m here to help you live a more purposeful life with God, and with one another. Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel so you can get the first updates of new content.
One of the most frustrating aspects of mental illness, for the person suffering and their loved ones, is the sense of powerlessness. Creating an action plan for a time of crisis is one way you can bond together as a team and live a full life, even as you face these very real health struggles.
Creating a Crisis Plan
- Gather contact info: For your family and your loved ones therapist, psychiatrist, other healthcare providers, and local crisis line.
- Make a list of your loved ones medication and diagnosis: Keep these on hand in your wallet.
- Identify your community support: Your pastor or small group leader, your friends and family members.
- Identify your triggers: Maybe you struggle every year during the fall and winter, or the holiday season sets you off. It could be as simple as a lack of sleep or traveling that sends you into a spiral. The benefit of knowing your triggers is that you can create a plan that leads you back to balance.
- Remember what’s helped before: In the middle of crisis, where have you found even the smallest bit of help?
My husband said that his biggest help in the middle of crisis is to remember that even when he can’t see things clearly, he can trust my judgment.
He also finds it helpful to separate himself from the source of immediate stress so that he can get a mental break and some perspective.
Scripture:
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed. Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)
Don’t go it alone! Reach out for help and don’t isolate yourself.
Question:
What are your best tips in preparing for crisis? I’d love to hear from you today, comment below.
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