Have you ever known you needed something, but could not really identify what it was that you were in need of? I have, especially lately. I have felt so agitated, and out of sorts that I knew there was something I needed, but I could not figure out what it was.
Yesterday, it hit me like a ton of bricks – I needed real life, face to face time with people who understood me. After only a few phone calls, I had a line on a Depression Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) meeting that was taking place that night. The most exciting part for me was that this meeting was for women only – a setting I am more comfortable with.
The women were awesome. They let me ramble on for most of the meeting. I was able to cry, and LAUGH – venting my frustrations and sorrow. It definitely provided me with the in person contact that I so desperately needed.
There were women there who have been living with their mental health issues for many more years than I have. They shared a great deal of wisdom – that they had gained from their own life experiences – with me. They told me what I am feeling right now is normal. I left that meeting feeling better than I have in days.
I will go again. It feels so good to have been able to key in on a valuable mental health resource.
Awesome – glad you found a place that works for you! What kind of activities does the DBSA do? Is it a traditional talk meeting or more of a social group with shared issues?
I honestly do not know what type of Activities DBSA does as a whole. I do know they are having a convention in Florida in May. I only know that because an internet friend of mine is doing a stand up comic routine there.
My experience last night was that it was both a traditional talk meeting, and a social group with shared issues. I hope that makes sense. There was some structure, however, at the same time several women share their own experiences as a way to show me what they did to get through something similar, as well as showing me what things were not successful for them.
The combination is something I am familiar with from the group I regularly attend, making it very easy for me to relax, and feel as if I was in the right place.