Mental illness is difficult to keep under control, but attitude and goal-setting play big roles. Learn more about the victories and setbacks associated with mental illness in this video with Robin Miller, MD.
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Hi, I'm Dr. Miller. Helping with major depression, bipolar disorder or any other mental illness is challenging. Here's some tip that can help you or a loved one manage day to day. First, let go of unrealistic expectations. This is especially important when symptoms flare up, and you don't feel like you can get off the couch.
There are days when small victories whether it's washing the dishes or getting the kids to school counts as a success. In fact, focusing on babies steps is another strategy that helps when you feel overwhelmed. Don't worry about doing everything, if cleaning the kitchen feels like too much, just wipe down the counters, that may be plenty. But taking one baby step like that may also inspire you to take another.
Finally, to find what success means to you, living with mental illness is hard and there will be times when just getting through the day is a victory, if that's the case, pat yourself on the back, give yourself credit and take the next small step.
I'm Dr. Miller. For more ways to boost your well-being, check out all our smart tips.
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