Great thread KD.
I have my own struggles which resulted in 4 hospitalisations in past 16 months. My most recent stay was this Summer and was in for nearly 10 weeks.
It's grand to say ask for help but as in my own personal experience, if you have certain diagnosis say Borderline Personality Disorder. It is hard to tell professionals how bad you are feeling and what you plan on doing to hurt yourself etc. ..then to be dismissed.
I also have clinical depression and to distract myself from the constant flow of thoughts that keep telling me I am worthless, I do so much to fill my time .
Thing is, even when things appear to be going so well, I have constant suicidal thoughts/plans.
I have been told it will take 3-4 years of schema for things to change. I am on a waiting list for this.
Sometimes, you can do the whole exercise,medication, mindfulness route but it won't make a major change. The past 2 years have been hellish .
Mental illness has destroyed my intimate relationship, damaged relationship with my children and my faith in professionals (due to certain experiences)
I get through my life with a mask, convincing people that everything is okay when in reality things seem to be crumbling. I am attending therapy and seeing psychiatrist.
I admire people who have crawled out of the abyss and can function without mental illness taking over.
Sometimes, the road to managing your issues is a lot longer for some an living hour by hour may be the only thing you can do.
