The Long and Winding Road

Sometimes I feel that Beatles song describes what I have been on for the last twenty years,  a long and winding road.  I often tell others that living with bi-polar is like being on a roller coaster you cannot get off.  A coaster goes up, down, upside down, in circles and levels out on occasion.  That is the best way I could describe what I have lived through.

I checked out a cool website the other day.  It is www.mindcheck.ca.  It was started in part by Kevin Bieksa of the Canucks to get the discussion going regarding mental health.  Kevin lost his good friend,  Rick Rypien, to suicide. From what I have heard about Rick,  he was of great character and always putting others first.  I think this website is a great tool for those looking for help or people looking to find out more about mental illness. There is also the opportunity to take a pledge for mental health,  you should really give it a look.

Tomorrow,  I am working again which made my mind kind wander a bit.  I cried a little but really do feel better than on Monday.  I already have one successful day in the books so it will definitely be a little easier tomorrow.  I start full time next week which I am actually looking forward too.  Having the winter off was great but,  having more of a routine will be good for me. I am going to try to break the day in to sections.  Not looking at finishing the day,  just finishing the first two hours.  Then finishing to lunch and so on.  I think if I can challenge myself to do this every day,  I will be more successful.

I heard The Longest Time by Billy Joel sung on American Idol.  It was on when I came back from a milk run and really perked me up.  It is one of favorite songs of all time and you cannot help feeling good when you hear it.

I am heading to bed now,  early wake up call in the morning.  I take risperidone (not sure of spelling)  at night which really helps me sleep.  I used to have trouble at night because my mind would race relentlessly and restless nights would follow.  The meds help slow the thought process down and I normally sleep like a baby now.

Hope this finds you in good spirits.

Take care, Shawn.