As a lot of my readers would be aware I have been battling mental health issues since I was first diagnosed at the age of 25. As The Eagles sung Welcome To The Hotel California. Once you receive a diagnosis of mental health issues, particularly schizophrenia you become locked in a system that will mean because of the stigma you are caught up in a system of stigma that you will need to fight for as long as you live. As The Eagles sung in Hotel California You Can Check Out Anytime You Like, But You Can Never Leave. Learning to live with stigma takes time, empathy, compassion, knowledge and resilience. You learn that medication helps the symptoms but nothing prepares you for the stigma, even from those whose job it is to support you. I became a support worker to help people who had similar experiences to me. It was both rewarding and draining at the same time. I know I helped and cared for many on my journey, but even to this very day I battle with the stigma of my diagnosis.
I am in the process of hopefully moving into social housing built for people in my situation and up to yesterday it was a process I thought would have a bright, positive outcome for me. I have been going through a lot of red tape and jumping through all sorts of hoops, with the end goal of a peaceful existence at The Haven. Unfortunately the decision isn’t mine, and even isn’t Mind’s. It is all decided by some bureaucrats interpreting legislation and deciding if we meet the legislation in the most minute detail, and because of a lack of knowledge, empathy and compassion my dream of a peaceful, supportive and therapeutic environment has been judged and now I find myself having to gather my resources be strong and resilient not only for myself but for those who are going through the same process in the future. I am vulnerable but I am strong and resilient and will fight this with all my might.
Please count your blessings and i will keep you posted on this journey circumstances have brought my way.
Kaye's Life and other gems 