Enjoy a Happy Life after Mental Illness Diagnosis

Fewer things in this life are worse than suffering from mental illness for a prolonged period, but you can enjoy a happy life after a mental illness diagnosis. In the blink of an eye, life can change and all of a sudden you’re not the person you once were. It’s been eight months exactly since I recovered from a serious episode of depression and anxiety and gained my life back (Recovering From Mental Illness: A Self-Help Guide). In this blog and video, I want to share how my life has improved and become rich again. (And I don't mean rich in the financial sense). I believe there’s no greater gift than giving back, so I hope my experience inspires you to realize that you can enjoy a happy life even after a mental illness diagnosis.

A Mental Illness Diagnosis – It Can Happen to Anybody

Many people believe that those who suffer a mental illness diagnosis must have had a difficult upbringing or be scarred from a traumatic event or circumstances. I used to believe people who took psychiatric medication for mental issues were crazy, which is why I was so hesitant to go on antidepressants initially. It terrified me that I could be crazy.

I had so much love growing up and I was bubbly and happy most of the time. Sure, I had some tough times and everyday problems, but nothing compared to others I know. Episodes of depression and anxiety can happen to even the happiest of people. I still don’t know how it came about, but I do know that it feels great to finally have my life back, and without that experience I wouldn’t be who I am today.

After a Mental Illness Diagnosis, I'm Enjoying a Happy Life

Everyone around me told me that I’d be stronger and a better person after recovering from mental illness. At the time, I was so stuck in my dark hole that there was nothing anyone could say to me about the future to help, because I saw no future. The only thing I wanted to know was that there was a chance this feeling would pass. It did, like my loved ones promised, and now my life is back on track and even better.

I no longer sweat the small stuff, I am more tolerant of others, I am more in touch with what I really want in this life (not what others expect from me) and I chose to do what makes me happy as opposed to trying to please others all the time. I’m able to share what I’ve been through with others all around the world with the help of social media, and if just one person relates to my story and feels better, then my job is done.

I am back to performing live again which is one of the things I love to do most. I am teaching music and sharing my gift with children. I am in a new fun and loving relationship, and my relationships with friends and family have never been better. I am motivated about life again and have so many things I want to accomplish. I'm now enjoying a tremendously happy life after a mental illness.

For those suffering – know that your suffering isn’t permanent. Hold on to that little bit of hope inside you because it’s worth sticking out the hard times. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, and it could be right around the corner.

You Will Find A Happy Life after Mental Illness Diagnosis Video

Find Kristen on Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and YouTube.