Living with mental illness as a believer

Hi everyone,

I just joined SANE yesterday, and love the supportive nature of this space. Some of the topics I've looked at are really interesting, and the fact sheets are very handy.

I have both Bipolar type 1 and Borderline Personality Disorder, not to mention Complex PTSD. I've been hospitalised a few times for short & long periods, suffering from mania & psychosis. As many of you will understand, a psychotic break from reality during which you act completely out of character, and which you later have little or no memory of, is terrifying.

I'm getting increasingly better at regulating my emotions, curbing any impulsive behaviour, identifying my triggers and seeking help when I realise I'm on the verge of having a mental meltdown.

I've read many comments here about "tools" people use to deal with their particular mental ill health issues. I've accumulated many such tools since my 1st diagnosis.

But by far the greatest help to me has been my strong faith in God. When I am feeling particularly lonely (which is the norm for me ) I focus on the presence of God, and this changes my mindset to a more positive one: I may feel lonely, but I know I'm not alone. When my thoughts are racing and I can't calm down, reading the Bible always brings me comfort. When preoccupation with death dominates my thoughts, playing or singing favourite hymns help keep those thoughts at bay.

I'm wondering if there are any other people here who have a firm faith in God who find that He helps them navigate the unwanted roller-coaster ride that mental illness often is.

Thanks for reading this far ♡