Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Psyche.
Mentally Sensitive
I wish I could say there is a simple answer to mental illness. An answer that would make all the pain, depression, mania, euphoria, loss, bad decisions, regret, positive/negative symptoms associated with it and take it away. But there isn’t. Although if I could tell you one thing or perhaps just one word that may sound so cliche but in fact for me worked it would be, try.
By David laker8 years ago in Psyche
How Mental Illness Affects Your Life
I remember the days when I was just a little kid in elementary school who was always happy, having fun and carefree with no worries. I sure miss those days and I know I’m not the only one! As I got older, life became harder. And when I say “life became harder,” I don’t just mean because of the normal stuff us adults go through in life, such as paying bills, paying rent, going to work everyday or even finding a job and being financially stable. Anyone else out there who suffers from mental illness understands what I mean. I suffer from and have been diagnosed with depression, as well as bipolar disorder and anxiety. Doing every day tasks that may seem normal and simple to do are harder for me, such as getting up in the morning to go to work or even getting up in general. I want you to read about my journey and understand how important mental health is.
By Selena savage8 years ago in Psyche
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year?
First of all, this time of year can be difficult to begin with. The days are short and dark. Snow, cold weather, lack of sunshine. I feel so utterly tired. I don't have the motivation to do much of anything. Most days you can find me lying under a blanket, wishing I could hibernate, much like bears do in the winter. Seasonal affective disorder is real, folks.
By Genevieve Mary Madison8 years ago in Psyche
7 Signs Your Loved One Has an Addiction
In the unfortunate even that you suspect your loved one is facing drug addiction, your mind goes a million miles an hour. But in the midst of all of it, how do you know for sure? One surefire way is to get them to take a drug test, but approaching them out of nowhere to have them do that is a way to cause issues between the two of you. So, what do you need to look for?
By Savana Verret8 years ago in Psyche
Polar Bears
A few years ago, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and a severe anxiety disorder. When I initially got the news, I was in disbelief and denied everything. I had never noticed there really was anything wrong with me. I didn't spend money, like a rockstar, that I don’t have, I didn't have delusions or mood swings, and I handled myself well around people. I’ve worked since I was sixteen-years-old, went to college and made the dean's list and landed a really great job in a career I love: mental health and addictions. It seemed a natural choice, because I grew up watching people drink and use drugs daily, including my mother. I have a knack for working with people who experience mental health issues and issues with addiction, so that’s where I gravitated. I have complications with addiction myself and have worked very, very hard to get where I am.
By Leah Burton8 years ago in Psyche
6 Reasons Why Mental Health Is a Priority Around the Holidays
Mental health is something many people shy away from acknowledging and even sharing its influence. Adding Christmas, a time of giving and spending time with loved ones while laughter should be filling the air, to a mental health sufferer causes more Scrooges than Rocking Around the Christmas Tree and more stigmas.
By Mario Castelli8 years ago in Psyche
Hopelessness vs. Suicide – What’s the Difference?
In my work as a therapist, some people feel the need to say, “I’m not suicidal. I just didn’t have a purpose to live.” Another statement I hear is, “I’m not sure why I’m still here. Don’t worry I’m not suicidal, I’m just having a hard time finding my way in life.” Even though people are seeking mental health services and are cooperative, there is a fear or hesitation of being seen as suicidal. It might be the fear that they are crazy and have to go to a hospital for weeks and be away from their lives. It could be the fear that their employer can find out and use it against them at work. The fear is real since the labels of crazy or insane are negative ones. Our society also has a long way to go in providing the necessary support, acceptance, and services for those with mental illness.
By Eva Gordon8 years ago in Psyche
Frustrations
I like to think I am a laid-back, carefree girl. This is not true. Not. At. All. I have many irritations throughout the day: Being startled awake by knocking at my door; repetition of my alarm; slow people on the road; rude people in general; disrespect to anyone's personal life; constant swearing; disrespect to anyone's religion; singing words wrong. I could make a whole list of the little pet peeves and irritations I have during the day. Everyone has things that annoy them of course, but it's important to not let these things stop us from living our life. If we are too focused on the things that limit us, we will never be able to live up to our full potential. So the solution? Think of all the wonderful things that are in this world. Can't think of any? I'll give you a list.
By Emily Wright8 years ago in Psyche
When Homelessness Gives Hope
Once upon a time, giving money to strangers was a rarity for me. I preferred to donate to charities that I had screened so I knew the money wasn’t going for a nefarious purpose. So the night my friends and I decided to go shopping downtown, I never expected to part with a cent that wasn’t for a Christmas gift.
By Rachel Carrington8 years ago in Psyche
