Highway Robbery

       MI effects so many people in so many different ways. For some it may cause the MI individual to seclude themselves. It may cause others to act irrationally or unsafe. Yet in others is may cause them to be out going and do something you would not normally do if you were stable.
       How MI effects the individual may be and often does effect those who are caring for them differently as well. Some care givers even begin to have issues themselves with anxiety and depression. We get so wrapped up in the person we love and care for that we allow things. hobbies and enjoyment to the wayside.
       When behaviors or emotional issues begin to effect one's ability to relax, it robs those individuals of some much needed coping skills. This does not only go for those who are MI but also for the caregivers. Even caregivers need a way to "blow off steam" or just chill every now and then, because we all know that there are days that you just don't have an extra minute to breathe.
       I know that for me, depression set's in very easily where I too struggle with Bipolar. When I first went on medication my hands would shake terribly. This interfered with my ability to draw at times thus taking away both a coping mechanism as well as a hobby of mine. I am blessed in the fact that my DD #2 also loves to draw and has a natural ability to boot. I am able to get back into something I have always enjoyed doing at the same time as showing her that this can be a positive coping mechanism for her.
       My love of drawing is not only something I enjoy doing but it is very good for the body and soul. My DD's and I will go to a place that we want to draw and sit for hours out in the fresh air to draw. After we are done we also have something we can look at and know that we have been  productive. Drawing also brings with it sometimes a much needed distraction from life in general. Everyone needs that from time to time.
       If you do not learn anything else from this post, please listen to this. Keep doing your hobby's and interests so that you do not get over whelmed by what goes on around you. Whether you have a loved one with MI or not, this is an important thing, even if it is only 30 minutes a day. Don't allow yourself to be a victim of highway robbery.
      

      Sometimes the end product is worth more then what you think it is. I have a hard time sometimes in taking my own advice. I have not seriously drawn in over 10 yrs because I was too wrapped up in caring for my children. I have decided to do it now and drag out the old drawing book. I am not only doing this for me but for my DD's as well, because when you do not take care of yourself, how can you care for another?