In my nursing class they said there are different stages to having a chronic illness, similar to how there’s stages of grief. First there’s denial, then anger, attempting to gain control, depression and then finally acceptance. First you don’t want to believe you are sick, then you’re angry about it and the situation, then you try desperately to fix it or make it go away, realize you can’t and become depressed but then eventually accept the situation and become resolved to deal with it as best you can. I think I’m in the depression phase right now. I’ve tried all the suggestions people make to improve mental health and I still struggle daily with my symptoms regardless. I am realizing there is no cure or simple fix and that I am going to start needing to rethink my future to accommodate my mental illness as I was making some unrealistic expectations for myself. It’s a sad and challenging process.
Yeah, @Anna, like I said in another thread, I’m finally realizing just how hard it is for you with your illness. But, you’re still here, so keep plugging on. You really are something else!
Hi @Anna
This is only unfortunate presumption. I have been depressed, on and off for a long time. I still deny it for the most part. Nothing will change, if I say - this is it and just live with it. You always have to fight for what you want in your life. Everyone has a challenge of some sort so ours is mental illness I guess. It is hell of a challenge but still worth the struggle to find the best solution. At least you have insight and you are aware… (I think) You need to keep trying to figure out what works for you.
Took me 7 years to just be more aware of my symptoms.
As for what stage, I feel I’m mostly recovered, btw!
I’m at stage 5, I skipped the first useless 4 stages. 
I switch between all of the phases depending on the day. Although I’m almost never angry about it.
I’ve come to accept I’m schizophrenic and have been labeled as clinically insane before. Sometimes I still get depressed about it. Nothing will heal or cure my schizophrenia. Medication seems to treat most of my symptoms. I think I’m on the road to recovery.
I’m at the kicking ass and chewing bubble gum stage.
