Should the Church Have Say in the Way in Which Its Members Tend to Their Health?

Amen...Amen...Amen, Amen Amen! I guess that's how the old hymn goes. I want to bring up a subject that may ruffle a few feathers, but its time to dust anyway! As many know---I was diagnosed as being bi-polar early in the new year. Now in the midst of all this, I talked my feelings over with my pastor. I was very upset with his responses to my anger, frustration and sudden onset of depression; from the bad news I received. We talked in great detail and we both argued the pros and cons of medicating.

THERE WAS NO ARGUMENT! I went home and thought that what my doctor stated was right! I wanted to take control of my health. THERE IS NO CURE FOR BI-POLAR DISORDER! So until one is found...I am going to continue taking the medicine prescribed. I don't want to place a whole lot of emphasis on the religion part, but here goes. Why would one not trust a individual that went through years of medical training and education to service the ill? I mean truth be told...GOD placed doctor's here on earth to help heal the masses. So here is my deal---I don't believe in prayer alone! I did not say that I don't believe in the BIG MAN, but you have to do more to help sustain your physical/mental health.

In the midst of you awaiting your 'faith healing' you take the medications that the physician has prescribed you. Take your medications daily, pray, exercise your mind, body and soul, and try to eliminate the stressors out of your life. It's very important that you listen to the doctor versus friends and families. Be encouraged and motivated byy family, not counseled; that's the doctors job. Don't be ashamed of what people have to say. You know what you have to do in order to preserve your mental/physical health, so do it!

I am a true witness, there was a time in my life to where my behavior was reckless and my moods were unpredictable. From one extreme to the next, my behaviorism changed for the worse. I tried (alone no doctor, no medicine) prayer. Then from there I went to trying to write all my jobs and duties down and seeking help from family. Well hell, all my symptoms took control and it was hard to sustain a normal life. I did the exercising and diet change and no progression. Here ARE MY guidelines to making sure you head in the right direction to sustaining your mental health.

Don't listen to family and friends- Many people run to their comfort zones, which is family. Family will be just afraid as you are and will try to deny (like you will) the fact that you have a severe issue. You just came from the doctor, so reference to the information sheet and pamphlets he/she gave to you. When people don't understand something, they shy away from it.

READ all you can about your illness- When you do this, it help you to understand why you do/did the things you are always on trial for it seems. This will give you comfort as well as hope in how to change your lifestyle.

Talk to people- Talk and gather in the comforts of others that share your illness. Visit the NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) support groups; in person or on-line chat rooms. EVERY state has several NAMI branches.There, at those meetings you will hear stories of individuals and their family members talk about how their loved one -as well as themselves- cope with a mental illness. This can also help you and your loved ones. Sometimes you learn about yourself from others.

Make sure you keep your spiritual connection- Nothing is wrong with church or having a relationship with a higher power. This is good for mental stimulation. Once you're spirit is revived, you will be charged to care for yourself in a ultimate manner as well asbe able to vision hope in a bright light!

Exercise and diet- Don't let people tell you any different. Certain foods provide extra protein as well as energy. Once you become fully engaged in what is good for you (with consideration to your medication) you will not what foods are good and bad for you. Exercise and diet alone wihout medication however, is not the avenue you need to jog down though.

Stay in the loop- Subscribe to a mental health community magazine. It does not matter which one, but this will help you stay current on drugs, therapy, procedures and medication re-calls. there are thousands of on-line communities where blogs are constant and medical professionals are at the head of some of the best mental health care blogs.

In the end...your mental/physical health is up to you. No one will be able to save you BUT you! Go with your heart as well as the facts.