Brain on Fire: Building a Plan Before the Burn
I haven’t written a blog in a bit, partly because of the state of the world, and also because of the state of my head. I despise the idea of coming off like I know better than others. The truth is, I strongly believe anyone can offer wisdom. It’s easy to offer advice to others, but it’s always the hardest thing to practice what you preach.
Recently, I ran into a moment of being extremely disappointed with my brain and not proud of the behaviors that came with it. I know this is part of the human experience. We all make mistakes, and what matters is that we learn from them. I’d love to say it also matters that we never repeat those same mistakes again, but the truth is, I can’t guarantee that. I am human, and I am neurodivergent. At times my meds need to be tweaked for me to be a better version of myself, and often the warning signs show up as me acting a bit unlike my proudest self.
Moving forward, what I can offer—to myself and to others—are some tips for outlining a treatment plan before you actually need to seek treatment. We all know the worst thing is to be in crisis without a plan. Take these ideas and make them your own. Obviously, I am not your doctor, so always discuss things with your physician and support team about what is healthy and works for you. I’m not telling anyone what to do in a crisis, just offering an outline to help brainstorm your own interventions and coping skills, and something you can talk through with the people who support you.
Treatment Plan for When My Mental Health Slips
Symptom Tracking
It’s important to check in with your mood if you struggle with mental health. I used to keep a mood diary years ago, and now I’m realizing I should probably get back into that habit. I meet with my therapist and psychiatrist monthly, and that usually helps because I’m forced to reflect on how things are going.
Self-Care Tasks
Make a list of self-care practices that help you reset. For me, that looks like making art, taking a bath, walking in nature, writing poetry, or doing somatic dancing. Small things can really make a difference.
Do’s and Don’ts
Create a list of do’s and don’ts for when you’re not feeling like your best self. For instance, reaching out to toxic past relationships is a don’t for me—but whenever I’m not feeling my best, that urge seems to surface. Share your do’s and don’ts with someone you trust so they can help support you.
Support Systems
Make a list of people you can lean on in times of need. Be sure they are aware of it and comfortable being one of those supports in your life.
Medical Team
Always have a quick way to contact your medical team. Sometimes I forget that these people genuinely have my best interests at heart. Often, behaviors can be addressed early if they’re noticed and talked about right when they start.
Living with mental health issues can be annoyingly inconvenient and incredibly difficult at times. However, life is still worth living. Sometimes the mess just needs sorting through or a little rewiring.
You are not your emotions, and you are not just the chemicals in your brain. You are much more than that.
And it’s okay to ask for help.
Keep going.
