by Keeshler Pittman

Created on: April 14, 2009   Last Updated: April 16, 2009

I personally could not have overcome the obstacles that I have overcome without faith in God. Also, I have a very supportive family. I have mental illness, and life is difficult for me sometimes. I can be impulsive at times. I have made many poor choices in life. However, I do believe that I can rectify many of my mistakes with continued faith and perseverance. A lot of our mistakes are do to our mindset. I personally have had some very negative perceptions.

Some obstacles that we face are not due to any of our faults. When such obstacles present themselves, we must pray and meditate. At the end of such obstacles, we usually learn something of value. We can learn how strong we truly are. We can learn what we truly value in life. We can learn how fragile humanity truly is. We can learn who our true friends are. We can learn how good God is.

I have been in and out of psychiatric hospitals for a few years. I have taken numerous drugs for my illness. I have had many labels given to me. I would just like to think I'm crazy. Anyway, after my first stay in the psychiatric ward in 1998, I realized the severity of mental health issues. I was admitted to another psychiatric hospital in early 1999. That same year, I gave birth to my daughter. I have probably been admitted to psychiatric hospitals at least 8 times since her birth. I have also been to jail because of anger issues.

My daughter has had to live with my family and her father's family at times. That has made me feel inadequate. She currently resides with me. By the grace of God, I am able to care for her. I am very honest with her about my issues. I am also honest with myself. For two years, I did not see a psychiatrist or take medication. I believe that set me back tremendously. I now know that in order to live a productive life, I must take care of my mental and physical health. I must also take care of my spiritual health.

Many of our challenges could be prevented if we used wisdom. When I did not know that I was mentally ill, I used drugs and alcohol to soothe me. This is known as self-medicating. I was very medicated. I completed AA/NA in 1998. Immediately thereafter, my illness became apparent. I thank God that my parents noticed my problem.

I have acquired a cosmetology license since my first diagnosis. I have been employed as a group home supervisor, a store manager, and a hairstylist. I plan to pursue a degree in business administration. I do not allow mental illness to cripple me. Some days are more difficult

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