In similarity to my experiences while socializing, in school I have had great trouble paying attention to lectures. As is the case when I am interacting with people, my main strategy has been to try to develop a deep interest in what I am being taught. I also write extensive amounts of notes in order to keep me focused on what the professor is telling us. My reading speed is also a concern of mine. Unfortunately, I have not developed any very effective strategy to speed up my reading. I pay the price for a slow reading speed with hours upon hours of work. However, I always leave some time to see friends, since a lack of an adequate social life will surely wind me up in the hospital. What keeps me successful in school is mainly a love for academia, something that makes all the effort worth it.

I think every mentally ill individual has his or her own unique challenges and difficulties. I think every person needs to adapt to his or her own situation and figure out techniques for dealing with what they themselves must face. I hope you have appreciated this article as one mentally ill person’s account of his own personal struggles to lead a healthy, successful life.

Thank you.
Jason Settels