The tenth and final theme from the 80/20 DVD I would like to comment on is the importance of being grateful to your caregivers.

As we are consumed by our illness, and all the ways that it has altered our reality and our abilities, it can be very easy to forget how our illness affects those around us and how much we need their help. We simply could not recover without our caregivers, and my belief is that we should be openly and consistently grateful.

Let’s consider this question: who faces the more challenging reality, the mental illness sufferer or the spouse, family member or loved one who tries to offer support each day, all the while overcoming feelings of helplessness and fear?

In my opinion, the answer is that our caregivers face the larger challenge, for the simple reason that they are not forced to face the reality of mental illness. We must deal with the symptoms of our illness – they are there, a part of us – however our caregivers remain and help us by choice, out of love and concern. Theirs is a difficult path, and their choice is incredibly generous.

Of course, some are unable to do so and withdraw. Most caregivers, however, rise admirably to the challenge and learn what is needed of them – and then offer it every day, month and year to the best of their abilities. And I am eternally grateful to every single caregiver in my life for all they have given, and all they continue to offer me.

Be well,
Jason Finucan

The ninth 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is how you can ‘own your own illness’. This is a theme that I frequently discuss during my talks to promote mental health awareness and break down stigma. If there is one aspect of how we respond to our mental illness that is truly an anchor for all other factors and choices that could lead to our success, it is this.

In my experience, every single person who has managed to recover and live well, despite their continued struggle with mental illness, has accepted their situation and taken responsibility for their wellness. They own their illness; it doesn’t own them. They see that they must lead the effort towards their own recovery while those around them can offer support, reassurance and help during the difficult days.

Owning your illness is by no means an easy reality. I struggled for nearly 2 full years before I would even accept my illness for what it was, let alone take ownership of it. However, I can’t help but notice that during those years of denial I was barely treading water and, ultimately, my condition worsened. And yet, after a week-long manic episode, I was faced with the cold loneliness of the inside of a lock-down ward in a mental hospital and the absolute fear in the faces of my loved ones as they wondered what I might do next. That was when I finally accepted that I had an illness, and it was called Bipolar Disorder.

I began to research my illness, the possible treatments and the lifestyle changes that I could effect. I began not only to accept my illness, but also to become an expert on it. I began to own it. And, for me, it was clearly the right path – within 6 months I stabilized and this June, 2009, I will be celebrating 4 years of wellness and recovery.

Be well,
Jason Finucan

The eighth 80/20 theme I would like to comment on is how managing your stress levels can prevent instability in your life and, therefore, prevent a potential relapse. This key subject touches on a truly vital aspect of any individual’s path to sustained wellness.

Many mental illnesses, including my bipolar disorder, require some form of medical treatment in order to stabilize. However, as Mike stresses in his 80/20 DVD title, medication may be an important tool to reduce the symptoms of depression, bipolar or any other mental illness but it alone cannot keep us well. How we live every day, how we treat our bodies and minds, paints the rest of the picture.

By finding ways to regulate your sleep – probably the single most important factor in your wellness – you will greatly reduce the chances of a relapse. In addition, reducing the stress that you face each day, while learning to cope with the stress that exists in your life, will have a significant positive impact on your wellness. Other life skills include eating well, exercising, pursuing activities that satisfy and stimulate you as well as moderating your work load and many more.

When combined with medication, all of these life skills will help to create stability, happiness and peace in your life. I completely agree with Mike that relapse is far less likely for a person who is stable, happy and peaceful.

Be well,
Jason Finucan