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