SelfhelpMagazine Blog

In the SHM Community Forums, Jimmy shared his SURVIVAL GUIDE for adulthood for when the going gets tough. He said:

JG,

I give you credit for making the decision to post here.

When life is so overwhelming that you can't attend a support group meeting or revival without doubting yourself, it is time to be sure you are plugged into a therapist and physician that you like and respect, and that you see both regularly, whether you like seeing them or not.

The alternative is too worrisome to even consider. Please tell me that you are seeing both types of professionals now, and if you've already posted this information here, forgive my forgetting. Like you said, it's been awhile, so I am not remembering.

But I care and I hope you write back soon. And if you are taking any medications, or suppose to be and aren't, please let me know that, too. It will help me understand you better when I respond to you again.

Here are some things that I've adopted them as my SURVIVAL GUIDE for adulthood, for when the going gets really rough:

• • Take one day at a time.
  • Treat myself to things I enjoy and are healthy for me, as much as I can.
  • Walk every day for at least an hour.
  • Shower every day, no matter what.
  • Eat healthy food – hold back on the chemicals. They just mess me up worse.
  • No alcohol.
  • No caffeine or stimulants other than anti-depressants or other prescribed meds or vitamin products. I let a trusted doctor make those medical decisions for me because when I get into a bad place, I make ridiculous decisions about what's good for me. Then I follow their directions.
  • No hanging out with people who put me down. I only have contact with people who help build me up.
  • No watching dramas, murders, scary or bummer movies. That includes no artsy or European films. I only watch comedies. Period. Comedies.
  • Get up every day at a specific time, no matter what.
  • If I can't wake up when I get up, I go outside and walk until my vision clears and I can begin smelling things again.

This helps me with my self-esteem , my relationships and many of the factors included are things I learned in the 12 Steps of AA, but which I have adapted over time. I don't now if my list will help you, but I offer it with an open heart.