My name is Chato Stewart and I lived with Bipolar Disorder so when I write, understand I write from my own experience.
A Twisted Delusional Argument
During a mental health crisis I’m driven to a breaking point… and you snap! To put it bluntly, I just don’t care about anything or anyone at the height of crisis.
Sure a twisted argument “could” be made: that some people like me living with mental disorders or moods disorder believe without us around, our family is better off and will be happier. During this mental health crisis, our own mind is tricking us. Playing us the “fool” to end our lives as if that is going to help our family is a bazaar way. That is just dark delusional thinking!
NEVER has destroying family bonds through suicide brought a family together! Never has it brought happiness or benefits without you! (I just needed to put that out there.)
You may have a moment of clarity and this is what you can do – Call for help.*
Crisis Call to Action
Make a Call: Please call our 24-Hour Crisis Line 941-575-0222.
The line goes directly to the Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) and is a 24-hour, seven days a week facility that provides interventions to those who are experiencing a mental health crisis.
Whomever picks up the line is professionally trained to help and can assist you in determining your best course of action during the crisis.
Help Me – NOW WHAT?
Be prepared to give your name and maybe some other information. It is NEEDED to help the caller in crisis; that is all. They don’t have Caller ID or any way to track the phone caller who you are. They want to help you and you called so, you want help.
Some of us deal with suicidal ideation, like my-self, where daily I would have issues with the macabre. Some days because of some meds, I would get really bad bouts. Other times not so much, but when talking about the issue–I always found comfort and grounded my feet in reality! It was my way to pull myself back together and move forward. Realizing that it was symptomatic of my “condition” also enhanced due to meds (Thanks Dr. Matthews for changing and working with me on my med management!)…it eventually helped me get past that dark period. Did I need the CSU each time – No.
However, my situation always is different from your situation because we are all unique. Calling the crisis line and talking to a professional staff member at the crisis center WILL help you. Even if your next course of action may be setting an appointment with your regular doctor you see at CBHC or you and/or a family/friend driving down and dropping you off at the Crisis Unit (open 24 hours a day) or calling 911 and asking for a ride to be admitted voluntarily due to a crisis: is worth the call for help.
Whatever the Mental Health Crisis, knowing your options can save your life! Even if it is as simple as making a phone call: 941-575-0222
Chato Stewart Consumer Peer Ambassador*NOTE: Not every mental health crisis requires hospitalization. This post heights Individuals that are admitted voluntary or involuntary under the Baker Act, and are potentially at risk to themselves or others.