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Anyone who lives with a mental illness will tell you that it can sap the very life out of you. Each day presents new challenges. For some, like those who live with bipolar disorder, they experience constant extremes, both low and high. People who live with anxiety worry about everything. The good news is that mental illness is now something recognized by the medical community and the general population, so it makes it easier for those who have it get the help they need. While more research is still necessary, there are also other ways to deal with the difficult challenges you face daily.

Keep Occupied

If you have too much time on your hands, it can often bring on symptoms that you would otherwise suppress. Keeping busy through planned events and projects can make your life easier to manage. For instance, maintaining your home benefits you in more than one way. By staying on top of the care and updating of your home, you will avoid the chaos that comes from a mess while also discovering new ways of how to increase home value so that, if you decide to sell it, you'll make out well.

Music Soothes the Soul

When you live with depression you often fall into a lethargic state where nothing matters. A good way to avoid this is to listen to music. Music, especially a familiar song that brings back good memories of happy times, will have you up and around and energized.

Exercising Keeps You Stable

By now you know the seemingly limitless benefits of regular exercise. It keeps your body fit, your internal organs functioning properly, can improve the condition of your skin giving it a more youthful appearance, and it helps in your fight of preventing diseases. What you may not know is that regular exercise also makes you happy, and for someone who lives with either depression or anxiety, this is a huge plus factor. And, best of all, any type of exercise--even a brisk walk each day--will help you remain calm and happy.

Companions

Living alone with no one to interact with can cause even a positive person to drift to the negative side. Loneliness can affect your state of mind and your health. Instead of avoiding public places and canceling appearances at family gatherings, get up, get dressed and enjoy. Socializing is a stimulant that your mind needs to keep the focus away from doom and gloom.

Associate with Positive Thinkers

While socializing is important. It's also in your best interest to maintain healthy relationships with people who view the glass half full, versus half empty. If you have a few friends or family members that are always negative in their view of life, avoid contact as much as possible. It's better for your state of mind to hang with positive thinkers.

You are What You Eat

A healthy diet comprised of good foods (the ones from the pie chart) will keep your mind sharp and your body energized. Lean meats, whole grains, lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts are just a few of the foods you should include in your daily diet. Avoid consuming too much salt, sugar, and bad fats, as they will have a greater impact on your body and mind than you might imagine.

Feel Special

Many people who live with a mental illness feel envious of other people and their lives. Just remember that, on the outside, anyone can look perfect. However, if you take a deeper look, everyone has something that they struggle with. So in the end, your life is just as important as anyone else's. Make it a point to tell yourself that you matter and that you are special.

While living with a mental illness comes with many challenges, it doesn't mean that you can't keep it under control and enjoy a good quality of life.