new person on the block

[martha hay]

Hi gals and guys,
My name is Martha and I am new to this site. I am 38 years and live with bi-polar disorder, anxiety and PTSD. I have been in and out of the hospitals and Crisis Stabilization Units for about 12 years now. This past year I have been in the inpatient psych. units and the CSU (short for Crisis Stabilization Units) for more time than I have been out in the outside world.
Other interesting info about me: I am a trained mental health Peer Advocate and I belong to a Clubhouse for people with mental illness called Star Light Center. In addition, I like to travel by bus, train, car and plane, I like to collect cats (both living and not living)I like to eat and I am good at doing a type of sewing called cross stitch.

[shatteredhopes]

Hi (((((((((Martha))))))))))...that's a hug! Welcome to the site! You sound very positive and upbeat despite spending so much time in crisis this past year. I know every hospitalization has seemed to set me back, kept me alive, but set me back. My human rights lawyer who handled my case against a hospital that mistreated me told me about such a peer program around here...I didn't pursue at the time because I was so messed up, and if employed after trained, it was full time and I just wasn't up to that. I would be interested in what you do as a peer advocate, if you don't mind sharing. I have often thought since then about being some sort of advocate for fellow mentally ill people who often cannot articulate for themselves and are mistreated by the mental health profession at times, when we most need help and compassion.

People on this site are very supportive and have been a lifeline for me. I am sure you will find the same. So welcome again!

Wishing you light and peace in your day...

[Mich]

Welcome (((((Martha)))))) - I am sorry you have had so much time in the hospital this year. I am positive that you will find friendly and supportive people here and look forward to learning more about you. I am a 46 year old woman with depression and PTSD. Welcome to the forum!

[lisalou]

Hiya Martha, welcome here, glad you have found this forum and hope we can be of help to you. I am a 29yr old woman from England suffering severe depression. I love cats too! I have three, Pixie and her two sons Ziggy and Smudge. They were born under my bed and fit in the palm of my hand. Now they are big rascals!!!!!!

[crystalgaze]

Hello Martha! Wow! It's good that you have things you like! Oh, the most I did was crochet when I was in elementary school....

Welcome!