Seven years ago, I was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, a debilitating condition that combines the features of schizophrenia with that of depression and addiction. This short guide shares the lessons I have picked up in the years since diagnosis and is meant to help the recently diagnosed come to terms with their state of mind and learn to live happier, more successful lives.
When I was first diagnosed, I thought my life was over. That was not what happened. I have had to learn to live and function inside my own head again and it is an ongoing process, but my disorder does not hold me back from achieving my goals.
If you're looking for a memoir, this book is not for you. This is an analysis of the experience and how to cope and thrive, not a narrative.
Topics covered include:- The weeks following diagnosis
- Getting past the initial despair
- Learning to like yourself again
- Medication
- Specific symptoms and how to deal with them
- Coming out about the illness to close friends and romantic partners
- Addiction as a Schizoaffective
This book is intended to give hope to the recently diagnosed and has been written to be around a one hour read to keep it accessible to people who may not be open to more long-winded advice books.