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I  happened to meet, via some networking, a professional colleague whose philosophy of mental health and human growth really synced with what I think.  This gentleman's name is Tom Wooton.  He founded a company called Bipolar Advantage.  I won't go into detail about his company.  But I would recommend that you watch his video, in which he talks candidly about his own struggle with Bipolar Disorder.

However, listen to the philosophy he has about "mental health conditions:" 

"Our Mission is to help people with mental conditions shift their thinking and behavior so that they can lead extraordinary lives. We are dedicated to the concept that recovery does not have to be limited to 90% of full function; true recovery means doing the hard work that brings you to 150%! We strongly believe that we can turn our 'condition' into one that becomes an advantage instead of an 'illness' or a 'disorder.'"

One of things I was most struck by as I watched his own personal testimonial about dealing with bipolar disorder was the balance between giving into the 'delusion' that you are unable to function because of your condition, versus being aware of the realistic limitations, but also striving to take responsibility for who you are in full.  You are not your diagnosis!  You are an incredible human being with so much potential.  Rise up, and take responsibility.  This means admitting that you may have a condition, that you may have limitations, but it also means looking at your strengths, acknowledging those, and using your gifts and talents.


 
 

I have spent a lot of time working with 'Aspies' (a term commonly used for by persons who have been gifted with Asperger's and Autism in referring to themselves).  I have spent a lot of time with their parents, spouses, children as well.  One of the most common misconceptions that "NT's" (those of us who are 'neurotypical') have is that Autism or Aspergers is a disability.  One of the most common disappointments, or complaints, Aspies have is that NT's are trying to make them change who they are, as if they were somehow deficient.  Unfortunately, that is a very dehumanizing view of people.  Rather, any of us, whether we be NT's, or a person struggling with a different type of life problem (and who of us does not, this writer included!), need to understand that every person is an amazing creation, with limitless abilities, possibilities, talents, and gifts.

I choose to see and appreciate those gifts, nurture them, and bring them forth in each client.  And I am blessed to learn from every person who I enter into a collaborative working relationship with.