We strive in our work to constantly be trying to develop our own aims, which are to create an atmosphere in the workshops that is safe, respectful and enjoyable, promoting a deeper understanding of psychosis.
We encourage users to talk about their issues so they can learn from others, using creative mediums as ways of expression and for enhancing participants' skills and ideas for developing psychological approaches for those experiencing psychosis.
We work to explore creativity as a tool for learning and/or developing relationships and look at the implications of labelling and ways of using this to improve mental health services and personal development.
Mania affects people in different ways
Some people can have a manic episode for short
bursts whilst others can remain in this
state of mind for some time
Common thoughts and behaviour during a manic episode include:
Many ideas at one timeElated and excitedAssertive, may approach strangersConfidentSee connections constantlyBelief that he/she holds certain powersAwareness raisedLive for today so may do things on impulse without being worried about the consequencesSpeaks what is on his/her mindThinks in an imaginative and also an unusual wayDoes not want to sleepAn extract from one of our trainers:
When I first had mania, I thought everyone else was mad. I really did think
I was the only sane person on Earth,
I thought it was up to me to make things right as I had more awareness than anyone else.
I saw connections I had never seen before; I listened to the radio whilst the television was on and thought I could see beneath the surface and discover the secrets of the universe.
I felt like I was really in control and all-powerful. I had so much energy, I didn't want anyone to stop me.
I couldn't understand why those around me were concerned, I had never felt as free or confident. I wanted to continue this state of mind - it was like being on Acid and Ecstasy at the same time. I had been very depressed before so I clung on to this euphoric state desperately.
I would never have stayed voluntarily in hospital because
I didn't want to come down - I thought I was on a mission to save the world.
The months after discharge were very difficult for me. When I realised that I was not 'special' or the 'chosen one', it was incredibly hard.
I was also embarrassed about my behaviour during the mania but most of all, I felt like I had lost all hope. With the help of therapy and the support of my friends and family, I started gaining confidence again.
It's only in recent years that I have started dealing with my 'ordinariness' and started appreciating that my life is 'small' yet meaningful to me.
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