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This story explains the obstacles around me as a schizophrenic. I've dealt with mental illness for almost half my life. Now, the strain on my mental status has increased, due to a serious medical status. I'm a Type II Diabetic with a seizure disorder, and with severe respiratory difficulties. All theses conditions included with my mental condition can produce stress and anxiety. Although, with strong spiritual faith, I have the courage to be strong, and maintain my stability.

Don't get me wrong, it can be difficult. Recently, I spent a whole week with very bad breathing, difficulty, having to be rushed to the hospital with the need of oxygen. Having respiratory therapy, and getting my lungs checked. Within all of this stressful period, my diabetes was out of control, my physical condition was taking crucial turns. My mental status was getting filled with stress and anxiety. At the moment, I figured that I was paranoid or wasn't in touch with reality because I felt I was going to the crossroads, that I was going to have a respiratory attack that would be fatal.

I was afraid to go to sleep at night. It might sound like an absurd thought, but in reality it could have been possible. I actually called my family to call me to check on me. The next morning, I faced the reality of life. God helped me pull through this traumatic experience for me. For my state of mind, I felt frightened, stressed out; most of all the anxiety was taking care of me. I even had a respiratory attack in my psychiatrist's office.

Dealing with a medical condition along with a mental condition (schizophrenia) can be a difficult and complicated task to handle. Well, as far as me -- I'm a 39-year-old woman with schizophrenia and other medical situations who conquers the experience everyday. Regardless of all that, I still struggle to maintain my stability, living independently in my own apartment, dealing with my housing tasks, complying with medications and medical appointments and complying with individual therapy with my psychiatrist.

I guess people are wondering how I manage to handle so many different obstacles around me, so much stressful situations, without giving up and just regressing. Well, God is my source. He gives me guidance to pursue life with hope and happiness. He lets me realize, life is precious and to fulfill it with happiness. His strength, gives me a positive outcome on life. There will be crucial times, stressful times and difficult times. My purpose is to be strong and to keep a strong focus that all these problems will eventually be resolved. Then I'll come to an understanding that I can conquer my negativity, stress, my health will become stronger, my mind will get stronger and wiser every day.

It's not easy for somebody with a mental condition to deal with serious life-threatening illnesses. If there are people in a situation like mine, my advice is -- life is too precious, be strong -- ask God to give you strength and guidance. You will have a better positive outlook on your situation. Keep your mind focused. Then, you'll be more happy and content, less stressed and discouraged. God Bless.