The Chicago Bipolar Disorder Fitness and Well Living Group May Meeting

Hello again and thanks for keeping in touch. Thanks also to all for turning out at our first three meetings.

Getting a lot of responses from people who would like to attend, but the location is inconvienent for them. Why don't we meet more often at a variety of locations, thereby covering a larger area. I'm open to suggestions and Mondays work best. For instance, why don't we schedule an evening at The 3rd Coast in the Gold Coast area of the city, then something in Evanston the following week. I'll leave the locations up to the locals and look forward to hearing your input. Remember, it's all about being your own best advocate and taking the initiative.

Prep work for the February meeting(s): Let's each write a short essay recounting the rebuilding of our confidence during recovery.

Topics to consider: important dates,
transitions between the seasons,
activities realating to the seasons,
People: who were the primary influences? Doctors,
therapists,
support group members,
family,
friends,
book authors,
musical artists/songs,
public figures ( media representations that may have provided a positive influence).
Basically, what where the outside influences in your recovery?
Decisions you made during crisis periods: was there a time when you said enough is enough and I'm going to fight this until the fight is done?
Feedback: what tools/methods/scales do you use to monitor yourself?
what " do the professionals in your life use to monitor your success?
How will you know when you are done?
How does physical activity affect your well-being?
What role does nutrition play in your health?
How attentive are you/would you like to be in these areas.

Are there any topics you would like to discuss at this or futher meetings?

Looking forward to seeing all of you on February 11th, 2008 @ 7:00.

Mac.