This past Thursday, Crystal shared with us her presentation entitled “ Investing in your Mental Health “ 

Crystal shared that for the first two years she attended our support group, she was also in college at the time earning her teaching degree. So, during those days when she was in college, she learned various ways to help her de-stress. She discovered diamond painting during college, which helped her to de-stress. I had never heard of diamond painting before, but I discovered that it usually involves applying hundreds of multi-colored rhinestones on a canvas.  So diamond painting has helped Crystal process her week throughout college and to this day. 

So, have you ever had moments when you were so excited about something in your life, and you share this moment with others, and they just don’t share the same excitement?  I believe we all have. Crystal shared that her family is very conservative with their money, and they have their own ideas about what she should do with her own money. She shared that it’s important and not dumb to spend money on things or hobbies that help with your mental health. 

It’s important to realize that hobbies will help you get through college or while you’re looking for a job. 

Others will always have different feelings about situations. But we should try not to judge others for purchases or investments they make. Sometimes when you share with others that you experience depression, anxiety or bi-polar, it doesn’t quite click with that other person and maybe they just don’t quite understand.

These days, when working as a teacher, Crystal enjoys making a special connection with her students. I also enjoy the connection with others we all experience by just attending our DBSA support group every week. DBSA is such an amazing part of our lives.