I first knew Bernie many years ago (nearly 25 years ago in fact). As we grew to know each other better, I began to teach him about my beliefs which are based in the spirituality of man. He became interested in what I had to say and took up some of the practices that I advocated. These included regular meditations to look deep within himself to find his imbalances and also ways to 'put things right'.
Unfortunately Bernie suffered the death of his son, which resulted in a severe depression. This depression coupled with unimaginable grief sent him over the edge and instead of looking at the cause of his behaviour at that time, Bernie was prescribed anti-psychotic drugs. This effectively killed the man I knew.
For the next eleven years I watched as he lost any sense of who he was. Where once he had taken pride in himself and his appearence, there now was a man who had effectively given up on personal hygiene and wore clothes that were never ironed. His days were filled with the day centre and all that entailed, sitting at home in a chair rocking backwards and forwards or sleeping. He had no appetite. No ambition. No motivation. No emotions. Nothing that gives our lives any kind of quality or pleasure.
Nearly two years ago Bernie asked for my help to try to regain part of his life. I took him back to the early days when I'd taught him how to meditate. I reminded him of his spirit within which is infinitely wiser than himself and was just waiting to be called into service. I once again guided him to find his inner strength and direction.
In that time Bernie has come along in leaps and bounds. He has stopped taking the medication and has been given back much that they took away from him.
The use of anti-psychotic drugs needs to more carefully controlled and alternative medicine should be given careful consideration as a viable treatment. It is my sincere belief that if Bernie had been diagnosed correctly he would not have had to lose those 11 years and ultimately his life.
This cannot be allowed to continue. It is a disgrace that these kind of drugs are being given to adults let alone the youth of today. These young people are the future of our country and as such they should be given the best opportunities and prescription, mind altering drugs should not really come into the equation.
Admittedly alternative therapies may take longer to realise an effect but once the technique/art of self-realisation is understood, it can always be called upon on a daily basis to bring calm, strenghth and direction to one's life. I urge everyone who reads this to support Damaged Minds in any way that they can to help bring about change to the mental health system.
Should you wish for more information regarding this article, you can contact me Tabatha, at ethmin@hotmail.co.uk.
Thanks for taking the time to read.
Blessings.
