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COOL TIPS 

“OH, NO!!” – Problems…Problems…Problems…

“SNAP TO IT” – Solutions…Solutions…Solutions…

Have you every felt overwhelmed, lost and out of step? Do routine expectations for success no longer seem achievable?  When problems and challenges erupt, what do you do?

Here are some creative strategies for handling situations just like these. In most situations, we have choices: to bury our head in the sand (AKA “denial”), wail “Oh, WOE IS ME” and assume the victim position…   or we can “SNAP TO IT,” and take creative action toward finding solutions! The choices I have found to be successful in managing family conflicts associated with mental illness while applying life skills to difficult situations have awarded great results.

Cool Tip #1 will help you to get in step and begin creatively taking action toward finding appropriate solutions.

Rock and Roll!- Start moving forward, keeping in mind that the key to doing so is found in “Self Care.”  When you are physically, mentally, and spiritually nourished, and properly rested, you are better able to face any situation. Action taken, no matter what it is, will propel you forward.

 14 years ago we were faced with mental illness. Our daughter was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder.  In her manic state, she believed she had discovered the cure for AIDS, but then slumped into deep depression and was unable to get out of bed.  When I connected with Pia Elliott at Canadian Mental Health – her first words were, “Take care of yourself.”

I thought, how can I, when I’m in the depths of chaos?  I could see no way out. But you know, those four little words saved my physical health, my mental state and a relationship.  For our daughter, Self Care factors into her managing her career, three children and her health.   It is a mantra that I walk and talk!

One action step to start you moving forward is “Take 15 minutes a day just FOR YOU” – to walk in the park, soak in a bubble bath, or grab a latte at your favorite coffee shop.  It’s your choice.  

“Rock and Roll - Take Care of Yourself”

Remember:  Even the decision to not make a decision is a choice. 

Submitted by: Mona Cooley

Mona Cooley, CEO, Founder of Cool Family Solutions (www.coolfamilysolutions.com or 403.512.5558) guides families faced with Mental Illness and Addictions to Take Control of their Own Health, Live with a Purpose and Implement a Plan to manage challenges long term.   For individuals she offers sessions called “Discover My Purpose” and “Mapping Your Purpose”.   For Corporations  a “Health and Wellness Program” for employees and their families.

Mona gives credit to the Toastmasters Leadership Program for the foundation to her having the Confidence to launch a Passion Dear to Her Heart in a very volatile economic time.