Earlier this year, there was a story on the local news. It was about a person having a manic episode in a business. This occurred in a small community. They acted out quite lewdly and did some really bad things to that business. One key takeaway is from someone interviewed in that business. They noted there is “no plan” for when that happens. Furthermore, from other scenarios that I saw, they and others do not know exactly what to do. This includes law enforcement. They do not know how to handle the situation best when it happens. Whether it is mania or any other mental health issue, the response is uncertain. An autistic episode also has an unpredictable response. This gave me more evidence why it is important to always care for myself.

It can be difficult to understand the importance of things as they are. This realization often comes only when the impact is strongly felt. But no one really thinks about the dangers of neglecting mental health care. These dangers can affect not only yourself but also others that cross your path. Doing what is right can be hard sometimes. Yet, I have found countless proof of its importance. Many others have experienced the same. Caring for your mental health by doing what is right is always the best thing to do for yourself. This holds true even when it is hard and a battle to do so.

The reality is when we can’t control our mental state, it can cause fear in others. It can also lead to concern. It has in me a few times over the years. The last time I had a candid conversation with someone who valued me, I made a promise to myself. I pledged not to make the pointless and destructive decisions I had in the past.

You not realize when you are unwell. Nonetheless, there are consequences and actions that can set you back from where you are. Not taking your medication can start making those things a reality. It causes unwanted actions in your life. These actions can make things more difficult for you to endure. I have seen it in others many times over the past year. It strengthened my mission to continue doing what’s right, no matter what it takes. I know it is right. It makes me the regulated and relaxed person I need to be. This helps me navigate the things I must do in my life.

2026 has shown me the importance of maintaining consistency in caring for my mental health. It is crucial to be progressive in my approach. I must avoid falling deeper into past habits. While I have known what I did in the past was pointless and destructive, it never serves me. In the past few first months of 2026, I realized it was always best to keep doing what was right. I should not fear what is expected or what people do not plan for.