DBSA JACKSON: Depression Bipolar Support Alliance of Jackson is committed to helping to improve the lives of those suffering with mood disorders. Our inspirational support group, A Better Tomorrow, meets every Thursday at 3 - 5 pm. At the Rainbow Peer Support Center, 67 American Drive, Jackson. Friends and family members are welcome. For more information call: (731) 215-7200.
Sometimes routine gets a bad rap…one that it doesn't always deserve. Oh, I can think of a few drawbacks it might have, but only a few. By far the pluses outweigh any negatives by what could be a wide margin. Just think of these few activities most of us are regularly involved in which require a number of routine actions: meal preparation, bathing, brushing teeth, rest, sleep, exercise, grocery shopping, laundry, house cleaning, bill paying, leisure, doctor and dentist visits, automobile maintenance, income tax filing.
If we lack a routine to accomplish these tasks, we can run into difficulties that we may come to regret later. Some will be simple, of course, like running out of milk for our cereal or not having any clean socks. Other problems could prove more costly in consequences like when the car stops for lack of oil or we get an eviction notice for not paying the rent or mortgage. Even more serious circumstances may arise, unfortunately, when we've failed to take proper care of ourselves and our doctor has just given us some bad news. These situations, as varied in scope and severity as they are, might all have been moderated to some degree and others even prevented if routine had been implemented and in place earlier on. So how does routine help us out…how does it work?
Activities that must be done regularly (daily, weekly, monthly, yearly or at specified times or intervals) usually are easier to accomplish and more thoroughly and accurately completed when a routine procedure is in place. People busy in an emergency room are all expected to follow established procedures to maximize proficiency and eliminate error. Successful teachers following well-developed guidelines use proven techniques and equipment that train young minds to think and learn. Bus, taxicab and truck drivers--along with airline pilots and ship captains--all follow maintenance procedures and operating routes and patterns to reach each destination safely. World class dancers practice particular routines that require specific movements in hopes of having acceptable if not perfect performances.
As dedicated caregivers, family members and companions to loved ones who have mood disorders, we might want to take a closer look at routine as an even more valuable tool than we might presently realize. To get started, here are a few routines we and our loved ones just might want to give additional thought to:
There are times to "think outside of the box" and there are times that established procedures and routines are best to follow. Knowing when to do which is of vital importance
Jerry Malugeon http://support.surfcitypress.org
