Being a Mental Health Technician myself for over 5 years now, It was very interesting to read through this thread to get other's perspectives on mental health, some issues they themselves have had, tips, etc. Think it is fantastic as well that forum members have helped fellow forum members with any problems that may have arisen in their own lives, just great.
My current position is a MHT Supervisor on a Dual Diagnosis unit. This type of unit is patients that have a drug and/or alcohol problem or addiction along with mental disorder such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar, etc. To say it is challenging would be a vast understatement, but also of course rewarding in its own way whenever I see a patient really get better day by day through learning new coping skills, med management, etc. We do a great job of sending patients to proper outpatient rehabs and similar as well. I love my job for sure and see no reason that I won't still be in the Mental Health field for several more years to come.
As for my own mental health problems, I have dealt with depression and anxiety a lot during my life, but am grateful and blessed to have a good network of friends and a close family to help me get through those times.. Also, I consider the coping skills I have (Mainly reading, taking hikes, etc) to really help me also. Unfortunately, I do think mental health and the stigma as it were that is attached to it is still a major problem around the world, but I do think things are somewhat headed in the right direction in regards to that.
Not a therapist by any means, but more than willing to be a listening ear via PM or through a reply if need any advice about coping skills or just want to vent about something. Take care all.