I’m Sloan Thrasher, the creator of this site and the MAPS tool, driven by the hope that it can offer assistance to others, much like it has aided me. MAPS is an idea that took shape a few years ago after extensive reflection and observation spanning over two decades dealing with the mental health system.

Throughout my career, I’ve worn multiple hats, primarily as a programmer, graphics designer, software engineer, and system designer. My professional journey spans various fields, from accounting and factory floor automation to web design. I’ve delved into electronics, hobby robotics, and had the opportunity to work with over 90 different programming languages.

Beyond the realm of technology, I’ve cultivated practical skills in household wiring, plumbing, carpentry, and welding. In my post-retirement phase, I’ve had the freedom to explore my creative inclinations. Wood-turning is a particularly fulfilling endeavor, complemented by forays into ceramics, photography, painting, and drawing.

Life took a turn after 26 years of marriage when my mental health challenges became overwhelming. Despite this, I cherish my role as a father to two sons and a grandparent to six grandchildren and one great-grandson. Retiring has allowed me to embrace a more diverse and creative aspect of life, finding satisfaction in both technical pursuits and artistic expressions.

My Health

In my later years, I’ve faced significant health challenges, including Type II Diabetes, Congestive Heart Failure, Sleep Apnea, GERD, and Asthma. My medical history includes 31 cardiac stents, two Mitral Valve Clips, a Quad Bypass, and one heart attack. Additionally, mobility issues stemming from diabetic nephropathy, a hip injury, and fatigue due to heart failure further complicate my health. While these illnesses undoubtedly add complexity to my journey with mental health issues, I’ve managed to access the right resources at crucial times, allowing me to lead a functional and happy life despite these challenges.

I hope you noticed that the title of the section didn’t distinguish between physical and mental health. Recognizing that these aspects are intricately linked and can influence each other, it’s important not to compartmentalize them as separate entities. Indeed, many mental health issues can stem from physical causes, while conversely, physical problems may be influenced by or connected to mental health concerns. By acknowledging and addressing the holistic nature of health, we can foster a more comprehensive and integrated approach to well-being.

Recognizing the intricate connection between physical and mental health can play a crucial role in dismantling the stigma associated with mental health concerns. When we understand that mental health is not indicative of a character flaw or weakness, it paves the way for a more compassionate and accepting approach. This shift in perspective encourages individuals to seek treatment without fear of judgment, ultimately reducing unnecessary suffering. Embracing the idea that mental health is an integral part of overall well-being fosters a culture of understanding and support, promoting the importance of seeking help and engaging in open conversations about mental health.

Sloan Thrasher – Why Bipolar When You Can Get It For Free

Navigating the mental health landscape for over 20 years, I am familiar with the challenges of finding the right providers and resources. Reflecting on my journey, I’ve realized that my mental health issues began in my pre-teens, and over time, I developed maladaptive coping mechanisms. Seeking help, I underwent various classes and programs, tackling diagnoses like Bipolar II, ADHD, and Severe Depression. From CBT and DBT to different medications and even ECT, each step contributed to my understanding.

The Intensive Residential Treatment program in Minnesota played a crucial role, bringing together all the tools and knowledge I had acquired. Living in a shared environment, engaging in daily activities, and receiving counseling, the program emphasized identifying symptom onset and selecting effective tools.

Fighting Stigma

The terms “mental health issues” and “being crazy” are used in different ways and can carry distinct connotations. It’s important to note that language around mental health can be sensitive, and using stigmatizing or pejorative terms like “crazy” is generally discouraged.

Mental Health Issues:

• Definition: Mental health issues refer to a broad range of conditions that affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, behavior, and overall well-being.
• Examples: Anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and many others.
• Nature: Mental health issues are recognized as medical conditions that can be diagnosed, treated, and managed. They are often considered part of the spectrum of human experiences and can affect individuals differently.

Being “Crazy”:

• Definition: The term “crazy” is colloquial and lacks a precise, clinical definition. It is often used in a colloquial or slang manner to describe someone whose behavior is perceived as unstable, irrational, and unpredictable. Notably, this term is not usually associated with an accurate understanding of mental health. Only a small percentage of people with mental health issues fit the average person’s idea associated with the term.
• Stigma: Referring to someone as “crazy” can perpetuate stigma and reinforce negative stereotypes about mental health. It may contribute to misunderstanding and discrimination against individuals facing mental health challenges.
• Subjectivity: The term “crazy” is highly subjective and may be used differently by different people. It’s crucial to be mindful of its potential impact on mental health discourse.Aslo, the tem craz

Moreover, the term “crazy” can prevent people from getting the help they need. It unnecessarily adds shame and might delay, or even prevent, someone from seeking the assistance they require. Using precise and respectful language when discussing mental health is essential for fostering understanding and empathy. If you or someone you know is dealing with mental health concerns, it’s advisable to seek professional help from mental health professionals who can provide support, guidance, and appropriate interventions.

Using precise and respectful language when discussing mental health is essential for fostering understanding and empathy. If you or someone you know is dealing with mental health concerns, it’s advisable to seek professional help from mental health professionals who can provide support, guidance, and appropriate interventions.

Recovery

Life is intricate, marked by both physical and mental health challenges. My journey has been a learning experience, often challenging and at times difficult. Surprisingly, I discovered the power of opening up about my struggles, shedding any sense of shame, and how it not only helped me but also others. I authored a small book featuring my photography and a poem titled “Out Of The Darkness Of Depression And Into The Light Of Recovery.” Initially self-published, it later gained recognition when The Menninger Clinic in Houston, Texas, published and distributed it.

My commitment to mental health awareness led me to appear on a radio broadcast during Mental Health Awareness month several years ago. Additionally, I developed a presentation titled “Why Bipolar When You Can Get It For Free,” designed for the families of individuals undergoing mental health treatment. This presentation, delivered with a touch of humor, aims to destigmatize mental health struggles and offers insights into the challenges of finding suitable resources for treatment. Each public engagement has further empowered me in my own battle against these diseases.

Fortunately, I’ve received numerous letters and comments from individuals who found benefit, experienced a shift in perspective, or developed improved relationships with loved ones on similar journeys. These interactions reinforce the positive impact of sharing experiences and insights in the realm of mental health.

My Motivation

In the realm of mental health, success with providers often hinges on the right training, experience, and a compatible personality. Recognizing these complexities, I developed a simple program years ago to track my day-to-day experiences. Through observation, I discovered subtle connections between seemingly unrelated factors, highlighting the intricate interplay of physical well-being and mood.

Where My Mood Maps Steps In

Traditional journals can be super helpful for some folks, providing a space to vent thoughts without sharing them. But let’s face it, for many, it’s a tough task—too time-consuming or tricky to put thoughts into words, especially with conditions like ADHD or anxiety. Many start a journal but end up stopping after a short while, finding it hard to keep up and review their progress.

That’s where this tool steps in—it’s like a journal but way more user-friendly. It’s quick, focused, and structured, making it easier to maintain. Plus, it’s a breeze to evaluate over time, something that’s a bit of a headache with traditional journals.

From my own experience, this tool has been a game-changer. Tracking my well-being and spotting connections between my environment and moods is a breeze — all at a glance. It’s a convenient way to stay on top of things without the hassle of having to write it all out.

But My Mood Maps is just one tool, it is not designed or intended to be a standalone solution. It’s meant to be a valuable part of your support team. While using this tool, it’s crucial to leverage existing aids such as therapy and counseling for your overall well-being and mental health. The significance of psychiatry, therapy, and counseling cannot be overstated—they should be your primary focus and the first line of support to take advantage of. My Mood Maps is here to complement and enhance your overall mental health journey, not replace the essential care and guidance provided by mental health professionals.

My sincere hope is that this tool and website prove beneficial to someone grappling with the complexities of achieving a balanced life. Recognizing that it may not suit everyone and is not intended to be the sole solution, I encourage users to explore the multitude of excellent tools, websites, and professionals available today. The key is to leverage everything within reach that can contribute to your well-being. Given the diversity of individual needs, it’s crucial to build a personalized set of resources that align with your unique situation. Embrace the variety of options at your disposal, tailoring your toolkit to suit your specific needs and preferences.