So, about 20 years ago I was diagnosed with schizophrenia and became unemployable. I actually quit playing bass for about 15 years completely. I had been spending my time drinking alcohol every day and playing games on my PC and watching movies and such.
Until about 2.5 years ago when I bought my new Ibanez GWB205 and motivated myself to play bass again. Then I went online and found @misterCRUSH here on Talkbass talking about his experiences with schizophrenia and his success story with getting his life back with playing bass and running. We connected on facebook and had lots of talks about our mutual problems. I could say we became long distance friends. His story motivated me to try out a local jazz jam session. Because if he can do it, so can I.
So, I've been playing at the local jazz jam for a little over a year now and it has been golden. I got out of the house once a week and met new people. I got lots of compliments on my playing and sound, which helped build my self esteem again. Even got asked to substitute in jazz combos. And 2 weeks ago I was asked to join a band. Next monday is the first rehearsal. I'm so happy that I got back that part of my life and that I'm now becoming known again in my town for being a bass player that people can rely on. I have even been open about my schizophrenia and got nothing but positive comments on it.
Seeing misterCRUSH his succes with his running routine I was inspired to get myself a new mountainbike. Riding bikes used to be an activity that I did a lot when I was younger and I think this will be the thing that will bring my body and mind back into the shape it used to be.
All in all I think I can say I'm getting back everything the schizophrenia took from me. And it feels great. I still have some symptoms but they pale in comparison to the fun I'm having in life again.
