Speaking as a person that definitely struggles with mental illness: My two cents is that the true key to coping is to learn how to turn your dysfunction into a gift 
Much easier said than done, but I’ve certainly learned a thing or two in my days 
I literally just now made an account because last night I was at an especially low point, I was researching recommended ways to go through with it (as I usually do when I end up there) and I stumbled onto this site. I then spent a couple of hours reading through various posts and by the end of my experience, I actually felt a little bit better ^.^ Well enough to press onwards at least!
Anyway, with a great deal of effort, I managed to muster the strength to partially work through the challenge that had sent me spiraling down this familiar hole of despair. This small victory has provided me the courage to keep trying. . . I still have a long way to go before I’ve trudged my way out of this mess, and only a couple of days left before potentially life altering consequences ensue if I’m not able pull through. Please do wish me the utmost luck!
TL;DR: I managed to overcome the first leg of an arduous journey up the side of a mountainous obstacle by weaponizing some of my most debilitating qualities. Reading some of your stories here helped me to continue toward my life goal of attaining self-actualization— rather than sever the cord that binds me to this beautifully tarnished husk. I want to extend an offer of condolence to those that seek modest advice from a fellow traveler. If you decide to reach out, please understand that I cannot possibly manage a regular exchange and and/or reply to all of those who reach for my hand. I cannot promise you that I can save you from the brink of destruction. I cannot even guarantee that my advice will be useful to you or that you will find ultimate satisfaction in our correspondence. I will do what I can, which is not even to say that it will be adequate (: This is all anyone can ask of one another. The only ones that can truly save us, are ourselves.
Contact: mia_dead@protonmail.com
I leave you with a small treat <3 Please enjoy this lovely lofi vibe with a trace of melancholy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHgRBqJx9oc