Being diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder explained some of the aspects of my life that myself and others around me had found confusing or complicated. But, this diagnosis also opened up a whole new world of trying to figure out what it meant in my life, and what in my life was a result of this disorder.
Bipolar Awareness Day takes place on March 30th 2022.
Having Bipolar Disorder is characterized by having manic episodes and depressive episodes. The difference between Bipolar I and Bipolar II comes down to the severity of manic episodes and whether it is considered a full blown manic episode or a hypomanic episode.
Even though there are treatment options such as medications and therapy, it is a disorder that will likely affect you for the rest of your life.
The disorder on its own varies based on the individual. In my experience, I have had symptoms for years before I was ever diagnosed. It wasn’t until having a manic episode induced by a medication I was taking for anxiety that I was diagnosed in September 2021.
This disorder has affected any and every aspect of my life and has caused lots of difficulties in my relationships (both platonic and romantic) and even with my family. It also almost caused me to dis-enroll from school for a semester. It makes it difficult for me to focus and to control my emotions.
The manic episodes in particular are extremely difficult for me as I don’t yet fully understand them or how to cope, react, and handle them. The depressive episodes aren’t much better, I just know how to handle them better and am somewhat used to them.
I’m now on medications, in group therapy, and individual therapy to try and further learn about my disorder, be able to handle my disorder, and ultimately, accept my disorder.
I will continue to advocate for mental illness and for myself because maybe if more people had been open about it when I was younger, some of the problems in my life could’ve been handled better and sooner, or avoided altogether.
Check in on your friends and family who struggle with mental health. Long story short, we’re not okay. The medications help, therapy helps, but everyday stressors can impact these people in more ways than you think.
Sources include my personal experience as well as the Mayo Clinic – you can view their information on Bipolar Disorder here.