Are you bipolar or an addict looking for insight from a like-minded soul? Have a loved one suffering from bipolar or addiction and want some inside advice? While I’m not a doctor or medical expert, I can tell you about my experiences with this dual diagnosis and look to support others with replies. Note that your submission may be used in an upcoming blog post, although names will be changed.
This week Allie C. writes:
I’ve been diagnosed with bipolar for twelve years now and stable since 2009. I take my meds and I feel OK. I’m living a normal life. I’m sober. But what if I didn’t have bipolar to deal with? I was pondering this question: If you could take away your bipolar disorder and be “normal,” would you?
Being bipolar is a blessing in disguise. It’s what makes us with the disorder fascinating, unique, colorful, and empathetic.
Sure, it’s annoying having to take all that medication all the time. But it keeps us in check. And I wouldn’t wish major depression on my worst enemies. The hysterical crying. The body aches. The insomnia. It’s terrible.
However, if depression is the worst part, the best is the hypomania. It seems we maniacs — I’m calling us maniacs for lack of a better collective word — can sometimes accomplish more in one day than five people combined. We can go to work, clean our apartments, be creative, speed-read, take on home projects, play video games, listen to music, watch TV, and make calls — all in one day. Our confidence is through the roof. We are superhumans. And the rush! It feels so good to be hypomanic.
Then there’s full-blown mania, which can come with hallucinations and psychosis. Mania can make us careless with money. We run amok on Facebook and Instagram. We don’t sleep. We notice the ugly things in life. It’s scary, to say the least. I could do without the mania.
But overall, I wouldn’t change being bipolar for the world.
My experience surviving a yearlong depression makes me feel like I can accomplish anything. I endured. And I’m a stronger person as a result.
Because we are such passionate people, maniacs can create marvelous art with ease. Whether it’s music, paintings and sketches, books, poetry or blog posts, our creative streak is endless. We strive to be clever every day. We thrive on it.
I’ve been stable with no major manic or depressive episodes since 2008. I’m lucky to have found the right medication cocktail.
Because of my meds, I’m balanced and clearheaded. I’m happy and I’m successfully writing a book, which I wouldn’t be doing if I weren’t bipolar. I’m not defined by my disease, but it colors my personality and has shaped who I am today.
I’m unique. I’m different. Bipolar is who I am. And I embrace it.
If you have a question, email me at conortv@mac.com or write me on Facebook.
