TO DISCLOSE OR NOT
What is madness? to disclose that you are in fact bipolar? The world we live in is not altogether ready for us. And if you read the definition of a bipolar person, their attributes generally include superior intelligence, high levels of energy,
outstanding creativity and imagination. and go on to say that most of us on proper medication can lead fairly normal lives. Now, I would argue that point from the inside of a bipolar person -- it's usually a desperate struggle to lead that life and a constant tweaking of meds -- but hey, the statement is true...We're as normal as the next guy. No serial killers here. We don't generally break down and go into psychotic fits in front of all to see. Give me a break. When are we going to have parity in mental health and realize that the brain is part of the body. A chemical imbalance in the brain is no ddifferent than a chemical imbalance in the pancreas -- one needs lithium....one needs insulin. Ever see anyone go into diabetic shock...They can look a bit crazy too! Disoriented, confused..and then passed out.
But just tell someone you are bipolar and watch their face. It goes into all kinds of wierd contortions and then a smile and then they look for the escape because they don't know what to do. They are afraid of it. People are afraid of mental illness. And they will continue to be until we all stand up and say "I'm bipolar" or "I'm schizophrenic" or "I have personalit disorder" and they learn that nothing bad happens to them.
3 comments:
I understand completley! Try telling your coworkers that your bipolar when you work at a psychiatric hospital. Your right- people never look at you the same way. I disclosed to a coworker last week- but she already knew I think- nurses are very intuitive. She asked me how I was doing- and I said I was tired because I was starting a new medications. "What- lithium"? It took me by suprise- but she was totally cool about it. I didn't even try to hide it- And I told her I was bipolar- and you know what she said? "So what?" Oddly comforting...
Beautifully said Michele!! This is my first time visiting your blog, but I think I'm going to like you. You talk like I think and try to talk.
When I have some time I will go back and read some of your earlier posts.
In the meantime, please do visit me as well.
You know I don't whether it true or not, but I've read several times that people with psychiatric illnesses in India do far better than in the US or Europe thanks to their much stronger family support and acceptance of their illness. We've got a lot to learn!
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