How To Rid Yourself of Denial

A very common response to a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is “denial.” Do not fall into this trap! If you need to get a second or third opinion, go for it.

When I was first diagnosed with bipolar disorder, I got several other opinions to validate my diagnosis. Each time, the doctor independently diagnosed me with bipolar disorder.

I found my diagnosis of bipolar disorder validating. Plus, a diagnosis gave me a direction to focus my efforts on managing bipolar day-to-day.

Initial Denial

As I mentioned, many people do not accept their initial diagnosis of bipolar disorder. They may completely deny the diagnosis, or they only accept it halfway by downplaying the severity of bipolar disorder.

Let me give you an example.

A few years ago, I met a guy who told me he had a “mild” case of bipolar disorder. This comment threw me completely off guard because bipolar disorder is, by definition, a serious mental illness characterized by extreme shifts in mood.

Downplaying the severity of bipolar disorder adds to the stigma that I am currently trying to fight and eliminate.

This is just one example of someone living in denial, who is not getting the help and treatment they so desperately need.

Do Not Fall Into the Trap of Denial

In the past, I ran a group for individuals living with bipolar disorder for many years. I have also attended many groups as a participant. Those meetings provided evidence of the importance of accepting your diagnosis.

If you do not think you have an issue to address, you simply will not address it. Here, if you do not address your diagnosis and do not believe it to be true, you will not pursue treatment. That is why acceptance is so important.

Acceptance is the first step in managing bipolar disorder. If you accept that you live with bipolar disorder, you can move forward to pursue proper treatment.

You can successfully manage bipolar disorder with the right treatment.

Last Thoughts

Take charge of your bipolar disorder. It does not define who you are as a person. Yes, it is an illness you will have for life, but it is something you can manage with the proper support and treatment.

I do everything I can, within my control, to stay healthy. My health is priority number one and paramount to everything else. If you cannot function, then how can you go to work, take care of your kids, or complete any other obligations you may have? See what I am saying?

Remember, bipolar disorder is a treatable illness. There is no reason for you to be left off “the list” of individuals whose bipolar disorder is stabilized.

To maintain this stability in my life, my entire day is structured in the healthiest way possible. I am constantly aware that it is an ongoing daily battle to manage this illness.