Learn to Fight and Embrace Bipolar Disorder Now

My perception of bipolar disorder has changed and evolved throughout the years. With advancements in medical science, public perception, and my personal lived experience, this makes complete sense.

I used to see my experience as solely a fight. I fight the bipolar battle on a daily basis. Period. However, this view has evolved into something more.

Through my continued interactions with others living with bipolar disorder, I have learned something deeper about my own journey.

That is what I want to share with you today.

Stigma

The dictionary defines stigma as “A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.”

More celebrities are opening up about their struggles with mental health. Specifically, many have disclosed their diagnosis of bipolar disorder. This helps to educate the public about bipolar disorder, thus reducing stigma. However, it can also be a detriment to awareness.

When an actor or actress endorses anything, there is always hype attached to the endorsement. The endorsement is seen as the “in” thing. It makes me sad because that is what is happening to bipolar disorder – it is almost seen as an “in” thing to have. This further contributes to stigma.

Fight the Illness

When I was first diagnosed with bipolar disorder, my doctor compared it to diabetes. She said that I would have to take pills every day like a diabetic takes their insulin. She went on to say that bipolar disorder is a very serious, debilitating illness. It is a chronic illness with no cure. It is also degenerative, meaning that it can get worse without proper treatment.

It makes sense to say fight diabetes. The same goes for bipolar disorder. You fight an illness, right?

Embrace the Journey

Now, back to the concept of fighting bipolar disorder. As an illness, I fight the bipolar battle every single day of my life. That will never change – unless they find a cure, of course.

But, what about the actual journey of living with bipolar disorder day-in and day-out?

I see bipolar disorder as a separate entity from myself. It is an illness that I fight, but it does not define me completely as a person.

When I say embrace the journey, I do not mean to embrace bipolar disorder itself. Would you ever say embrace diabetes? Probably not. The same goes for bipolar disorder. You will never hear me say, “I embrace my bipolar disorder.”

The dictionary defines embracing as “Accept or support (a belief, theory, or change) willingly and enthusiastically.”

I embrace the journey of living with bipolar disorder. For me, that is a huge distinction. I accepted my diagnosis of bipolar disorder years ago. Each day is brand new, and I look forward to it with hope.

Fight ‘The Bipolar Battle’

Fighting bipolar disorder is a constant battle – The Bipolar Battle,

The various coping skills and strategies I have adopted I see as my supporting troops. They are my reinforcements to help me battle each day.

As a warrior, I empower myself each day by taking action to manage my bipolar disorder. This increases my ability to function, thus improving my overall quality of life.

Bipolar Disorder is a Serious Illness

Bipolar disorder is a very serious illness that, if left untreated, can kill me. In fact, I have knocked on death’s door a number of times. I do not think you can get any more serious than that.

Each day I wake up with a sense of urgency. I need to take my medication as soon as I get up. That is the first action in a long list I follow each day to fight bipolar disorder.

As you know, some days are easier than others. Many times, I just have to go through the motions, knowing that I am doing the best I can.

Please, do not underestimate your bipolar disorder. Do not minimize it. Take it seriously. I quickly learned never to let anyone minimize the struggle I face each and every day!

Last Thoughts

For me, looking at bipolar disorder as a war creates hope in my heart. I have an amazing support team that is there for me. Your support team may consist of your family and friends. However, not everyone has friends and family in their lives, so you can also count on your doctor, therapist, and any other professional helping you to manage your bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is extremely frustrating to live with. I know you can empathize with that. Just remember that you have the tools to win the bipolar battle each day!