My calling

It is a fact that bipolar disorder has a strong genetic component and, in my family, it’s not skipping a generation. My paternal grandfather, aunt, cousins and myself, we all have it and we all deal with it in our own way. I recently had a family member reach out to me because he was really suffering with mental issues and really wanted help to deal with it. I was so honored that he chose to reach out to me for comfort and relief from his struggles. It really made me realize what I’m here to do and I can’t stray from that. I was really put here to help those who suffer from mental illness navigate through the process of the highs and lows of the journey.

We sat down and had a conversation about the family history and exactly how he was feeling and how it was affecting his day-to-day life. I expressed that he should seek a medical professional without delay and even provided him with some options. I expressed the need for medication and therapy, and he was receptive.

There is no need to go through life white knuckling it. When you know something is not right, that your behavior is off kilter don’t wait, reach out for help and support right away. Don’t let people tell you you’re fine, everyone feels that way. It’s not true. When I see a loved one going through what I went through the first thirty-seven years of my life I want to end the suffering in the healthiest way possible. It’s so fulfilling to help someone else maneuver through their mental health healing. The way it made me feel to help someone I love was more than fulfilling. It is my purpose and my joy.

All I’ve ever talked about regarding bipolar disorder is mania because that’s mostly what I’ve experienced. Now I’d like to examine a major depressive episode. A major depressive episode can cause you to struggle with day-to-day activities like going to work, getting along with others and taking part in social activities. I’ve seen these symptoms in a loved one and my heart bleeds for him. I would do anything to make it go away and the one thing I can do is assist him with getting help. There is nothing wrong with reaching out to a medical professional and getting the medication that will relieve your symptoms.

Based on a simple Google search a major depressive episode includes five or more of these symptoms:

-  A depressed mood --- sadness, emptiness, hopelessness or tearful. Even feeling irritable, angry or hostile.

-  Loss of interest or feeling no pleasure in all or most activities.

-  Sleeping too little or too much.

-  Feeling restless or acting slower than usual.

-  Being very tired or losing energy.

-  Feeling worthless, feeling too guilty or feeling guilty when it’s not necessary.

-  Having a hard time thinking or concentrating, or not being able to make decisions

-  Thinking about, planning or attempting suicide.

 There are some other common features of bipolar disorder which include:

-  Anxious distress, when you’re feeling symptoms of anxiety and fear that you’re losing control.

-  Melancholy, when you feel sad and have a deep loss of pleasure

-  Psychosis, when your thoughts or emotions disconnect from reality.

I know psychosis all too well and you don’t want to experience it. I am a big believer in the proper medication and therapy. I know what life was like without medication and it’s exceedingly better now that I’m on the proper medication. It takes time to get it right but don’t be discouraged. You can get there with the right doctor.

If you’re feeling any of these symptoms talk to someone whom you trust, seek professional help and don’t be opposed to medication and therapy. There is no need to suffer any longer when you can be well.