You are not a failure, you just got sick

I know it is hard to remember that mental illness is really just like any other illness when you think about it. It's just easy to forget since the symptoms are not immediately obvious.

I have had a similar experience this semester. I had my first bipolar manic episodes in October and as a result needed to drop all but one class. I am a distinguished student with many awards and scholarships at my college so this really took a toll on my self esteem.

However I don't eat myself up over it anymore since the bipolar was out of my control. The best we can do is take care of ourselves and get better so we can return to our good academic performance. I strongly suggest you talk with the counselors on campus and get them to speak with your parents. Your parents need to realize hat this is not just you being lazy but you need medical help or therapy.

Hang in there. You are not alone!