I see so many people here who feel ashamed or guilty for having bipolar-- and many other conditions, for that matter-- and it breaks my heart. I think a lot of that comes from the still-widespread social stigma about mental illness, and family attitudes. I was raised in a family that viewed mental illness as a character flaw-- and as a result I denied having a problem for many years. I don't feel shame or guilt though. I do feel a lot of sadness for what bipolar has cost me in my life, but then I remind myself how fortunate I am to be stable and moving on.
__________________
Dx Bipolar II 2014 -- currently in remission
Stay calm, be kind, have hope, love lots, and be well.
"Listen to the deep voice of your soul. Do not be distracted by the voice of your mind." -- Caitlin Matthews[/B][/COLOR][/SIZE]
|