[HALLIEBETH87]

I outed myself on Facebook and I feel so empowered!!
Here's what I wrote:

I have to share with you, my peoples. I used to be ashamed...not anymore. I share a lot of articles about mental health and especially bipolar. It's because I care. It's because I understand from personal experience. It's because have ridden the dangerous roller coaster that is bipolar. I've had the panic attacks of panic disorder and I have had the flashbacks and things that accompany PTSD.

I used to be ashamed. No more. I am about to start volunteering for Local mental health center in their day program. In the new year, I will be attending training to become a Peer Support Specialist. It's something I am both excited for and passionate about. I want to encourage and support other people going through the hard times like I do. So many great people have been there for me in my life and I want to be that for others.

I used to be ashamed. No more.

My story isn't over yet!

;

[Cdnstargazer]

Wow. That's a big step in self acceptance and confidence. Thank you for sharing such a powerful, confident post. I'm sure you also made other who struggles with mental health issues feel less alone.

We are stronger together.

I love what you wrote Hallie. That took lots of confidence and I hope it helps not only you, but your family and friends who might be struggling as well.

[ComfortablyNumb5]

Good move! I "came out" a few months ago about my BP and received tons of support. I didn't realize how many of my friends struggled too. It was humbling. Many people wrote me personal messages to tell their story and we still keep in touch! It was nerve wracking after I pushed that "post" button but it turned out well. People need to wake up!

[HALLIEBETH87]

I got several replie and over 60 likes on it. I feel loved!

Add another like from me . I don't do Facebook or I'd do it for real.

[~Christina]

Lol I did too! Lots of support

[Daonnachd]

I did a couple of months ago because I wanted to be able to use fb to request rides for ECT. So it has remained very much in view since then. Lots of support. I'm glad I did it.

[Fuzzybear]

Great move, I like what you wrote Hallie!

All of you are braver folk than I. I don't Facebook anymore, but people are likely guessing my secret as I become less adept at hiding it. Once my family firm folds, I'll likely come out hard.

[OctobersBlackRose]

Good.job on coming out on Facebook. I came out back in May.for Mental Health awareness month. I had support, but I did have a so called friend Ive known since high school and marching band (he was actually my section leader), unfriend me, idk if it was because of that or not but the timing was suspicious. Anyways nice post you wrote.

[HALLIEBETH87]

Thanks everyone!!! I felt so good after posted! I have over 100 likes and several supportive posts!