[Bat_Orchid90]

Is it possible to help others defeat their demons when you have yet to defeat your own? Does it make it easier because you can empathize more easily, or does it make it worse because you may not be a strong enough “ anchor” for them. I’ve always had a desire to be a counselor or a case worker or something along those lines. But can I do that while battling depression myself? What if it takes years for me to actually “get over it”. That’s years that I am not employed... years that I’m not doing what i love... is it possible to push your pain aside to help others overcome theirs..?

[USMCBIPOLAR7]

I am Bipolar and have been for 30 years. I was diagnosed and was service connected at that time. I was determined to be 30 % disabled then as well for my bipolar condition. I started work as a mental health technician and started college. I received two degrees with honors , and became a counselor and had also been a case manager. I feel as long as you are not severely impaired you are a huge asset to the mental health field . You can give hope and a good example of managing depression etc. we are all broken in some way but it can be an advantage in helping others.

[Bat_Orchid90]

Originally Posted by USMCBIPOLAR7

I am Bipolar and have been for 30 years. I was diagnosed and was service connected at that time. I was determined to be 30 % disabled then as well for my bipolar condition. I started work as a mental health technician and started college. I received two degrees with honors , and became a counselor and had also been a case manager. I feel as long as you are not severely impaired you are a huge asset to the mental health field . You can give hope and a good example of managing depression etc. we are all broken in some way but it can be an advantage in helping others.

That’s wonderful that you’ve been able to do so much! It’s been an odd feeling for me. Not sure if I am drawn ti the field because im trying to understand myself or if i want to save others from feeling as bad as i do...

[USMCBIPOLAR7]

The more tools I learned to help others the more I have learned to help myself. I use a light box now for depression and it works wanders I also have many coping techniques and will work on diet and exercise soon. Helping others can help us but you have to take care of you as # 1 priority or you will not be able to take care of others. Good luck to you