Did you know that over 50% of Depression suffers will NOT seek treatment because of the stigma surrounding mental illness? During any given year there are 5.7 million people suffering from Bipolar Disorder. You do the math ~ that’s a lot of people who won’t even go the doctor for treatment ~ makes you wonder who they are talking to. Of course, that could give you a glimpse into why over 45% of people with Bipolar Disorder will attempt suicide.
Now that I’ve enlightened you with such uplifting information, I’ll get to the reason for this post.
Most of you know that I suffered a severe depression last year that lead to months of suicidal thoughts and a great deal of physical pain. By the time the episode had retreated I no longer had a job (not a bad thing, really). It is my firm belief that if we (the world at large) spoke openly about Mental Illness and treated it with the same compassion that we treat other illnesses, my relapse would have been avoided. Sadly, stigma about Mental Illness remains strong.
That’s why I am fighting to Eradicate the Shame, Blame and Toxic Niceness surrounding Mental Illness. I am working with the local chapter of the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) to help educate the world. Here is where I need your help.
NAMI is hosting their 6th annual Walk and I’m writing to ask you to sponsor me or join me if you can.
I have always been very open about my Bipolar Disorder but most people are not as Loud and Proud as I am and that is a shame.
Thanks for your time.
And remember, when life becomes a rollercoaster, sit in the front seat, throw your hands in the air and enjoy the ride.
Waving Wildly from the Front Seats,
Bipolar Chick
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