“I’ve struggled with what I thought were anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember.
It was only about 3 years ago I sought help, at which time I trialed at least a dozen anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications to no avail.
I’ve had “behavioural issues” going back to childhood that was always swept under the rug, and I didn’t feel that my antidepressants were addressing my rage, my severe mood swings and actually tended to make these things worse.
Being afraid of who you’re going to wake up as is a terrible experience. Not being able to control your moods is unbearable.
It wasn’t until recently that after a visit to the psych hospital I was diagnosed bipolar type 2 and started a mood stabilizer med.
For the first time, I feel in control of myself. The meds in conjunction with weekly therapy both 1:1 and group, I’m learning to navigate my new diagnosis and feel hopeful and optimistic for the first time.
My advice to anyone struggling with mental health issues is to PLEASE get help and don’t stop demanding the help you deserve until you receive it. It will save your life!”
