If you have cancer, heart disease, or just about any "real" medical problem, people treat you with kindness, and that kindness helps you get well. Friends and family will sit by your bedside and hold your hand as you recover. Even a stroke or a brain injury that causes significant long term mental impairment is tolerated. Not so when you are sick with a mental illness, such as bipolar disorder, instead people can be rather cruel. "Snap out of it!" people will say, "It's all in your head." That isn't kind, and it doesn't help.
There is no need to reward me for my bad behavior. If I'm off my rocker today, then by all means, let me know. But, if you want me to get better, a little kindness in your voice goes a long way. It is easy to forget that each of us has the ability to make a difference in the lives of others. Sometimes a smile, a compliment, or some words of encouragement can make a significant difference.
It's easy, even for professionals that are paid to help us, to feel disdain towards us when treatments fail and symptoms return. Rest assured that we do not want to be sick. Gently remind us of the current reality if we have lost site. Your words, and your tone of voice are important.
Not everyone with bipolar disorder will be successful, but I think everyone has the potential to get better. Getting better is a choice, made not only by the person with bipolar, but by their support system as well. How much are you willing to do?
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2 comments:
Hi Amy - I just want to say that your blog is absolutely wonderful!! I love what you are doing to help break the stigma, and to help give hope to others.
Your most recent post about "Kindness" is so true! I don't have bipolar, but some of my friends, my spouse, and in-laws do. I love them all, and truly believe in "love", "kindness", and "faith" being the ultimate treatments!
Keep it up!! It's people like you who can help break the fear so many people have of it.
Hi Amy , After reading your blog, I felt like I was jumping out of the text! Being bipolar is so incredibly difficult,and just to know I am not alone is so comforting.My biggest difficulty with this illness is that I isolate myself from most aspects of life, although I am known to people as being an open, friendly, kind, and a funny person. It is like I put on a different face when I am around people. I am deeply SAD inside and lonely, but not too many pepole know it, except my mother and husband. I am hoping I can grow into a healthier person, emotionally and mentally, by connecting with people on this ... thank you for starting this blog. I agree with Candace ... Kindness and faith are important " ingredients " to help break the stigma that is the barrier to finding success with this illness.
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