For every setback we face, there is a comeback in grace. For every dark episode we are challenged to overcome, there is a story of survival and strength.
There are stories behind mental illness that many never hear. People fear the conversation. Why? They have ‘heard a rumor” or saw someone with bipolar on the news. I am tired of it.
Stigmas must dissolve now. Our healthcare system within the United States and around the world is inadequate and leaves many out there alone in their battle. Mental illness is not a ticket to leave Christ or his church for fear of ridicule or shame!
When the medical world seemed stagnant in helping me with my bipolar, I chose to get honest with God! I brought the truth of my mental health into the center of my faith. I had no idea what I was doing was uncommon and generated fear.
Personally, I was confused. We ask God to reach down in times of physical health crisis, financial crisis, social crisis, but when it came to mental health, unless depression accompanied a trauma or tragedy, it was the oddity no one wanted to talk about. Discussions involving anxiety, medication, bipolar, and any other disorder were secrets and things ‘we just don’t talk about’.
These are just a few examples of the impact mental illness has on our society. Not only on a national level, but on a global level, these numbers are staggering.
- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reports suicide is the 10th leading cause of death
- According the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 18% of the US adult population is affected by an Anxiety Disorder
- Statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health report that 4.4% of US adults experience bipolar disorder
I am here to talk about the reality as a Christian living with Bipolar Disorder. My hope is to flash a small light through my faith to those who suffer with a mental health deficiency. There is no shame here, no holding back the raw and authentic truth, and there is no judgement to those who choose to share their story with me.
Follow along with my journey through the maze of mental health. Awareness is key, and truth is a must!
