September 8th, 2010

23 views

Yes, despite the overcast weather, I am feeling better and less plagued by my demons than I was just a couple of days ago. The morning depression is not nearly as severe as it has been.

One thing my fellow bipolars like to say is that "it could be worse, we could be schizophrenics." I got a sampling of the schizophrenic point of view while I was recovering from a particularly deep depressive episode a few years back. I had gone down to a "clubhouse" so I could hang with other people who had mental illness. Company mattered so I happily took up the offer to play a game of Scrabble. Because I was new, the other players asked my diagnosis. When I told them that it was bipolar disorder, they identified themselves having schizophrenia.

"I'm so glad that I don't have bipolar disorder," they said to me. "I don't think I could handle the wild ups and downs. It's easier being schizophrenic."

All mental illnesses have a bad rap because of Hollywood depictions of we sufferers as being homicidal maniacs. The truth is that we're more likely to be victims of violent crime than perpetrators unless we also happen to be substance abusers. People without mental illness who are alcoholics or drug addicts are likewise more likely to be violent, so why aren't movies and televisions showing that? Lot of money in liquor is my theory.

So what myths do you combat?
  • Doddsy

    #1

    Reply

    I have extreme Social Anxiety Disorder so I am always seen as an introverted, impersonal, or even rude individual which couldn't been further. The anxiety just gets in the way of group conversations and introducing myself to people.

    I loved the blurb by the way, very nice read :)

    September 8th, 2010

  • Hope_Moskal

    #2

    Reply

    I'm just glad it's not 90 degrees outside.

    September 8th, 2010

  • SmilingAri22

    #3

    Reply

    Funny enough, I was discussing just this issue today with my mommy! We were saying how because I am wealthy and shy, people think I am stuck up and think I'm better than everyone. But then, once they get to know me, they see I'm an absolute mush and end up taking advantage of my money and my knack for not arguing when they ask for something because I'm quiet. D'oh!

    September 8th, 2010

  • drippydrop

    #4

    Reply

    Yeah, it's hard living in a society that unfairly judges us. I often don't mention I'm bipolar for this reason. :( if I can trust someone, I'll talk about it and then I'm very open. But I keep that to myself around strangers. There are a lot of things about myself that I have to guard.. I'm also bisexual and an athiest. Some people would want to hurt me for being who I am. It's a sad thing.

    I am so glad you are feeling better!! :D

    September 9th, 2010

  • rawedge

    #5

    Reply

    I try to over come the "Nice guys come last" myth but unfortunately it seems to be true at the moment

    September 9th, 2010

Joel Sax is a 53 year old male from United States.

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