Something I am proud of in my journey:

I was diagnosed with bipolar type 1 when I was 14 years old. It took me a very long time to come to terms with my diagnosis. I had never heard of bipolar type 1. I am now 40 years old and I have had a very hard time due to my bipolar type 1. However, I have also had an amazing life despite my diagnosis. Bipolar type 1 is not my personality it is a mood disorder. I manage it with medication, healthy food, sleep and lots of exercise. Of course I have episodes mainly manic ones but I can now notice them early and the medical team I have around me know what to do. I have been hospitalized many times over the years but I always come out the other side stronger. Unfortunately you can do everything right but still fall into depression and go manic. Bipolar type 1 has shown me that anything is possible and to never give up. Bipolar type 1 is treatable and many people from all over the world live a happy productive life.

My biggest victory in having bipolar type 1 is working at the hospital where I get treated as a peer support worker. I am fully qualified and am about to start a university course in peer support at the City of London University.

Message for those who are newly diagnosed:

My message to anyone diagnosed is not to panic. You can live a great life with bipolar 1. But be aware when you are going manic or depressed. Some of the greatest minds, poets and actors/actresses have bipolar type 1. Use it to your advantage. Make sure you have a strong support network, family/friends. It can be daunting being newly diagnosed but trust me you can live a successful fulfilling life!