Hello, my name is Aussie Ravandi. I am a 25 year old college student living with and managing bipolar disorder. It took several years to be able to say that. I was finally diagnosed with bipolar disorder and generalized anxiety disorder at the age of 19, after years of confusion. My struggles with this disorder have had devastating effects on several aspects of my life. My bipolar disorder manifested mostly as full blown mania. I knew around the age of 16 that something was wrong. I am going to mention more about these struggles throughout my blogs. While on my journey to stability, I have learned many tips, tricks, and coping skills that I am eager to share with others. My life revolves around helping people living with mental illness now. I am a facilitator for DBSA (Depression Bipolar Support Alliance) young adults group here in the area of Houston, Texas. I am in college for psychology and want to focus on bipolar disorder. 

I have built around me a support system. I have a caring boyfriend that has stood by my side through my illness for many years now. I am close with my family as well, who are now able to understand what has been going on with me this whole time. I have two sassy rescue cats whom I adore! I would love to have a dog but my apartment limits me. I try my best to stay active and I love listening to music, laughing at silly internet pictures, viewing modern art, and animals. My favorite drink is sweet tea! I would like to share with you guys that I have a big sense of humor, it’s one of the ways I cope. However, I do take this illness very seriously. 

I genuinely believe that recovery can take a lot of work, it may be a slow process for some, but eventually a healthy and stable life is possible. It may not be today or tomorrow. It may not be the same as him or her next to you, but that’s ok. I hope for readers to embrace and accept their journey. Have patience with yourself as you learn how to live with an illness. I hope through my blogs you can get some hope, encouragement, inspiration, or even just some information. Thank you for reading! Please leave me feedback in comments and let me know what you are thinking or how you feel! If you have any questions, feel free to ask. No question or comment is too small or too big. 

“The strongest people are not those who show strength in front of us, but those who win battles we know nothing about.”