Something I am Proud Of:

A victory of mine while having this diagnosis is that I got married, held my job for over a year and love it, bought a house, got a dog, and managed to maintain a lot of stability through it all. My biggest victory is knowing I need to take my medications to make this all possible, and of course in general take care of myself.

Advice for Newly Diagnosed:

My advice to the newly diagnosed is to become as knowledgeable about your symptoms, warning signs, what helps both medications and other things like keeping a consistent sleep schedule and exercise routine. It is also so important to not see your diagnosis as “who you are” but just a part of who you are, that you’re a full, wonderful, human.