Today's post on Ask a Bipolar was really difficult for me to swallow. I feel for Erika and all the scary things she has been through. And at the same time I feel like I should stop complaining about my issues with Bipolar as they are nothing compared to hers.
I sometimes feel the same about PDog when I hear what other parents go through with their children. Where as he is very difficult, we seem to have his illness well under control in comparison to most other children.
Now don't get me wrong, I am thankful for these things, but the lovely Catholic in me feels guilty that other people have it worse than us. I'm not sure I can make anyone understand this, but it just is what it is.
So my support goes out to Erika and all the other people who suffer from severe Bipolar and/or worse conditions. I feel for you and hope you are all able to find the treatment you need.
5 comments:
I know what you mean, sometimes when we hit a good stride with our son and all is well, I feel guilty posting about it knowing that for others it is far from good.
I know I can't make you feel any differently; but I don't see you that way at all. Our experiences have been different, not unequal. In a lot of ways, I have it better than you: diagnosed early, somewhat under control in time for high school, apart of an online community that gets it now (instead of later), and with an insight into what is going on. You were left suffering without an answer well into your twenties, and barely kept your head above water in crucial points of your life. At least, as I crawl into high school, I will know what is going on and will have help. You didn't have any of that.
Being a 'legitimate' Bipolaree isn't about severity, it is about how it has impacted us. If it has been in a negative way, even if positives are thrown in, then you have Bipolar Disorder. With every person suffering from this disease, we all have experiences that are worse than the next diagnosed person. I know I don't have the power to change your mind about yourself; but I believe you have been through so much pain and are in every way a legitimate Bipolaree, and I hope you can try to shut out anybody who tells you otherwise - yourself included.
Hugs to you. I'm here if you need me.
With Love;
Erika
Hi Marybeth-- Your blog is so touching!! And yes, the low-carb ice cream TOTALLY doesn't count.
Thank you so much Erin!!! It's great to have a place to vent these frustrations!
Thanks for visiting!!!
Marybeth
Ask a Bipolar
Post a Comment