I am not a doctor, psychologist, or therapist, but I am a mental health patient. I've been one since 2014 and, given the success of the treatment and management of my bipolar disorder, I am a pretty good one.
But I wasn't always a good one.
The first time I reached out for help with my mental health was in 2009, just as my steps down the bipolar rabbit hole became giant leaps down the bipolar rabbit hole. Just as I was starting down the road that turned my life upside down. Just before I ventured towards turning my life upside down and ending up in jail. Just before I caused my family, my friends, and everyone else in my life (not to mention the criminal justice system) a lot of trouble and pain.
This episode is what I wish someone had told me back in 2009.
I recorded this in response to questions I heard after speaking to a Criminal Law class at Loyola University School of Law, in a class taught by my dear friend Dean Strang (you may know him from the Netflix show "Making a Murderer"). Actually, it's a response to a question I often get when I talk to groups about my mental illness (I kinda hate that term, because it sounds a little victim-ish). What would have helped you when you first started having problems?
I started having symptoms much, much earlier. Like, 1990s earlier (yes, I am that old...deal with it...Gen X proud). And it did cause issues through the years. But it wasn't until 2009 that those issues turned into real, tangible, ugly problems. I can only hope that this episode can help at least one person from going down that super freaking bumpy road.
I'd love to hear what you think of the show. What did you like? What do you think could have been added? And, do you have any topics you want covered on future episodes? You care reach out here and let me know.
Thank you so much for listening! The growth of The Recombobulated Life is as amazing as it is humbling.
Matt
