Dear Irma and Joan,

The two everlasting moods that make up my Bipolar Disorder. You are not discussed enough. When you are discussed, well, it is under some kind of punchline or stigma. My mental illness is not a joke, a plea for attention, or a stigma. Yes, someone with Bipolar Disorder can function in society. Although functioning can be difficult sometimes, it is not a zero level of functioning or a one hundred level of functioning. Unless it is. Then, great.

I can be a human. I can go to college. I can hold down a job or two. I can do all of this and be treated for Bipolar Disorder. I am tired of feeling defined by another person's perception of my illness.

Mental health is a serious part of being a successful human. Just because my mental health works and is achieved differently, does not mean I am a less ambitious person compared to a non-Bipolar humans. Hearing or thinking that I am flighty or too unpredictable or not rooted in my diagnosis enough is not okay.

My mental health should be my top priority and it is being clouded by thoughts and people who might not take me seriously. Granted, there are people who do take me seriously in regard to my illness, but sometimes action is the proof of sincerity, and nothing feels sincere. So, where does that leave us, Irma and Joan? A headspace is clear, just for you in my world of creativity, thoughts, school work, and perpetual tiredness. Writing to you in hopes that someone who needs to know they aren't alone can read.

Here I am. Bipolar, and human.

Love,

Sarah