At the age of 29, I was diagnosed with Bipolar disorder. I was hospitalized for four months straight. During that time I received extensive treatment. The doctors tried countless combinations of medications; none of which worked properly.
One day a fine physician Dr. Harold Lenhardt came up with the right combination of medications. One day shy of my 30th birthday I was released from White Pine Psychiatric Hospital. It was one of the best days of my life. During my hospitalization, I had tremendous support from my family and friends. I came to the realization that I had a chemical imbalance in my brain that was going to need constant nurturing with medication and therapy.
Once I was released I began intensive therapy twice a week. I had a wonderful support system with my parents helping me on a daily basis. Once I integrated back into a normal lifestyle, I went back to work a full-time job and reacquainted myself with my life passions. I began to show Morgan Show horses again. I also started to do fun activities again and live a normal lifestyle.
Even though I was able to continue a normal lifestyle, I still need to take medication to stabilize the chemical imbalance in my brain for the rest of my life. At some points, I struggled with this. After learning that many successful people have struggled with the same mental health issue, I became ok with it. Not a day goes by that I don’t take my medication. I know it’s essential for living a healthy lifestyle!
The months and years that have followed leading up to today have not been easy. It is a constant struggle but knowing there is a life beyond the four walls of a locked down facility of where I was at 24 years ago is enough to keep me pressing on by taking one day at a time. Making the most of each day.
So if I can impart one thing with you it’s that you too can live a happy, healthy, and thriving life with Bipolar disorder. Please do not let your diagnosis handicap you. You are given this one life. What you make of it is a daily choice. Choose to make it the best one ever!
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Guest Blogger Melissa Loubert
Melissa is 53 years old and married to Tracey. She is the proud step-mother to three Children: Dennis, Lynn, and Kacey. She owns and operates a Health coaching business called ‘Living to Your Fullest Potential.’ In her spare time, Melissa enjoys spending time with her family and friends, horseback riding, reading, traveling, exercising, and exploring boutiques and new shops. She loves getting involved in fun new activities. A day never goes by that you can’t find her enjoying a great cup of coffee with a smile on her face!
