Bipolar disorder and ignorance….

I used to hear these comments a lot before I was diagnosed. (I still hear some of them now!)

• Why can’t Julie just settle down?
  Why is Julie always doing things that make her sick?
  What is Julie’s problem?
• Why is Julie so weird?

They were often said to my mom.

My mom and I both know what to say now- we have educated everyone we know about the illness. The Health Cards helped as they educated her first.

Now, I see it as an educational/informational opportunity.

Here is what I say:

I know my behavior seems odd… (fill in the behavior here).  It’s normal for people with bipolar disorder to be this way- most of us have trouble with… (fill in the problem here!) We try hard to function in a normal way, but just like someone with a physical illness like (choose your illness!) we have so many darn challenges. I love the books by… (Julie!) I think you would find some interesting info about bipolar disorder that can help you see that I’m not weird, I just have a weird illness.

**

Then it’s up to them to either remain ignorant or support you. You’ve done your best. I’ve found that almost everyone responds to this in a positive way unless they have their own mood issues they are not addressing….

Julie

PS: My books Loving Someone with Bipolar Disorder and Take Charge of Bipolar Disorder have specific sections for family members. If you can get them to read the books, life will be a lot easier for you!