Our stories
Would you like to tell your own story? Some people find writing and sharing their story cathartic in many ways. It can clarify and validate your experience, and also let others know that they are not alone in their experiences.
We’d love to hear from you.
John’s story
“When I started reading this book, I realised, “My God! – this is me!” I ticked almost every box in the questionnaire, so I immediately consulted the doctors. When I calmed down I was actually pleased with the bipolar diagnosis as it explained my roller coaster life.”
Journey in the Highlands – by John
“Racing thoughts are another strong symptom of mine. So it’s “bing!!”- and it’s 2:00am. Sometimes I go for a walk through the streets in the dark, and when I get back some time later, I find that I cannot remember how far or where I’ve walked.”
Joy’s story
” I had to be physically removed from my home and was locked up in a psychiatric ward in hospital as an involuntary patient. There is a lot about that time I can’t remember but I do know I did a lot of singing and dancing whilst I was there.”
Michael’s story
“It is not easy describing this sometimes-evil merry-go-round. Most people in their lives grow up, and mature as they get older, but I have found in my life I have gone around in circles as I have gone through life.”
Nat’s story
“Fighting to get yourself heard is crucial. Without that key, correct diagnosis, your chances of finding an effective treatment are much slimmer.”
Paul’s ECT diary
“I have just had my first treatment of ECT – electro-shock therapy. I had it at around 7.30 and it is now 9. I am wearing purple underwear and multi-coloured socks that do not match and I am typing at my desk in a room at the Perth Clinic.”
Paul Robertson’s story of mania
“I have a huge swelling feeling growing in the back of my head, reaching forward in grasping fibrillated and soggy claws. I know this feeling, frenetic as it is, coiled and sprung and filled up with sand. It is MANIA”
Samantha J’s Story
“I also developed a skill to explode the sun with my watch if I aimed the reflection at it. More than a few super evil villains would like that one.”
Sue’s story
“He can now communicate much clearer, which became a real issue as no one could understand what he was saying, and he no longer shakes uncontrollable when he drinks a cup of coffee.”
The Bipolar Toolbox – By Anna
” It could be that you take extra ME time, by reading your favorite book, eating the most delicious cake without feeling guilty, listening to your favorite music, painting, running – what ever centres you and calms you down.”
The holes in my pockets
“Overall, I’m a generous person. I like to buy well-chosen gifts for friends and family, but when I’m elevated I go completely overboard.”
Thirty Seven years
“My health professionals also help me greatly. Sometimes I wish there was just one tablet to take to fix everything with no side-effects, and one professional to see, when I needed to. However, I think that is unlikely in the near future.”