I have decided to reblog this post of mine from World Suicide Prevention day (September 10, 2016) because I believe that the stigma surrounding mental illness is a two-way street. People who haven’t had to deal with having any mental illness themselves or watch someone close to them go through it don’t understand and at times don’t want to understand. Likewise, those of us dealing with mental challenges often become afraid to talk about it which doesn’t help those around us deal with it any better.
It isn’t easy to talk about things like suicide and breakdowns. However, we need to get the conversations flowing. That’s what Bell’s “Let’s Talk” is all about.
Lydia!
Trigger Warning: Discussion of suicide and bipolar episodes
To honor Blahpolar (Ulla) who recently passed away, and today being World Suicide Prevention Day, I have decided it is time to tell a part of my story that, while it might not be easy to read, may hopefully help others.
I am hoping it might help the general population understand better the complexity of mental illness and that there are a lot of gray areas.
I also hope that it may help people dealing with bipolar, depression or any mental issue realize that they are not alone.
I have tried to keep it as light as possible and I will give you a spoiler – it all has a very happy ending!
On the surface, I had what seemed to be a normal childhood; however, it was filled with a lot of heartaches which helped to mold me and feed on…
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Being Lydia! 
I find it very good, that you are able to tell your story, Lydia 🙂
This might help others to understand, that is possible to learn to live with mental illness.
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Thank you, Irene. There is risk in sharing things like this but if it can help even just one person then it is truly worth it!
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I agree so much.
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I’m glad you were able to post this. Breaking down stigma is always important, especially with so much hate and confusion in the world today. Well done, Lydia. I loved reading about your bravery.
– BipolarandHerDog
https://bipolarandherdog.wordpress.com/
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Thank you for your encouragment.
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