Michael Brinker

from Griffith, IN

Never before has a radio story brought such an emotional reaction from me. When I was 17, I was diagnosed with bipolar disease by my family doctor. I had always suffered from massive mood swings and deep depression. As each point was presented in the radio story, I found myself really coming to terms with the fact that this is what I have.

I refused to take medication, even after I was admitted to a mental ward of a local hospital for suicidal thoughts I shared with a therapist. I am glad to find out that I am not the only person who was faced with it during school.

Thank you for helping people understand this problem, so others don’t have to suffer.

Looking back, what could have been done at the time to improve the situation? Treatment, medication, a different approach, or understanding from others around you?

Looking back, it probably would have been advisable to do some treatment over my slew of therapists. I, myself, never wanted to accept my problem and therefore, refused to take medication.

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