Jeff Marsh Photography

I find my fellow species a curious lot. Having bipolar brings into sharp relief the yawning abyss of ignorance of mental health.

Usually, this is, simply, a matter of not wanting to know. Don’t be surprised, this is most often the case within our own families.

Bipolar, as with all mental illnesses, is not so different to any other chronic illnesses or injuries. You can see the effects of asthma, for example, and treat it. Same with bipolar.

It comes down, really, to approach. If you approach mental illness with angst you will be blinded by its simplicity. As with the asthmatic, certain things need to be taken into account. That goes without saying. But it ain’t rocket surgery.

Like a long term, chronic, knee injury, we need support. We need some allowance made. But we don’t bite. Surprisingly, some of us are even smart.

Education. It is incumbent upon us, as people with mental illness to educate our family and friends. It is also up to you, our family and friends to learn a little about us, too. Just as you approach life with an asthmatic or someone in chronic pain, so to we have an approach you should take.

I hope I have answered a few questions. I pray that I have raised many more in your mind.

Jeff.