I was a paediatrician, passionate and ambitious. But life isn't linear and unexpected events are thrown at you. 

Having spent most of my career trying to hide my history of mental illness due to shame and professional repercussions, the mask I had perfected began to crack. Crumbling under the pressure of work, I developed burnout. This triggered a mental health crisis. I was suicidal, hopeless and helpless. Alone. 

After my diagnosis of type 2 bipolar, I searched online and found organisations like Doctors in Distress. I realised that thousands of doctors across the world struggle with their mental health. With support and treatment, they get better. 

So I reached out and got help. I created The Bipolar Doc, a handle that I use to tell my story, to share my experience so no health professional feels alone in the way I did. 

I am walking, running or swimming 5k every day in May. I am not a runner or particularly fit, but with your support, I will do this!