Bipolar affective disorder is a difficult lifelong illness to live with. From young I knew there was something different about be. I knew life would be difficult. As I developed in to a teenager I had problems with my behaviour and feelings and would abuse substances to get through each day. I finally accepted my life was coming to an end and I attempted suicide. I survived luckily and made some improvements, I went to university and trained to be a nurse. This was a good settled time in my life. Through life stressors I have had highs and lows and which I need support at times. I am not afraid to say that I need support. Once you start to open up to professionals you have already took a big step. It is not easy but the main thing you realise is that you are not alone and you can become well and live a pretty ordinary life with the right treatment and support

Just because you illness is invisible does not mean that it does not exist

If in doubt then shout. You are not alone, no matter what you think or feel and always remember...your voice is the loudest.

Keep fighting warriors. We are all in this together

You are the master of your thoughts