Hi everyone! Most people out there know me for my work in the SPD Community through my blog, The Gift, as well as my books and my Website. I am now embarking on another area that is close to my heart: those living with bipolar disorder. Those closest to me know that my mother suffered with this disorder her entire life. The most devestating part about her disorder was that she never sought treatment. We watched her slowly slip away from us and be ripped apart from the tug-of-war between mania and depression until she passed away at a young age of 54.
Most of the reasons for her never seeking treatment have to do with the stigma many put on those who suffer with mental illness. We never made her get the help she needed--none of us were strong enough to take on that responsibility. Instead, we cleaned her messes, covered up what she did when she was manic and never spoke about it.
Like a White Elephant in the middle of the room we all pretended wasn't there, her problems grew bigger until it was difficult to ignore them any longer. We ALL suffered with her but hers was much more painful. And it was all so pointless.
This blog is to help raise awareness for those suffering with bipolar, those caring for someone with bipolar or for those who simply care about someone with it. Awareness breeds understanding and that's so important. Perhaps, one day, there will no longer be a stigma attached to those suffering with mental illness. Then people--like my mother--will feel no shame in seeking treatment.
This blog is for those who can't, or won't speak for themselves.
the WHITE ELEPHANT Pages
When you purchase Chynna's books, you're helping a child in crisis.
A portion of every book sale goes directly to Chynna's favorite charity, Zebra House. Click the zebra to learn more about them and how they're helping kids in crisis be all they're meant to be.
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