Today, I am so filled with appreciation for an event that happened yesterday.  I posted the following on my facebook page last night:

"I got asked today why I'm ok sharing about my bipolar disorder on Facebook for all the world to see.  Well, here's my answer.  It's not easy.  It's not going to win me a popularity contest or get me guys.  But I know the statistics.  I know that one in four adults suffer, most in silence, with a mental illness.  So that means that for every four of my Facebook friends, one of them is struggling.  I don't want them to feel alone."

I wrote this sincerely and from my heart.  And the response left me in awe.  Friends from all parts of my life, from childhood, to high school, to college, to my jobs poured out their hearts with support. They "liked" my post.  They commented on my post.  They shared.  They thanked me for my bravery. 

I'm honored.  But, I also hope that this will encourage others that you don't have to suffer in silence.  I hope that it helps people to realize that having a mental illness is not a character flaw.  It is a chemical imbalance in the brain, and it can be treated.  And, one can go on to live an amazing life in spite of, and BECAUSE of mental illness. 

Today, I awoke feeling proud to be Bipolar and Blessed. 

Be Well,
~Emily