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Just a few weeks ago, I was home watching Oprah on television. I was astonished. She did a show on manic-depression (aka bipolar disorder). To my surprise, my favorite soap opera star Maurice Bernard who plays Sonny on General Hospital was one of the guests.

I was shocked to learn that he suffers from manic-depression. He admitted on the show that during one of his episodes, he threatened to kill his wife, which resulted in a hospitalization. At this time he maintains his illness and his celebrity status. All the guests on that segment of Oprah were famous celebrities suffering from manic-depression.

I was enlightened to know that there’s plenty of famous individuals past and present suffering from manic depression. For instance, Van Gogh had manic-depression. During one of his manic episodes he cut off his ear. Actor and comedian Robin Williams has manic-depression. We all probably know that story of Jane Pauley (visit www.newyorkcityvoices.org for more on her). You’re not alone. There are individuals all over the world suffering from manic-depression/bipolar disorder.

As for myself, I realize that I am not alone. I suffer from bipolar disorder and so does my 17-year-old son. He was though to have ADD and as he grew up, he was diagnosed with bipolar. He has been hospitalized for manic episodes at different children’s psychiatric hospitals. Did he inherit this illness from me? How can a mother and son who both have bipolar disorder relate to each other? I love him unconditionally and I will continue to join him through our struggle with bipolar.

All these years I have been classified as schizophrenic. Now I am classified as having bipolar. I have to live with my ups and downs.

More individuals are being diagnosed with bipolar every day. I call it the “bipolar club.” I told my son that we will stay strong and deal with our ups and downs like any other individual out there who’s dealing with bipolar disorder. I don’t only deal with my own bipolar, but my son’s too. He resides at a behavioral center awaiting placement in a residential facility. I will always be there for him—that’s why it’s important to keep my illness stabilized and take control of my ups and downs. My son is my blessing from God.

Bipolar disorder/manic-depression has really enlightened me. I learn more about it everyday. I find it intriguing and fascinating. It can be a very complex mental disorder. With proper medications and treatments, you can live a healthy and productive life.

I feel fortunate to be able to share with consumers, advocates, and individuals some enlightening things on bipolar/manic-depression, including some historical and educational facts relating to the illness.

To all individuals living with this illness, stay well, strong and positive. Don’t give up hope.