Taking Off the Mask of Bipolar; Remove the stigma from mental illness | Jame Geathers | TEDxAugusta

[@alexisretzepis8502]

"overcommiting myself when i was manic and failing to meet basic commitments when i was depressed"

[@Dr.JudeAEMasonMD]

This! This condition makes me much more “flaky” than I really would like to be. Now that I am living well, I am making an intentional effort to properly allocate my finite resources, and my time/energy are my most valuable resources.

[@DawnWriter16]

well said

[@jesswhite8845]

Same here.

[@blindbat6]

Im coming clean with my doctor....everything you said I relate 100%. No more shame thank you so much.

[@aya_____7921]

Hope you're doing good now!

[@pab4435]

Steven Arthur I’m here because of beginning the same process in the last month. I hope it’s going well for you

[@BeingBetter]

Here Is am looking for videos on bipolar and I find this comment. Good for you Stephen!

[@greenchai9177]

I really hope youre doing ok

[@va2773]

Amen

[@Jo-lp1px]

This was beautifully executed and accurately describes what the battle with this disorder is about. Inspiring!

[@kaitlynowens7762]

I have type two. My worst manic episode is when I was working a 12 hour shift on nights, went home, stayed up and then went back into work and worked 12-16 more hours. On my feet. I finally fell asleep after a couple hours after being home. My worst depressive episode was when I was in nursing school and would think of driving my car off of a cliff everyday on my way home. There was nothing I could tell myself except the fact that I was ill and I knew that at some point I’d be back on a high.

[@jamesegeathers]

I can totally relate. Keep fighting. One minute at a time.

[@everythingelle6450]

Omg I can relate! I checked myself into a hospital instead of driving my car off a cliff! I’m now on medication

[@sereneamani1713]

@@everythingelle6450 I hope you are doing better and well

[@sanchezmd605]

I also have type two. :( Sending hugs!!

[@sergkapitan2578]

Be strong!!! God loves you!!! Berdyaev N "On the destiny of man"

[@Jxvr25]

I’m diagnosed with bi polar. It makes things harder for sure but we got this. Count your blessings

[@Dr.JudeAEMasonMD]

Girl I am still using the last of 20 cases of disposable contact lenses I ordered in 2013!! The impulsive spending, ugh…it’s a wonder I have never had to declare bankruptcy. I just wish I had been diagnosed sooner. Knowledge is power. But trauma without Revelation is insanity. I have bipolar 1 and I intend to live well every day for the rest of my life. l.i.v.e well🧬 Be. Bālãnçï™ 💎

[@SvintMvrcus]

I just got diagnosed with type one bipolar disorder last week. I was actually really offended when an ex of mine told me I should get tested for it but after reading up on it I was amazed at how accurate everything was. Thank you so much for getting up and sharing this stuff, I still haven’t told my family

[@You-k3h7x]

God bless you and your ex

[@moonmama588]

It is so reliving to finally hear someone say they are struggling the same things I have been through. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am emotional and inspired by your bravery.

[@billiezamora9582]

God forgives everything so don't ever feel guilty about something just ask forgiveness and move on trust me don't want to do all the past

[@shehlaazim5859]

I am the one who is struggling.on medicines

[@nidiaotero6042]

I was in denial, now I’m on the road of acceptance, trying to talk to God and myself and just knowing I will get through this, I’m strong, I’m wise and im a fighter. Nothing will ever break me!

[@sxhem5889]

My friend's mom who is a psychiatrist accepted to receive me for free and about 2 months of weekly sessions she diagnosed me with bipolar 2 but because I was going to her sessions without my parents knowing and only being 14 at the time I couldn't afford the medications and I can't talk about it to my parents because they don't believe in mental illness, they just say that it's for crazy people . So here I am, 16 still having bipolar 2, failed numerous attempt of suicide, still doesn't know how to calm my crisis, having ptsd crisis during the night and waking up with huge scars on my neck and torso because of my nightmares and barely hanging on school . But hey like someone said one day " everyday may not be good but there is good in everyday"

[@lesegokupa9251]

Stay strong. You are brave to even survive a single day

[@kaylaboo7100]

Please have your physicians Speak to your parents . They may not believe you- but they may believe a professional. Bipolar is real and is a chemical Imbalance, ; It needs to be treated as an illness just like people with seizures, heart disease .. Praying your parents will open their eyes and Support You

[@TomoshikaSun]

I just got diagnosed with bipolar 2 today. I'm scared about what it means but this video and the comments here make me hopeful. Thank you all

[@samb1125]

I hope you're still staying hopeful. It can be scary at times, but you are strong! We've got this

[@TomoshikaSun]

@@samb1125 We Are strong!

[@kaylacain5707]

do you guys know of a bipolar support group we could all join?

[@kaylacain5707]

@@samb1125 do you guys know of a bipolar support group we could all join?

[@pbufh]

I also have type 2. Its very fun.

[@mydogdiditnoti6411]

Remember there are many types of bipolar disorder, and all people are different. This is her story not all of us as we are different battling with this disease. Applaud her for telling her story. Just remember all people are different. Stigma, ableisms, disrimination is still out here in society.

[@jamesegeathers]

Thank you so much for your response. You are absolutely right about the disease affecting each of us differently. I think that's one reason why it's so important to remove the stigma of mental illnesses. When we make assumptions of what a condition "should" look like we discount the suffering of those who fall outside of that box.

[@catalystcomet]

This help me cry, help me laugh, helped me think about my brothers suicide and helped me realize that even though I don't feel like I'm suicidal anymore, it's still in the back. It's still there. I'm on six different medications and I'm still here. I'm working on it, I'm working on myself. On some days it doesn't feel like I'm doing the best, but I am doing the best I can.

[@elenaspano5067]

this ted talk deserves way more views

[@carolinebearden6989]

Thank you for being so brave and sharing your story. This is really helping me accept my position as someone with bipolar.

[@tenascin]

I LOVE HER! She is so genuine and brave!!!

[@melissaconner9538]

Brought me to tears, thank you for speaking up. Bless you and I'm so glad you're still here.❤

[@briankee3730]

I am a clinician living with bipolar disorder. This is the best speech I have ever seen. Your bravery is inspiring. You have a reason to keep your head up and feel prideful. You owned this. Congratulations.

[@witneyskye5556]

You are a beautiful inspiration. I was diagnosed with Bipolar 1, rapid cycling, in my mid 30's. I am moved by your strength and honesty. I wish I could speak openly, as you do.

[@mila12hihi]

amazing speech. the line "i started to plan my life rather than my death" hit me hard. let's try not to give up

[@afreennasseer4417]

well it hurts when you're own loved ones thinks you have a wrong wiring in the brain, and treats you as a person who needs to be kept away. I feel hopeless due to this

[@8v71buses]

Very true and I can relate. This is why I’m very restricted on what I tell him about being bipolar because they’ll never understand why I’m the way I am sometimes especially one of my brothers who is an opinionated narcissist

[@danicalemaster8313]

You know... I can relate to this yo a degree.. not so much now a days but I do know what you mean. Fun fact. The saying "blood is thicker than water" is NOT referring to your family. Blood is referring to "blood brothers" (friends) the people who CHOOSE to be in your life and you CHOOSE to be in theirs. The "water" is actually referring to the womb. Yes they may have the same DNA but they were forced to have you in their life and vice versa. But you can always CHOOSE to not keep them around. Just a thought..

[@According2Deejay]

Thanks for sharing your personal struggle.

[@debblackmore7460]

Two my beautiful nephews took their lives its mental health they didn't wanna die they just was tired battling mental health speak out dont suffer in silence you got this your the winner not mental health sending luck hugs prayers xx

[@queenmisanthrope]

This is beautiful. I was diagnosed at 16 but have been medication free for 3 years now.

[@diedraruff65]

What I wish is that there was a 24 hr consulting something for people. Alot of times people need to talk to someone who has been in their shoes but have over come. I wish that for my Son😩

[@queenmisanthrope]

Diedra Hurdle-Ruff I wish the best for you and your son and that’s a great suggestion. The only thing that I can think of is the suicide hotline. I read the Icarus Project and that helped me greatly

[@angelapedraza37]

Is it possible to live without medication, considering that is bipolar disorder?

[@nbzawadi]

How did you do it?

[@wildflowers9318]

thankyou for sharing this, i can relate to your story. i'm feel hopeless too, hearing someone shared their story really make my eyes teary.

[@jamesegeathers]

I know sometimes we feel alone fighting this fight but you are not alone! Keep fighting the fight!

[@joependergrass3042]

aaaaaahhhhhh.. I am still struggling with my diagnoses. Thanks for sharing yours, it has not gone unheard.

[@vannahedits]

ive never felt so understood in my life

[@WhenSerahWrites1991]

Bipolar 2, got bachelor degree in psychology (the highest score). Which means bipolars can do a lot.

[@muhammadibrahim4097]

bipolar 1, got mbbs degree in 2016.

[@shehlaazim5859]

Of course

[@Luchoeds]

I got my BS in Biomedical Science to I completely agree

[@sunidaye011110]

Thank you for your courage! I've been struggling with bpd2 for near 20 years and finally am on the path to the right medication.

[@kamal6f]

Hi all. Bravo Jame, love you for doing this. I have bipolar 1 and have had 6 cycles of mania and depression spread over last 18 years. I have realized that everyone's life sturggle with bipolar is different but there are parallels and similarities when it comes to living a bipolar life. I think one needs to give time to self as till the time you do not saturate the whole experience of struggle, you won't accept it. Acceptance is necessary to do disciplined care for the self coz only this can save people from ending their own lives. I also think, spirituality is the way for all those who have bipolar as it is becomes all the more important for us to find our true self. We can't take any chances or else we are destined to not live our highest potential. For people with bipolar, living a simple ordinary life with peace completely detached with 'maya' is living life with highest potential.

[@JohnU2020]

You embody both courage and compassion in your speech. Bless you and thank you for sharing.

[@mountmeron267]

Thank you for sharing beautiful💟

[@kaylaboo7100]

Thank you for opening your heart and sharing your story - that took Humility

[@bipolarbeinganddoing8070]

This is beautiful and special and makes me feel less alone after my dx of bipolar, years ago. Thankyou so much for this wonderful talk x

[@Yuppie.Mike.]

I tell everyone I am bipolar it explains what's wrong with this there's no reason not to tell people. It explains why one day you're happy and working and why you call up and make some lame excuse for not showing up to work. there are so many of us you need to tell your friends and your family. Do not keep being bipolar a secret.

[@brongosportal3014]

I try not to mention it around my family, because they believe it's an excuse for not living up to 'basic expectations'

[@AbstruseDaPoet]

I like the way you summed it up and I actually came out and said it to my friends and family and it was liberating

[@adamcosgrove7433]

I love me , me children and me world. Its great having bi polar/ neuro diversity. You made me cry. Thank you. Love from Team Cosgrove.

[@sallybush6454]

I was diagnosed when I was 37...the world around me was closing in and I was so frightened...I built up the courage to see my doc who advised me to go into a mental health hospital...I was terrified...it changed my life ...it took me a while to adjust...to accept but as the meds was working people could see the difference I didn't tell anyone...now I'm 52...bipola will never go but it can be controlled...and trust me...I still have to keep trying...I have support and loved ...I have 3 grandkids...I'm so happy there not putting flowers on my grave but bringing me them to put in the vase that my kids bought me...and every time I feel sad I look at my vase ...it reminds me to keep on trying ...plz don't be ashamed reach out...I promise I truly promise u will not regret 💛 it.

[@centref0lds1]

This was truly inspirational...i was holding back the tears. Thank you for sharing with us your journey.

[@richcountyratrodsjrod2329]

Amen

[@nightmime6314]

She is such a beautiful lady, an inspiring story to reach out and get help

[@avcraig00]

I am praying for a family member to accept his diagnosis

[@sylina1077]

Thank you for your story!

[@btblueyez4u]

Thank you very much I was diagnosed last evening (finally) and appreciate all the information I can get my hands on

[@temekahudson2585]

Damn, everything she described I just talked to my therapist about a few days ago. I AM EXHAUSTED!

[@paulcomerford1]

well done Jame, I was diagnosed around the late 90's - Acceptance and Hope I am starting to be honest about my condition finally. Stay strong. Thank you.

[@Natbird_slay]

Thank you for sharing!!! Such a tough topic to discuss! 💗

[@kaylaboo7100]

Thank you for these amazing TED talk Videos- Priceless!

[@Kyle-vb3fz]

God bless you for coming forward with this. You seem like a beautiful woman inside and out.

[@Carlos-pp5ih]

Awsome speech!,so well said as your words are so powerful that anyone who is struggling with this illness can closely relate to you and hopefully build the courage from your experience and with you taking the mask off of bipolar is one of the strongest things to do in order to help yourself and many others who are stuck with the shameful stigma. keep up the great stuff!

[@jacquelynelder9207]

This was so powerful. Thank YOU!

[@pjcampacci7471]

last month I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. it is effecting my world at my job. I told my manager and dont know where to go from there

[@jamesegeathers]

Stay as strong as you can. Also, document everything. If you find that you're being mistreated because of your diagnosis or if they are discriminating against you contact the EEOC.

[@H.O.P.E222]

Wow this video has not enough views and wow there’s not much comments this is wild. This is how depressing it is I feel like not much people care at all about mental disorders like bipolar, the more difficult ones to understand get not enough attention

[@Ms-oh8gx]

thank you, your description is so accurate

[@richcountyratrodsjrod2329]

God bless her. Please dont judge or condemn us bi polar peeps. Choose life.

[@will-i-amt2094]

Awesome. . love how in-depth this video is truly passionate and Insiteful.

[@nazanvisions]

This was beautiful, thank you!!

[@oldandnew1234]

Thank you. We are not alone. I'm not hiding anymore.Nothing has ever made me feel like someone else truely understands. X Take care everyone. You are brave. Xx

[@alkasoli4002]

Bipolar ruined my life....everything I had

[@charlottestallion7513]

Hello I know exactly what you going through, i know of a doctor who can help you his Dr Isibor he helped my co-worker too with same problem....

[@debbiecaldwell-miller6160]

Thank you for sharing, keep being brave!

[@mredmond1107]

This is very informative, for someone who has just been diagnosed with this disease it really touches my heart.

[@dianejaramillo-gregory5689]

Powerful Thank you 🙏🏼

[@eddykuipers2971]

What a beautiful Kōrero (talk in NZ Maori) Bipolar is tough but can be managed. The important thing to acknowledge is that it’s always a work in progress. Eventually it all gets easier though 😊

[@whydoIneedthis_]

Thank you so much!

[@peacefult2491]

GOS BLESS YOU.

[@ashishgeorgemathew6034]

A big salute

[@healngwithhopeandempathy]

How have people coped through Covid? I have been through worst manic and depressed episodes ever. But paradigms are changing linking bp disorder to trauma. I miss my life before Covid I have never been more isolated or on suicide watch repeatedly. I find it hard to believe in hope, love or community. Everyday I think death would be a welcome relief from my isolation and lack of social connections and just love and affection I am trying to get into a program for wellness recovery and just have to resist the urge to od and stop my heart ❤️🙌 from beating and believe there is a better world 🌎 on the other side. Pray 🙏 for me.

[@eloisekendall1470]

I have prayed for you, I'm sending all my love your way spiritually, its been so hard since covid.

[@shubham_nigam]

This is what courage looks like. Wish all good things come in your life. And sometimes when you feel low, may you remember that, you are, so much more. :)

[@dionedavi]

So inspirational!

[@vasantipunchoo3699]

😢😢😢 I wish I had the courage to take off my mask too and say it bravely to free myself especially in front of my students. I battle sometimes to find the thoughts I need to express and sometimes they run all crammed together. I can't read a line sometimes and concentrate. But above all I m damn sure no one is ready out there to understand. Or this is what I feel. I need to be performant no matter what.

[@rickredmond9847]

I was recently diagnosed with Bipolar 1 with concurrent cognitive deficit features (ADHD) and also PTSD at age 55 (I am now 56) and I'm now undergoing treatment through the VA. Ironically enough, I am also a career mental health professional here in Chicago. The lifelong intense battle through life and the internal war with self are both real and often brutally arduous. Jame's story and testimony are poignantly riveting as well as empathetically resonating for many of us who are fellow survivors.

[@jesspraise35]

Beautiful!! Thank you so much for sharing your story.

[@rachanacitc]

Indeed courageous. Applause.. Love n healing vibes... sister 😍

[@staceygriego4108]

This is so authentic and relatable thank you 🙏

[@arricammarques1955]

Many artists have suffered from this illness. Monitor stressors and lifestyle.

[@queenj5308]

Wow what an inspiring talk! She is so brave and strong, I’m praying for her and everyone struggling with bipolar disorder. There is hope and healing, don’t give up. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@topgurl9313]

Beautifully explained. Thank you for sharing.

[@natalieduncan3791]

Thank you

[@ryproar11]

I have bipolar 2. I have faced the stigma, hatred, and people saying I was faking it. Social media made me stop caring and pit me into a deep depression that got me hospitalized. I posted this vid on Facebook to show what I have been going through for 20 years. Thank you for this presentation.

[@rick3839]

Very powerful video. My best friend suffers from BP1.

[@nadwajamil8063]

I give you all respect 🙏

[@pineymanuel2220]

Thank you, be well and live

[@johanneberube6682]

Thanks a lot for sharing 🌹💖

[@nimritjohal9797]

Thankyou for this!❤️

[@Theproductoflove]

Thank you, watching this has saved my life!

[@PraiseJesusOurKing]

Thank you! You are an angel to me thank you.

[@smorin1487]

Thanks for this awesome video, Jame. Thanks for your bravery. I also have bipolar disorder, though it's fairly mild now that I've been on meds and been in therapy for 11 years. But I did attempt suicide twice... once under the veil of hallucinations, and another after a terrible breakup. I continually strive to improve my friends and coworkers understanding of mental health. I also find it's helpful to think about ways bipolar can be a super-power of sorts. I enjoy when I get hypomanic and get a lot done, or show my passion. For me so much of it is about being balanced. "I hate being Bipolar, It's awesome!" - anonymous

[@craytondaniel7122]

You’re amazing, Jame, and an inspiration.

[@melstampz]

Thank You

[@surija3935]

Thank you so much for sharing your story!

[@neilstubbings2124]

Very brave. Well done.

[@danieladamata5574]

I have some much fear to tell people I'm bipolar. Because this is so stigmatizing. When they ask why I take medicine everyday I always say it's for depression (with a lot of fear too). I'm so afraid at being seen as less or crazy. If they don't ask what my mental illiness is I woudn't tell.

[@billiezamora9582]

I believe that I'm struggling with the psychosis psychotic episodes really bad with bipolar don't be ashamed don't be embarrassed just take a deep breath keep your cool and hey they say people with bipolar 10% have 10% higher IQs were smarter but we are more agitated and stuff

[@cloaked.mystic]

Preaching truth baby 🙏❤️😭 Diagnosed for 12 years

[@stephaniedegange2737]

God bless you...

[@cryptovlogger9142]

I'm having bipolar for more than a decade n still going strong, tough but strong🥵

[@Yuppie.Mike.]

thank you for your story please read my comments. Ted please forward this to the speaker

[@ourtravelingzoo3740]

Keep staring. It’s a hard fight but you can do this

[@Just_Me-z4q]

Thank you for sharing your story on many days I believe I’m alone

[@catsat8211]

My mask is for the people and not for me that’s how I keep going I am born with a birth defeat of esophagealatrisa bulimic borderline bipolar PTSD fybromaliga and I am for the suffering of the forgotten and for the misunderstood for I am all of these but I stay strong because that’s All I can do for my fellow man for I am a women but I am all my God mad me and I have a per pose and a resin and that is why I am still alive because I live for His teachings and not my desire

[@jamesegeathers]

You absolutely have a purpose! Thank you so much for your kind words.

[@kaylabulwin1821]

In 2022 I thank you for sharing you experience with us.

[@titanniki412]

My GF has BP1. I can deal with it, help the best I'm able. What's scares me is the Hypersexuality part. That's where I will draw the line!!

[@nightbot9159]

Not all of us have someone to leave behind

[@sparkwill5337]

MO L you got me