Fighting Goliath for Mental Illness Blog

Do you have the courage to rise and believe—even in the middle of deep depression? Can peace be found on a day filled with despair, or in a season marked by suffering?  If you live with bipolar disorder, you know the ups and downs can feel relentless. Some mornings, just…

“Suicide survivor.” Two words I never imagined would be part of my story. Yet, during an intense 2.5-year battle with anxiety and depression, I attempted to end my life twice, eventually spiraling intopsychosis. At rock bottom, I found myself in a pit littered with guilt and shame, suffocating beneath itscrushing…

It was a sunny South Florida Saturday, but inside a tiny Mediterranean-style cottage, I lay in darkness. The birds sang, but their melody was drowned out by the weight of my grief—so heavy it felt like a thousand-pound weight pressing me into the couch. I had lost count of the…

Director, Sid’s House Mental Health Association in Stokes County, NC(sidleemha.org and on Facebook) Honoring Vincent van Gogh and Raising AwarenessMarch 30—Happy 172nd birthday, Vincent van Gogh! In your honor,three international mental health organizations established WorldBipolar Day, recognizing the posthumous diagnosis of bipolar disorderthat shaped your turbulent yet brilliant life.Your art,…

What is fear? Webster's dictionary defines fear as "an unpleasant, often strong emotion caused byanticipation or awareness of danger. Many people who live with bipolar disorder also live withan anxiety disorder such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, or socialdisorder. When feelings of fear surface, these feelings can amplify…

You cannot find the answer to despair within yourself. The only One who can do this is Christ. He is my only hope. John 6:37 reminds us: "Whoever comes to me I will never cast out" (ESV). Even when the darkness lasts forever, He will never give up on you.…

Should I Disclose My Bipolar Diagnosis Disclosing your bipolar diagnosis is a profoundly personal decision that only you can make. If you choose to share it, ensure you are emotionally prepared to discuss your diagnosis. Consider potential challenges, such as adverse reactions or the possibility of your diagnosis being used…

It’s that time of year—the so-called “most wonderful time of the year.” But in reality, it doesn’t always feel that way. The hustle and bustle, the constant rushing from one thing to the next, can leave many feeling overwhelmed, drained, and emotionally spent. Sometimes, the energy to embrace the festivities…

“And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.” Psalm 39:7 ESVYou're filled with an unfamiliar surge of energy. “Rockin around the Christmas treeAt the Christmas party hopMistletoe hung where you can seeEvery couple tries to stop.” Christmas songs filled the air as we kids…

Imagine for a moment that it is one of the good days.You're filled with an unfamiliar surge of energy.Self aware that these moments are fleeting, you take action.Stepping outside for a walk with a little skip in your stride.Engaging with your surroundings as sunshine bathes your skin in the warmth…

The woman beneath the smile is no longer smiling. She feels depleted, worn down, nothing left to give. The thoughts try to creep inside her head that she can’t do this anymore. She can’t handle another round of spiraling down into the abyss of darkness. Hello, bipolar depression! This is…

September is National Suicide Prevention and Awareness month. A month where we have the opportunity to shift perception, provide resources, and proclaim that there is always hope. Suicide is never the answer. The struggle is very real. Truth is, we can all benefit to know the risks and warning signs…