I need help and comfort ASAP. I’m bipolar and had a one year manic episode / psychotic break. During which I acted totally inappropriately and set fire to my reputation. I mean I really did terrible things that I can’t forgive myself for. I keep thinking I can’t continue to live and some days I throw up over how disgusting and bad I feel. Please could anyone give me advice? 😔

You are not your mental illness, the ones who deserve you in their life will understand that, you can work with a therapist and learn how to manage these things and get it under control

It takes time to accept Bipolar. I was diagnosed with bipolar 18 yrs ago. The hardest people to deal with were actually extended “family”. The shame and embarrassment is very common after being manic. Remember the people that love and care for you will be there for you. Those are the only ones that matter. I finally realized and accepted that my diagnosis is not a curse but a gift. God has used it to make me much more compassionate, non judgemental, open etc. He did not make a mistake with you. It’s part of your journey.

I am completely distraught.

I also am having issues with forgiving myself. I feel like such a failure. I also feel that I was such a burden to my family. I’ve ruined multiple family relationships. I am having such a hard time accepting that I deserve any kind of happiness.

If you don’t mind me asking. How old are you? I am a mom of two little girls and wife and can try to give you some perspective from that vantage point. Why a failure? Bipolar is a chemical imbalance that is treated with medicine, natural practical healthy lifestyle and therapy.

In my 40s. OCD hit me in my twenties

OCD only.