189: Unveiling Realities of Silent Success Living with Bipolar

Why is it that we do not hear from more people who have achieved success when it comes to living with bipolar? Success does not look the same for everyone. But what does success look like when navigating life with bipolar? In this episode, I get into a deep conversation about these topics with Gabe Howard, a well-known figure in the mental health advocacy field. Gabe is the author of 'Mental Illness is an Asshole,' and host of the podcast 'Inside Bipolar' from Healthline Media, which offers a unique perspective on living with bipolar disorder. He also hosts the 'Inside Mental Health' podcasts and co-hosts the 'A Bipolar, A Schizophrenic, and a Podcast,' podcast. Gabe breaks down the challenges and misconceptions surrounding bipolar disorder and the role fear plays in staying silent. Gabe shares his personal journey, from his diagnosis in 2003 to the recognition of the lifelong management of the disorder. Gabe stresses the importance of changing perceptions and creating positive examples for those navigating a similar path. This shared experience provides valuable insights and sparks a crucial dialogue about the ongoing process of living well with bipolar disorder. For more Gabe, be sure to connect with him here! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:22 Gabe's Story: Living with Bipolar Disorder 05:55 The Impact of Diagnosis and the Journey to Acceptance 06:00 The Power of Support Groups and Shifting Mindsets 07:46 The Struggle for Stability and the Path to Recovery 09:30 The Importance of Believing in Yourself 11:00 The Transition from Silence to Openness about Mental Health 14:59 The Responsibility to Share Personal Stories 16:41 Fear and the Impact on Career 17:12 Experiences of Discrimination at Work 18:35 Overcoming Fear and Speaking Out 19:17 The Turning Point: Choosing to Share the Experience 20:16 The Power of Positive Examples 21:03 The Importance of Sharing and Inspiring Others 23:14 Living Well with Bipolar: A Personal Perspective 24:39 The Roommate Analogy: Living with Bipolar 27:19 The Power of Online Communities and Podcasts 28:42 Final Thoughts and Resources