May 1st kicks off Mental Health Awareness Month, and on Bipolar Brought Balance, that means leaning all the way in. In this episode, Emily shares why she started telling her bipolar disorder story publicly seven years ago, the privileges that made it possible, and why stigma reduction is best done through storytelling. Whether you have a diagnosis, love someone who does, or just want to be a better neighbor and colleague, this one is for you.

In 2018, I was strapped down to a hospital bed and sedated. That night ended in an emergency room, a bipolar disorder diagnosis, and three months of medical leave. It's the story that started Bipolar Brought Balance. What I haven't talked about as much is what it changed in how I think about success.

What does mania feel like in real life? In this personal essay, I share my lived experience with bipolar disorder, including early warning signs of mania, hypomania, and what I wish I had understood sooner. Warm, honest, and educational, this is for anyone trying to better understand their mental health.