Chapter 4: ‘Hi I Am Shak, and I Am Bipolar’
In my previous chapters, I shared the challenges I faced after my Bipolar Disorder diagnosis and the importance of finding support through connection and vulnerability. Now, I want to take you through the transformation that occurred as I began to embrace my story and my identity.
Embracing my narrative and sharing my story
With every conversation I had, I felt a gradual shift within myself. The fear of judgment started to diminish as I leaned into the discomfort of sharing my experiences. I realized that my struggles with mental health were not weaknesses but rather integral parts of my narrative.
I began to share my story on social media, crafting posts that captured my journey and my emotions. The response was overwhelming. Messages flooded in from individuals who resonated with my experiences. Some shared their stories of battling anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. It was heartening to see how my vulnerability resonated with others, creating a ripple effect of openness and connection.
A new sense of purpose and mission
As I navigated this transformation, I recognized an opportunity to take my experiences beyond personal healing. I wanted to contribute to a larger conversation about mental health, especially within professional environments. The corporate world often perpetuates a culture of silence around mental health, and I was determined to change that narrative.
I began to develop workshops focused on mental health awareness, creating a platform for open discussions within workplaces. My mission was to foster environments where individuals felt safe to share their struggles and seek support without fear of stigma or repercussion. I believed –and still do– that if we could cultivate empathy in the workplace, we could transform how mental health is perceived and addressed.
All it takes is for one person to speak up and the rest will follow
With each workshop, I witnessed the power of shared stories. Colleagues who had previously felt isolated found comfort in knowing they were not alone. They began to speak up, sharing their own experiences with mental health challenges, and creating a community of understanding. It was a profound realization that our struggles, when shared, can foster connection rather than division.
As I continued to facilitate these workshops, I also learned more about the systemic changes needed in corporate environments. I began advocating for mental health days, flexible work arrangements, and training programs for leaders to develop empathy in their management styles. I wanted to change the narrative from one of fear and stigma to one of understanding and support.
Seeing myself as a whole and navigating my complexities
This journey of transformation not only reshaped my professional landscape but also my personal life. I began to embrace my identity as both a professional and an individual navigating the complexities of mental health. I stopped feeling like I had to hide behind a mask of perfection. Instead, I learned to celebrate my authenticity, including my struggles and triumphs.
I became more intentional about my self-care practices, recognizing their importance in maintaining my mental health. Meditation, exercise, and journaling became vital parts of my routine, allowing me to connect with myself on a deeper level. These practices provided me with a sense of grounding amid the chaos of life, reminding me that my worth is not defined by my productivity or societal expectations.
When one person heals so do those around them
The transformation I experienced was a journey of self-discovery and resilience. I realized that by embracing my narrative, I could not only heal myself but also inspire others to do the same. The courage to speak openly about my experiences began to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health in my professional community. I felt empowered to continue this mission, using my voice to advocate for empathy and understanding in every sphere of life.
Read Chapter 5, where I reflect on the new world I’ve embraced—a world where mental health struggles are not hidden but acknowledged, and empathy paves the way for authentic connections and lasting change.
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Shak is pursuing his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (MACP) and will start his practicum in January. He's involved with the Canadian Mental Health Association and he's working on turning his blog, Bipolar Empath, into a book while managing his accounting business.
Stay tuned for more updates on Shak’s journey and the impact he continues to make in the mental health community!
