ABSTRACT
My bipolar disorder started with a rude surprise as my first episode of depression came rapidly out of nowhere when I was 20 years old. A nine-and-a-half-year period began that included scattered periods of depression lasting from a few weeks to several months. I graduated from college and was able to work full-time, but some periods of time were very difficult due to depression. Because of the conversations, statements, and opinions relating to psychiatrists and their profession that I had heard while growing up, I did not trust them. I actually thought they would do me more harm than good. Medications frightened me, and I avoided people who prescribed them; I didn’t want to become addicted and have another problem. I was ignorant of the truth surrounding my illness, and that kept me from seeking help.
