The Label Doesn't Matter

 

It's been a hot minute since I've written. And I thought for sure I had run out of things to say, but, as it so happens, I have more to say because I've learned more in the time I've been away. I don't think my writing will be as frequent as it was before, but I will still write on the odd occasion. Whoever you are, my good reader, I appreciate you. 

As stated in the title, the label doesn't matter, I've learned a thing or two about self-worth while adventuring in the world. I used to think the Bipolar label meant I shouldn't have kids, or wouldn't have a worthwhile life. I once had a psychiatrist tell me to expect to not have children, never have a stable partnership, never work full time consistently, and to never be off medications. Spoiler alert: I work almost full time (and I have in the past- I was at the time he told me that), I have had several stable partnerships over the years and am on the brink of getting married to the love of my life, and I have been off my medications a time or two. In short, he was wrong. 

I work at a restaurant, approximately 30 hours a week or more. My fiancée and I have been together for nearly three years, our wedding is in March of next year (2026). I have plans to work with both my medical and psychiatric team to allow for children. And I'm also working with my therapist to address past trauma and present day issues. I am growing. 

Labels are good for understanding symptoms and allowing insurance to cover medications as well as other treatments. I still struggle with mood instability and severe depression. But I also have new tips and tricks to allow for better quality of life (which I will absolutely be sharing in upcoming posts). What I mean to say is that your label, that is used to make sure you get the best treatment, does not to define you as a person. Do not make it your identity. It can be used to help you communicate what you need, but do not let it diminish what you can or cannot do as an individual. There is always a way to over come it. It may mean learning a new way to communicate, a new way to cope with daily challenges, or a new way of life. But it does not mean that you are any less of a person because you are in possession of a label. 

People judge what they don't understand. The best way to combat this is to understand it for yourself. Sometimes, people are so narrowminded that they can't see past their own insecurities or precognitions. The most peace I've found in my life is understanding how my chemical imbalance works and making it work for me in return. I take everything with a grain of salt and one step at a time. Because I've done my research, taken my time to feel things in their entirety, and I've learned to not fully accept the thoughts that occupy my brain (more on this later) I've found peace. 

You are still a whole person, no matter the label or disability. That statement can be frustrating. What are you talking about? I can't do x, y, or z, etc. Maybe there are things you can't do, but there are other things you CAN do. Beethoven, one of the greatest classical music minds of all time was hearing impaired and yet because he could FEEL the vibrations created some of the best symphonies of all time. I use my disability to relate to others and help them through tough times. It has made me a stronger person and a better communicator. It still takes a village to keep me balanced. I work with doctors, my family, my friends, and a therapist and even still I have bad days. The one thing I do for myself is that I don't give up and I keep going. That is all you can do, keep going. Keep pushing, keep trying, whatever you do don't give up on yourself. 

There is always hope. 

Don't give up. 

Keep going.

<3

E