Addiction Stigma and Celebrating Mental Health

Early on, I was very aware of addiction stigma and the stigma surrounding mental illness. That's why, even though May is designated Mental Health Awareness Month, I focus on my mental health and reducing addiction stigma every day of the year. This has not always been the case. When I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and struggling with addiction issues over 30 years ago, I didn’t have much to honor. In fact, I pretty much hated life as I knew it.

Addiction, Stigma and Shame

In addition to the self-loathing I experienced, I also lived in fear of what other people would think of me if they knew I was living with a dual diagnosis; addiction and a mental illness.. I did have a few friends who knew but I tended to keep my bipolar diagnosis from most others. Even my own mother tried to keep my mental illness a secret, once again, for fear of what her friends would say.

Finding Acceptance in Recovery

I lived with addiction stigma for many years until I joined a 12-Step fellowship. There, I found a group of people who were willing to accept me as I was, mental illness and all. I was fortunate to graduate from college with a Masters degree and embarked on a professional career. During that period, I met my wife who taught me the meaning of understanding and compassion. Within a couple of months of dating, I disclosed my diagnosis, not knowing what kind of reaction I would get. It was bumpy for a brief while but she eventually was able to see that the bipolar disorder was just a part of who I was. She also was by my side when I had my last manic episode 17 years ago.

Stepping Out of the Shadow of Addiction Stigma

After experiencing a period of stability, I had a yearning to share my story of addiction recovery. I decided that I would no longer walk in the shadow of my disease and face the stigma associated with addiction. I connected with a local children’s psychiatric center and started by telling my story to the kids there. At that point, the path was being laid. I continued to speak to groups in my area.

Taking a Leap of Faith

Finally, about 4 years ago I had an epiphany. It was spurred by all the controversy surrounding Britney Spears. I thought, “Why do we always hear the negative stories about mental illness?” So I wrote an op-ed piece for my local paper on the topic. It was a risk, considering that nearly no one where I worked knew anything about my bipolar and addiction diagnosis. As it turned, the article was favorably received.

Since that time, I have decided to dedicate my life to fighting addiction stigma and the stigma of mental illness and educating others about the facts surrounding mental illness and addiction. I no longer fear what people may think of me if they discover I live with a mental illness. I am just one of many that bravely face their illness every day. Recovery is possible.