From the Depths of an Inspired Mind
“Hello, I am Jessica, and I am living with both borderline personality and bipolar disorder.” This is what people think they want to hear. But I’m just me. Just another person trying to navigate the craziness of everyday life. My disorders make me UNIQUE! If you know, you know! (TIP: See Dear Reader letter inside.)
Borderline Personality Disorder is characterized by a fear of abandonment leading to difficult relationships and a turbulent sense of self. Affecting 2% of the population, it presents differently in each individual.
Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings, from mania to deep depression. During manic episodes, a person feels invincible, impulsive, and elated. They talk fast, are easily distracted, and need less sleep. Depressive episodes bring fatigue, hopelessness, and self-harm tendencies. About 1 in 150 people have this disorder.
As a young adult, I was impulsive and struggled with relationships. However, with the help of behavioral therapy and medication, I’ve learned how to manage the intense emotions, mood swings, and the fear of being abandoned associated with BPD. I have also learned how to reach a wise mind (a balanced state of mind) when experiencing a heightened emotional level. I have found that every part of my treatment is vital to my success at leading a “typical” life. I hope that by sharing my deeply personal journey, I can inspire or comfort, even if just one other person, who faces these challenges. If that person is you, I hope my succession of growth resonates with you and that this book Swallows You Whole!
