30.03.2018

My Bipolar Story
by Lenar Mitchell

Back in 2014, I had a breakdown after consecutive pressures from my own standards for grades, lack of sleep and after a rejection of that year’s Valentine’s Day. Before that, it was a stage of mania for me. I think I only needed 3-4 hours of sleep per day (2010-2014) and yet I was still having a lot of energy. I was very productive, energetic, restless and too much of a perfectionist.

In my manic stage, I was repeatedly talking about religion, specifically about Zoroastrianism, moon, sun, planets, the universe (astronomy and astrology) and time, which are related to that religion. It is one of the most ancient religions in the world, as it heavily influenced the practices, values and traditions of many religions today (Judaism, Christianity and Islam).

At first, I was misdiagnosed of having depression with suicidal tendencies. A few days later, it was diagnosed as psychosis. I was sent to the hospital for three months (in-and-out) for my recovery. In those three months, I lost a total of 15kgs, since I didn’t feel the need to eat and I was always brisk walking around Tung Chung.

But previously in 2013, I weighed 85 kgs and I was actually scheduled to undergo a weightloss programme after three months. Although within three months’ time before I met the dietician, I already weighed 70 kgs. Even the dietician was surprised and he decided that I no longer needed the weightloss programme.

After a few months of treatment and trials of different medications, I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder II. Medicines can help people like me, but it does have it side effects too as I’ve gained back the weight I previously lost. I’m currently 99 kgs. Also, I am not allowed to drink alcoholic beverages. The successful medication that has worked for me are: Epilim Chrono (Mood Stabilizer) and Abilify (Antipsychotic), which I take both at night.

“Here’s to wellness and to end the stigma.”
– Lenar Mitchell

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