How do you live a normal life while dealing with a mental illness? by Andrea Krueger, LMSW
Answer by Andrea Krueger, LMSW:
First of all “normal” when it comes to life is subjective. It depends on what you consider “normal.” Your life may not seem normal compared to someone else but it’s normal for you; and with every life, mental illness or not, you have to live one day at a time.
I have had early-onset bipolar or childhood bipolar and ADHD. My mother noticed something off about me when I was a toddler. I was officially diagnosed at age 17 with manic-depression. I am currently diagnosed with bipolar II disorder and ADHD. Mental illness is my normal.
By a normal life, I’m assuming you are asking if I have healthy interpersonal relationships, am self-sufficient financially, and experienced the conventional milestones of human development. My answer is yes and no.
Thanks to my parents, despite having two mental disorders, I was a well nourished, physically well developed child. My childhood was relatively happy, and I successfully graduated high school and went on to go to university (love you Mom and Dad!).
- I married a nice man. We got divorced, and I was left with a great kid and fine ex-in-laws. I am currently in a long-term relationship of 17 years. We intend to get married, and when we do, I will inherit a beautiful step-son.
- I’m not satisfied with my professional career (a casualty of my mental illness) but I have enough job skills to maintain employment.
- I own an extremely modest townhouse in a desirable area. I have access to transportation, had the opportunity to travel, and have hobbies and interests.
These things seem pretty normal for some people, but then…
- I’ve been in trouble with the law more times than I care to remember.
- I’m on a first name basis with the staff my local psychiatric hospital.
- Because I was hypomanic in university and took way more courses than needed to graduate, I have a student loan debt that could pay for two more bachelor degrees.
I live a normal life by accepting my illness, taking my medications and following my mental health treatment plan. I live my life as purely as possible- eating a nutritious diet, exercising, and practicing spiritual disciplines.
I also practice gratitude for the good things I do have. I try to be content and love my life including when I’m experiencing negative feelings such as depression and boredom. I try to appreciate that when I recover from an extreme emotion, it is a form of catharsis that makes me stronger. This works for me.