Topics Covered
Stigma and myths surrounding bipolar disorder and mental illness
Marcia's experience as a therapist with bipolar disorder
Discrimination and shaming in the mental health profession
Effects and management of medication for bipolar disorder
Personal and romantic relationships impacted by mental illness
What psychotic and manic episodes look like
Advice for family and friends supporting someone with a mental illness
Guidance on discontinuing medication safely
Resources for further support
Quotes
“My dream is for people to view people with a mental illness with the same kind of compassion, understanding, and respect that they would show to somebody with a physical illness.” —
Marcia Naomi Berger
“Once it got out that I had this mental illness, people were nasty, humiliating me. And you would think, why would these professional therapists be so lacking in compassion and understanding?” —
Marcia Naomi Berger
"I've been off...no medication, no therapy for bipolar disorder for, I don't know, something like 33 years." —
Marcia Naomi Berger
“You cannot expect someone to be reasonable if they're in a psychotic state. But you can still be compassionate and kind.” —
Marcia Naomi Berger
Connect with Marcia Naomi Berger
Website: marriagemeetings.com
Books: "The Bipolar Therapist," "Marriage Meetings for Lasting Love"
For book access: Find online, ask at your local bookstore, or check your library
Resources List
Books by Marcia Naomi Berger:
The Bipolar Therapist
Marriage Meetings for Lasting Love (also referenced at marriagemeetings.com)
Mental Health Information:
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Local therapists and psychiatrists (recommended for medication changes)
Podcast:
M.E.S.H. Podcast
#MentalHealth
#BipolarDisorder
#StigmaFree
#TherapistsTalk
#MESHpodcast
#Compassion
#RecoveryJourney
#MentalHealthAwareness
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