To My Little Cousin Who Was Just Diagnosed With Bipolar Disorder

Dear little cousin,

When your mother told me you had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, I cried.

I wept because I did not want anyone else in the family to walk the road I am on with my own bipolar disorder diagnosis. I wept because bipolar disorder can be more difficult to manage the younger you are when you are diagnosed. I was 23 when my symptoms surfaced. You are 14. You are too young to deal with emotional and mental concerns.

Yet, visiting you in the hospital was bittersweet. It dredged up memories of my own hospitalizations, all four of them. I was glad you were receiving treatment and on the road to recovery and wellness. Attending your eighth grade graduation, my heart swelled with pride, love and hope. I felt all of this because the last few months were not easy for you. You had more than your fair share of challenges to overcome. Thankfully, you did not have to do any of it alone.

The relationship you have developed with your therapist warms my heart. She has impacted you to your core, So much so you, too, now want to be a therapist, which would be the ultimate way of paying it forward, of passing on what was instilled into you.

I know you are only 14, but if this career goal sticks, I know you will make an excellent therapist. You have first-hand knowledge of what it means to live in mood instability and stability. You know the impact of a caring adult and professional. From what you told me about how you relate to your peers, listening and giving advice, you are already honing important skills.

Listening to you talk about your newfound career interests made me beam with pride. I, too, want to become a therapist because of my own experiences with my diagnosis. I, too, have been blessed with great, caring mental health providers and I want to pay it forward.

I hope I can also be a role model for you in how to live in recovery and instability. I’ve had nearly 10 years to learn about my bipolar disorder. I’ve learned to be reflective and proactive. If you ever need help navigating your moods, self-care or high school next year, I’m here.