The Bipolar Memes That Made Me Feel Understood for the First Time

Several years ago, when memes were coming out like Socially Awkward Penguin, Advice Dog, Philosoraptor — you know, the ones with the colorful backgrounds — there was one I came across called “Bipolar Owl.” I was ready to be offended by stereotypes, but they were actually hilarious and I found myself shaking my head while reading them saying, “Yes… Yes… Yes… They get me.”

• What is Bipolar disorder?

Bipolar Owl was the first time I realized other people go through the same things I do and that I’m not the only one.

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Usually when I’m manic, I can’t sleep and I decide to rearrange all of my furniture in the middle of the night. I start a bunch of things and don’t finish them. I started teaching myself Russian one day just because. I don’t know what to say when people ask how I am.

All I want to do when I’m depressed is sleep. I’ve probably taken every combination of medicine available, trying to find the right cocktail for me, still afraid it can stop working at any moment.

When I’m stable, I’m not sure if anything I feel is genuine or if it’s the start of another episode. I’m not sure which version of me is the “real” me or “normal” me. I was shocked to see so many memes reflecting these very things, and it was such a relief to know I’m not alone. There’s just something about knowing that someone out there truly understands you.

Here are a few more highlights from Bipolar Owl. Hopefully you can relate as much as I did.