Why am I here? Well, it’s a long story…many years ago, my parents wanted children…I kid. I might be here for the corny jokes…but seriously…I am here, because I hope that by sharing my life’s journey and curiosities with you that you might feel like you are not alone, or that there is someone in the world who can relate.
I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder I in 2013, and it took me a long time to come to terms with that diagnosis, including two hospitalizations when I was deep in the midst of manic psychosis and delusions, and many adventures and challenges along the way. I heard a saying recently in a Hay House writing seminar that really stuck with me: "Write from the scar, not the wound." I have progressed far enough on my healing journey now that it feels like I can follow that excellent advice.
This newsletter will be many things, because I contain multitudes (like we all do) and want to share it all with you! It will be about my experience with Bipolar Disorder and what I have learned along the way. There will be recipes when the spirit moves me. Sometimes I might share my poetry and/or photography. Other times, I will write about the darkness that occasionally envelops my life. I will definitely share my gratitude for the tools, resources, and people who have helped me along the way, and the bright moments of joy and challenge that illuminate my days!
I am also here because of author Molly Wizenberg’s excellent Substack, a “chronicle of enthusiasms” called “I’ve Got A Feeling”, which I subscribed to last year. I would not know about this wonderful community without her, so thank you, Molly!
I have just recently started working on a book with my fraternal twin sister that will cover my journey through Bipolar Disorder and what it was like for her to experience it from the outside. We hope that our book will help other people going through their own struggles with mental health or witnessing loved ones going through it!
I would love it if you would join me on this journey, whether for one post or many! I welcome your questions and feedback.
Here’s to a beautiful path of discovery! Much love to you all and bless us all on our collective journeys.
Blessings,
Rebecca Cooley
Coming at a memoir about bipolar disorder from the perspective of a twin is an interesting twist. It’s like the two of you are bi-bipolar or something. Haha
A hearty welcome from another bipolar Substacker hoping to “write from the scar, not the wound!” I think we actually got diagnosed the same year 😅
It is so beautiful to know that you are in a place where you can write from the scar and not the wound. Your book sounds so interesting and I’m so excited to read it one day! 💚