Why do i help others?

Because i can. Because i think someone could use the things i've learned about my conditions in helping to treat their own. Also helping others really gives me more insight into myself. Everytime i explain my situation, i look at it with a critical and objective eye.

Bipolar disorder, Depression, and Addiction are very serious illnesses if left untreated. However, they are also the most treatable of all the mental illnesses. There is no reason you should have to suffer anymore.

first step is to see a doctor. If you can't afford the medications or the doctor, then you should talk to your local mental health services. the hospital can direct you to the right place. They can help. I know many who have got the help they need there are now lead happy and prosperous lives.

It's unfortunate that many people with these illness don't even realize there is a problem. We just think it's the way it is, or it's all in our head. It is, but if it's serious, it will never go away, and most definitely get worse without treatment. If you feel chronic depression or feel like you're crazy a lot of the time, then by all means get help.

If you know someone with one of these illnesses, or addiction, then you should go easy and explain to them that their behavior is not the "normal" behavior. You sense something seriously wrong. Push them in one of the directions of the many mental illness sites on the internet. I use http://www.dbsalliance.org/ all of the time.

I also use the various AA sites for addiction referrels. Most of them have links to meetings in their area. i know in my area there is http://www.aacentralohio.org/, or http://www.aa.org/ for national referrals. AA is a great place. You might one to go to one yourself even if you don't have an addiction. It can really shed some light on the subject. The AA program is the choice of many of the drug addicts i know. The various other 12 step programs tailored to their addiction, don't have the same fellowship that AA does.

Don't forget there's always http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/ for those that have to deal with addicts.

Don't let the stigma of mental illnesses deter you. As more and more people are educated and treated, and start speaking out for others, this stigma is being lifted. It's ok to have a chemical imbalance. Many of us do, you know. Some of us refuse to live in fear and desperation our whole lives and use the resources that are available.