In 2012, my life looked unstoppable—double major, pre-med, powerlifter, driven. Then everything fell apart. What started as exhaustion spiraled into my first manic episode, a cross-country drive toward California, and my first stay in a psychiatric hospital.

In this episode, I share what it’s really like to be diagnosed with bipolar I disorder—the confusion, the fear, the trial-and-error with meds, and the slow rebuilding that followed. You’ll hear how faith, science, and sheer perseverance helped me find peace in my body and meaning in my suffering.

Whether you live with bipolar, love someone who does, or just want to understand it better, this story will show you that a diagnosis isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of a different kind of strength.

Topics covered:

* The slow onset of symptoms and early misdiagnosis

* The first manic episode and hospitalization

* What “bipolar I” actually means

* How lithium and lamotrigine changed everything

* The role of faith and family in recovery

* What no one tells you about living with a lifelong brain disease

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