I Know this Church is True...but I'm Bipolar

by Faitalia Johnson

I know this church is true but I'm living in American Samoa where resources are limited for a bipolar person like me. I have been afflicted and tested because my doctor is still on an trial and error bases with giving out my medication. While we're on it, its giving me a difficult time to cope with life. My faith has started to waiver and I'm feeling hopelessness and despair about my condition. I live in American Samoa but theres no LDS Family Services down here or any other church program specifically for us. Can somebody please get me some help? As far as my testimony in the church, I still believe the church is true and President Monson is a true prophet of God.

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2 Comments » Leave a comment
  1. El Santo Gringo
    3-28-2010, 08:29:02 PM

    Hi Faitalia. I very happy that you took the time to post a testimony on my site. Bipolar disorder is a great challenge, but the good news is that with the proper medical treatment you can lead a normal life. It's excellent that you and your doctor are currently working to identify the medicine that's right for you. I know it must be frustrating, but know that things will get better once you find the right medicine and the right dosage.

    During the depressive phase of your condition, feelings of hopelessness and despair are common. This may indicate that your doctor needs to increase the dosage of your antidepressant, if you are taking one. Why don't you mention these feelings to your doctor? Hopefully the two of you will be able to adjust your medication appropriately.

    Mental illnesses like bipolar often have two components. The first is medical and should be treated by a doctor. Additionally, Satan often takes advantage of mental states to attack us spiritually. He uses conditions like bipolar to convince patients that they are worthless or that there is no hope. Don't fall for these lies! As a son of God, you have infinite worth! God loves you, and he wants you to feel better. In addition to working with your doctor, why don't you also schedule regular meetings with your bishop or branch president? Privately explain your situation to him, especially the part related to your spiritual well being. Ask him to help you keep your faith. You may also be interested in some articles published by the church about mental health. God bless you, Faitalia. Life will get better; never loose hope.

  2. Jfb
    3-29-2010, 09:57:14 PM

    Faitalia, Thanks for sharing that beautiful testimony and asking for some help as well. I totally understand you, as I have been struggling with the same condition for years, but lately I am doing much better than I did before. I am a doctoral student on health. I would like to suggest something else I would try. Besides the professional help you may be getting, I recommend you a book to improve the brain functions and health, by Dr. Hyman, MD. It includes some powerful principles on healthy living and reasons of depression and mental issues that may be of great help to your condition... As I also have the same condition as you. Many blessings, and I truly understand of your feelings and frustration... All derived of this health condition. Know that God loves you very much. I am positive, he wants you to be happy and find solutions to your problem. Yours, JFB. May the Lord bless you! Your brother in the gospel

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