I Didn’t Give Up on Myself: Coping with Mania and Suicidal Ideation

Lake Forte (they/them) had been struggling with symptoms of bipolar disorder and suicidal ideation throughout middle school and high school. The emotional trauma of bipolar symptoms left them feeling confused and invalidated but, instead of giving up, they chose to reach out for help. With therapy, Lake started their healing journey. With NAMI, Lake found a community of people who understood.