1. MY LIVED EXPERIENCE: Bipolar Disorder II
By Rachel Ibbetson

2. Defining ‘taboo’ terms
Disability:
Imposed on a person with a physical, psychosocial, intellectual, neurological and/or sensory impairment
Deny access to full participation in all aspects of life.
Bipolar Disorder II:
Brain disorder
Affects a person’s moods severely
Defined by cycles of depression and hypomanic episodes
My episodes are fuelled by debilitating anxiety

3. In Grahamstown, at UCKAR, with mad weather
In res:
Open-door policy with my warden
Accepted for the first time in my life
Living with 103 other girls
In digs:
Living with one close friend who understood me
Control over my immediate environment
Even with the acceptance and empathy, sometimes I feel like the weather is the only thing that understands me.

4. In times of crisis: academics, and personal
You are no less of a person or weak if you ask for help:
In order to help others you need to help yourself first
Yes, you’re here for your degree but there is so much more than just academia
Make healthy choices

5. SUPPORT My support system: From the university: Family Friends
Girlfriend
Psychologist
Psychiatrist and medication
The San
Some lecturers
Utilising my personal healthy coping mechanisms
From the university:
Academic (approaching departments)
Assistive technology
Exams (Concessions)
Financial (NSFAS)
Library
Personal (Counselling Centre)
General (Division of Student Affairs)

6. Do not invalidate someone else’s lived experience because it inconveniences you!