Teetering on a Tightrope, A Courageous Bipolar Journey... DTH Episode 212 with Steve W. Wilson

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Show Notes

Teetering on a Tightrope, A Courageous Bipolar Journey

In this episode, host Wilk Wilkinson is joined by author Steve W. Wilson to discuss his book, "Teetering on a Tightrope, My Bipolar Journey". They explore the severe mental health crisis in the US, particularly the challenges faced by those with bipolar disorder. Steve shares his traumatic childhood experience of being sexually assaulted and how it may have contributed to his mental health struggles. They discuss the two types of bipolar disorder and the depth of depressive episodes. They also highlight the inadequate support from insurance companies and the government, as well as the importance of mental health support groups and the increasing mental health issues among younger generations.

Takeaways

 

  • There is a severe mental health crisis in the US, with around 50 million Americans suffering from mental illness.
  • Bipolar disorder has two types: bipolar 1, characterized by extreme manic and depressive episodes, and bipolar 2, which involves severe depression.
  • Support is crucial for those with mental health issues, and it is important to provide unconditional support rather than trying to fix or change them.
  • Insurance companies and the government often fail to provide adequate resources and timely help for mental health issues.
  • Mental health support groups play a vital role in providing support and combating isolation and loneliness.
  • Younger generations are facing increasing mental health issues due to societal pressures, bullying, and the internet.
  • Kindness, understanding, and compassion can significantly impact those struggling with mental health challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring the Severe Mental Health Crisis in the US
09:06 Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Depressive Episodes
12:41 The Importance of Support for Mental Health Issues
15:06 Inadequate Support from Insurance Companies and the Government
22:38 The Increasing Mental Health Issues Among Younger Generations
28:18 The Power of Kindness and Compassion in Mental Health
 

Who is Steve W. Wilson?

Steve Wilson, 75, the Author of "Teetering On A Tightrope, my bipolar journey," was born in Delaware, Ohio and now resides in Scottsdale, Arizona with his wife, Lenni. They have been married for 51 years, have three daughters and two granddaughters. Steve spent 50 years in the custom clothing business. He retired in 2019. In 1978, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. It was not until 2000 that he was able to conquer the disorder. Since 2015 he has facilitated two mental health support groups. This year alone he has appeared on 30+ podcasts describing his journey and raising awareness of mental health. One of the main focuses is to discuss the inadequacy of government programs and the damage done by the insurance companies when it comes to providing mental health care.

 

Learn more about and connect with Steve W. Wilson online:

What have you done today to make your life a better life? What have you done today to make the world a better place? The world is a better place if we are better people. That begins with each of us as individuals. Be kind to one another. Be grateful for everything you’ve got. Make each and every day the day that you want it to be!

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