Yes of course shame is integral with BiPolar

• Welcome to the BOL Forum on Shame and Affect Theory by John Grohol, 2/10/96
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    • Bipolar Affective Illness and Shame by Don Nathanson, 7/26/96
      
      

I spent years, blowing money, destroying relationships and almost destroying myself. I could not control my good days or bad days. I was diagnosed originally with chemical dependency which was another event that almost lost me my life, medical license and child. But aafter 3 years and a wonderful Dr. I was given the dx. of BiPolar type II. Not that this is an excuse for the behaviors that occurred, but for the first time I wasn't angry anymore. I was not just thinking I was crazy I really did have a problem. I take my medicine daily, just greatful for the relief of the sanity over the last year, but yet the moods down, the feeling is generally that of shame, guilt, low self esteem etc. Not maybe so much from actions, but rather the depresssion and the mania intensify the feelings of shame. Hey anything I can pick on at myself and the worst I feel about myself, the more justified I can be in not having to remain responsible for my own actions and accountiblity. Yes Shame is an integral part of our makeup!

• Can you share more with us? by Don Nathanson, 10/3/97