How To Fight the Fear of Seeking Care For Your Mental Health

I grew the most when I faced my fears.

A goldfish trying to be brave by wearing a shark fin. | Graphic made by author with Canva.

Hi there!

You’re sitting in your therapist’s office, trying to find the courage to speak the words that have been swirling around in your head for weeks.

“I think I might be bipolar.”

It feels like a death sentence.

You’ve heard all the horror stories about medications and how they can send you into a spiral of mania or depression. But you don’t want to live in fear anymore.

You’re ready to take control of your mental health and start living the life you deserve.

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“There is nothing worth doing that is not scary. There is no one who has achieved greatness without wrestling with their own doubts, anxieties, limitations, and demons.”

- Ryan Holiday

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Scott Ninneman publishes two newsletters each week. The Sunday All Things Bipolar Newsletter (off Substack) features the newest content about bipolar life. The Speaking Bipolar Positivity Club Newsletter shares inspirational stories three times a week to help you maintain a positive mindset.

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I Waited Too Long

I get it. I waited way too long to tell anyone I was struggling.

In my mind, I imagined all the worst-case scenarios, from being committed to a psychiatric facility for the rest of my life to losing all my family and friends.

Part of me even feared I would lose touch with reality and never be me again. I feared I’d never hold another job, be in a loving relationship, or live to see my 30th birthday.