Today, Explained This country is a lot right now
5 snips
Jun 30, 2022 
Basi Ikbi, a talented poet known for her work on HBO's Deaf Poetry Jam, shares her personal journey with bipolar disorder, shedding light on the stigma and the hurdles of navigating the mental healthcare system. Dr. Thomas Insel, a neuroscientist and former NIMH director, discusses the urgent need for systemic change in mental health treatment. Together, they explore the unique challenges posed by the pandemic, the importance of comprehensive care, and the necessity of integrating personal experiences with scientific advancements to improve mental wellness.
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Bozie's Breakdown
- Bozie Ikbi, a successful artist, experienced a mental health crisis during a tour.
- Her demanding schedule disrupted her coping mechanisms, leading to a breakdown.
Diagnosis and Family Reactions
- At 27, Bozie was diagnosed with bipolar 2 disorder, which she initially denied.
- Her parents reacted differently; her father with guilt, her mother with fear and secrecy.
Treatment and Relapse
- Bozie valued her therapist's care and chose therapy over medication after losing insurance.
- This led to hospitalization, and later, she stopped treatment altogether after a friend's death.
