Bipolar Disorder Symptoms and Stigma: A Personal Story of Struggle and Strength

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, we sit down with Michelle Yang, who courageously shares her journey of living with depression and bipolar disorder while growing up in an immigrant family. For over 20 years, Michelle kept her struggles a secret—battling shame, fear, and cultural stigma that prevented her from getting help.

She describes the trauma of immigration, the pressure of being a high-achieving student, and the terrifying symptoms of untreated bipolar disorder. Michelle also opens up about how stigma in her family and community delayed her access to care, and why sharing her story now is an act of healing and advocacy.

If you or someone you know is living with depression or bipolar disorder, Michelle’s story is a powerful reminder that you are not alone—and that finding your voice can break stigma and inspire others.

Link to Michelle's Blog: http://www.livingwellhappily.com/

Link to Michelle's article we referenced: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/asian-american-mental-illness_n_5cacad09e4b02e7a705dae97

Primary Topics Covered:

• The hidden struggles of living with bipolar disorder and depression as a teen.
• The impact of immigration trauma and family pressures on mental health.
• How cultural stigma delayed Michelle’s access to treatment.
• The dangers of dismissing symptoms as “teen drama” or “cultural differences.”
• The power of naming your experiences and finding support.

Timestamps:

00:49 – Introduction to Michelle’s story
 01:28 – Keeping depression and bipolar disorder secret for 20 years
 02:38 – Immigration trauma and cultural challenges
 04:03 – Childhood responsibilities and family pressures
 05:31 – Early symptoms of bipolar disorder and mania
 06:18 – The crushing shame of mental illness in adolescence
 07:19 – How stigma and cultural misconceptions delayed help
 09:13 – Michelle begs her parents for mental health support
 10:15 – Family fear and stigma preventing treatment
 11:24 – Reading from Michelle’s Huffington Post article
 12:41 – A heartbreaking dismissal from a doctor
 13:06 – Looking ahead to part two of Michelle’s story

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