236: A Powerful Outlet in Ink

Join Paris and she welcomes special guest Colleen Sharlow, a Prevention Educator, Mental Health Advocate, creative writer and Cat Mom. Colleen shares her journey with bipolar, starting from her childhood in a large family where mental health was seldom discussed, through her misdiagnosis with depression, struggles with an eating disorder and eventual diagnosis with bipolar I after a frightening episode of mania and psychosis. She recounts how writing, family support and therapy became essential tools in her recovery. The episode also highlights Colleen's work as a prevention educator, her efforts to support students and her advice for others living with bipolar. Stay connected with Colleen here [https://www.instagram.com/collshar]! Check out her free journaling club here [https://www.instagram.com/shorealignmentclub]! Check out this resource [https://paris-scobie-s-school.teachable.com/p/lovewellbipolar] to support someone you love who lives with bipolar! 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement01:31 Colleen's Early Experiences with Mental Health04:31 Struggles with Depression and Eating Disorders06:27 Therapy and Misdiagnosis10:53 Coping Mechanisms and Writing as Therapy15:14 Family Support and Spirituality17:11 Professional Work and Impact17:40 Mental Health Programs for All Ages18:22 Personal Experiences Shaping Professional Life18:49 Supportive Work Environment During Crisis19:24 Living with Bipolar Disorder20:15 Diagnosis and Manic Episode21:27 Experiencing Psychosis25:17 Reflecting on Mental Health Stigma28:02 Living Well with Bipolar31:10 Final Thoughts and Staying Connected