"Hi! My name is Jonathan I currently live in North Carolina. I was diagnosed 8 years ago with Bipolar 1 and finally at the age of 28 feel comfortable telling people my story. In the height of a manic episode I was hospitalized. At the time, I didn’t have the words to explain what was happening in my mind and the diagnosis was devastating. All I knew for sure was that the mania was unsustainable. They kept me in the hospital for a week, and I was put on medication. I spent so much time embarrassed by my diagnosis that I didn’t share it with anyone - not even my family. The shame and stigma around these conversations kept me in the shadows. So after all these years of growth, I’m here to say no more hiding! I want people to be aware, because I am your neighbor and friend. I’m still a work in progress, but that’s ok. With therapy and my psychiatrist, my quality of life has changed dramatically. My AWARE necklace means no more hiding! When people ask me about it, I explain to them bipolar disorder is a part of who I am but it definitely isn't the whole essence of my being." @good_formy_mental