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My name is Snowflake. I choose this name because each snowflake is unique and precious in its own right. I was born in Conneaut, Ohio, which by the way is called the mistake on the lake lol. Conneaut is also in the Snow Belt, so I learned to love the snow and its beauty early on in life.

In 2001 I was injured on the job and had to go off on workers compensation. It was then that things went downhill for me. I became severely depressed and withdrawn. I lost everything due to my injury and it was a rough learning experience for me. I was diagnosed with severe depression and P.T.S.D. - this lasted for two years. I was to the point of being unable to function as a person. I stayed in bed for days and weeks at a time. Seeing the problem, my wonderful husband got me in to the doctor and I was diagnosed bipolar non-specified, P.T.S.D, severe depression and anxiety and panic disorder. Wow! That day was the turning point of my life. I finally had a name for what was wrong with me! It felt like a weight was lifted off of me. I know having bipolar has made me more aware of my behaviors, emotions and feelings. I hope this will help me to help others in the chat room.

I am 32 years old and I have been married to the most loving and patient man in the world for going on 3 years. I have 5 children - two of mine, two of his and our one. All boys at that! Two of my sons have bipolar and one has ADHD. Never a dull moment when we are all together!

Being a stay-at-home mama, I found the bipolar support chat very helpful. I have learned a lot and made some friends I otherwise would not have without Bipolar Chat. So if you are ever in the chat room I am most likely to be there, and if you need someone to talk to, I am willing to listen.