Bipolar is a topic very close to my heart and a lot of people all over the world!
In this episode, I talk with Susana Bluwol who is the Founder and Executive Director of Bipolar Australia about all things Bipolar and the struggles that people face with Bipolar.
We go into depth about the struggles for funding and the struggles Susana has had when trying to collaborate with bigger mental health organisations. Susana also shares her story and talks about what is needed moving forward.
Born in Argentina, Susana migrated to Australia in 1983. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1996, Susana has always believed in the value of person-centred recovery models. She has been the facilitator of the Ryde Bipolar Support Group since 2004 and founded Bipolar Australia in 2014 in conjunction with other members of this group.
Susana has a degree in Early Childhood Education and has previously worked with the National Consumers and Carers Forum, the Transcultural Mental Health CALD Reference Group, the Schizophrenia Fellowship’s Remind education program, and the National CALD Speakers Bureau, as well as appearing on SBS radio and SBS television.
Susana has presented papers at TheMHS Australia conferences on topics including the benefits of inclusive support groups, and the pioneering therapeutic community treatment model developed by Dr Jorge Garcia Badaracco in her native Argentina. She has also spoken about her personal journey of recovery from bipolar disorder at the International Mental Health Congress in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
To learn more and donate please visit - https://www.bipolaraustralia.org.au/
To learn more about the podcast visit - www.livedexperiencepodcast.com
These are just a few episodes that focus on young carers and people growing up with a parent who had a mental illness.