Amanda, the Founder and Creator of Monarch Mental Health, has been a dedicated advocate for the mental health community, driven by her own lived experience with Bipolar 1. Diagnosed in 2010, her journey began with a journal, a lifeline during her first appointment with a pediatrician when she couldn't voice her suicidal thoughts. Referred to a psychiatrist, she embarked on an 11-year path of medical care, therapy, and self-discovery. Throughout her journey, Amanda found solace and clarity in journaling, a coping skill that remains vital to her today. Struggling with cognitive issues from medication, she developed a color-coded brain log to track her symptoms, empowering her to communicate more effectively with her doctors. Despite numerous challenges, including a lengthy depressive episode, dropping out of college, and a stay in a mental health hospital, Amanda's resilience shone through. She organized a mental health awareness event, found a consistent medication regimen, and engaged with a new therapist. Amanda's passion for mental health advocacy led her to establish Monarch Mental Health. She believes that breaking the stigma around Bipolar disorder starts with open conversations. Through Monarch Mental Health, Amanda aims to help others share their stories and find their voices, fostering a supportive and understanding community. Today, she continues regular visits to both psychiatrist and therapist. She continues on with life, “moment by moment”, with her rapid cycling Bipolar 1 disorder. Amanda wants those of you who also battle with Bipolar 1 or 2, to know that we can get through our struggles, even if that means restarting our day at 2:00 PM. Please support Amanda McNamara online: https://www.monarchmhealth.org/ https://www.tiktok.com/@beautifulbipolarbrain?_t=8oFGxQfNRMJ&_r=1 Insta: https://www.instagram.com/monarch_mentalhealth/ Get merch, join a course and more! Check out all the ways you can support this show and host at: https://linktr.ee/OwnYourAwkward For more information on how you can Own Your Awkward with Andy Vargo, check out https://www.awkwardcareer.com/ #podcast #awkward #ownyourawkward #acceptance #authenticity #motivation #inspiration #coach #connection #energy #positive #education #mentalhealth #bipolar #bipolarawareness #bipolardisorder #empowerment