If Shawville resident Gregory Marcus has one message to anyone suffering from a Bipolar disorder, it’s “take your meds”.
In fact, he’d go so far as to suggest diagnosed individuals be assigned a guardian to assure the medication assigned is properly taken.
While it is more typical for an individual to receive a bipolar diagnosis in their late teens or early twenties- despite a family history of symptoms, Marcus was not so identified until his mid-40s, leading to actions that shamed him, caused others physical and emotional harm- and landed him in the slammer.
Marcus says those who suffer most from the mood swings and shifts in internal perspective are those within the immediate family who can be physically victimized by the erratic behaviour.
As his “right self” Marcus is a multi-disciplinary sports coach who dotes over his children. Today, his evening pharmaceutical cocktail can include up to 15 separate medications- but it’s worth it.
The Shawville resident says those in recovery shouldn’t expect to be re-embraced by family overnight, as reconciliation won’t be accomplished by impatience.
Gregory Marcus of Shawville called us, asking if his story could be included in this week’s features- as he knows it’s not unique.
In addition to medication, proper sleep, diet and restrained indulgence help keep life in balance.
By Rick Stow
