Seeking treatment amidst religious misinformation

"Many people, including my guardian, believed this [bipolar disorder] was a punishment from God for leaving the priesthood and it required a religious intervention." - Nicholas Odhiambo

"Pray about it" and "God has a plan for your pain" is more of what I heard over the years.

When managing mental illness, particularly one that features symptoms like psychosis, you often question who you are versus the condition. Do you want to be a priest or pursue multiple careers or is it just a manic episode? It's even more common for misinformed people to suggest what they think you need to feel better.

For Nicholas Odhiambo, what started as a desire to pursue priesthood turned into genuine concerns after witnessing purity tests, family politics etc — an internal battle anyone can experience regardless of a bipolar disorder diagnosis. Although he sought a break from the seminary, his request was only approved eight months later and by then depression had worsened as he settled back into his hometown in Kisumu.

While joining high school I didn't anticipate a severe depressive episode eight months later that would make it harder to keep up with schoolwork. This is after years of academic dominance in primary school which made me feel like a failure and worsened things to a point of suicide ideation. I realised I needed more tutoring and after three requests, I finally moved to a school where I dramatically improved my grades.

Thanks to a local priest who nudged Nicholas' family to seek medical help, he received a clear bipolar diagnosis, went on treatment, relocated to Nairobi and joined a support group. "Through the group, I realised many were facing similar struggles. It helped me identify my triggers and develop coping mechanisms."

Last year I also joined a virtual monthly support group run by Bipolar UK. I've finally found a place where it's safe to be a high performer and experience symptoms. Patients go through life stressors just like everyone else and navigating that experience isn't an invitation to assume. Study. Listen. Learn. We're doing the same.

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