VIMHS
Vancouver Island Mental Health Society
‘The Stigmacrusher’ talks lived experience of bipolar, and ‘unmasking mental health’
‘The Stigmacrusher’ talks lived experience of bipolar, and ‘unmasking mental health’
‘The Stigmacrusher’ talks lived experience of bipolar, and ‘unmasking mental health’
Saturday 3rd May 2025
Jessica Ward-King shares her journey with bipolar disorder, offering insight into unmasking mental health.
43 minutes
Inspiring
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Honest
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Get the buttons here!Unmasking Mental Health: Jessica Ward-King's Journey with Bipolar Disorder
Episode Overview
- Unmasking can lead to more open and honest conversations.
- Disclosure requires assessing if an environment is safe.
- Mental illness often carries hidden stigma.
- Personal stories help demystify mental health conditions.
- Empathy and understanding are crucial in mental health discussions.
"It was terrifying, but it was also very liberating because then when people ask me, ‘how are you doing?’ I could actually say, ‘not so great’"
Jessica Ward-King, also known as 'The Stigmacrusher', bravely shares her journey with bipolar disorder on People First Radio. As a keynote speaker and mental health advocate, she opens up about the challenges and liberation that come with discussing her mental health publicly. Her story is one of resilience, having faced misdiagnosis and the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder. Jessica highlights the theme of 'Unmasking Mental Health', a poignant topic for the Canadian Mental Health Association's Mental Health Week.
She explains how masking can be a defence mechanism against judgement, yet unmasking can foster honest conversations and connections. Jessica's experiences offer insight into the importance of disclosure in both personal and professional settings. She encourages testing the waters before unmasking, suggesting subtle cues to gauge if an environment is safe. Her narrative is not just about her struggles but also about her triumphs in breaking down stigma and fostering understanding.
Jessica's candidness provides a unique perspective on living with bipolar disorder and underscores the need for empathy and awareness in mental health discussions. Her advice to those considering unmasking is invaluable, offering practical tips for navigating potentially challenging environments. Listening to Jessica’s story is a reminder that mental illness is complex and individualised. Her journey inspires hope and encourages a more open dialogue about mental health.
So, if you're curious about the real-life experiences behind the masks many wear, this episode is a must-listen.