I'm Tired of Explaining Bipolar Disorder to Others

I'm tired of explaining bipolar disorder to people. I realize this is a terrible sentiment to one who actually does this for a living, but it's one I've found myself thinking about at times. In some respects, explaining bipolar disorder and mental illness in general to people is extremely rewarding; in other ways, though, it's just a slog. Having the same conversation over and over again about mental illness with someone who has no clue is exhausting.

Explaining Bipolar Disorder to People

I have explained bipolar disorder to crowds of people, in one-on-one scenarios, online, and in pretty much every other way possible. I can do it in my sleep. I can anticipate their questions. I see their initially-confused looks behind my eyelids. While every conversation is different, they are also all strikingly the same. Again, it's making me very, very tired.

However, what I do is explain aspects of bipolar disorder to other people. That's what I do every day of my life. I've created a career from it. I value it, and I think it's important. Myself, and everyone out there, trying to eradicate mental illness myths and supplant them with truths is doing something beautiful. But that doesn't make it easy, nor does it mean I have infinite energy for it.

It's Okay If You Don't Want to Explain Bipolar to People 

For the average person, I just want to say it's okay if you don't want to explain bipolar disorder to other people. If you're tired of it, if you've had enough, I understand. If you just want to walk through your day and not make it a learning experience, that's totally okay. You shouldn't feel like it's your job to educate everyone. Even I, Bipolar Disorder Education in Chief, need a bit of relief sometimes.

Explain Bipolar How You Want, When You Want

I realize the reason that I'm saying I'm tired of explaining bipolar disorder to people is that I'm burned out. This happens to everyone. It might be happening to you. When you do something 1000 times, or even 100 times, it can be a bit much, no matter what it is and no matter how altruistic you might want to be.

So, if you need a break from all the explaining, that's okay. I'm going to try to allow myself a moment of grace and not think about everything as an educational moment. I can just blend in and let things go. And so can you.