Janine shares how writing about her own mental health crises in an MFA program helped her see that illness can be written, shared, and received (mostly) without shame. She currently teaches classes on writing the hard stuff—but to do so, you’ve got to start reading some nonfiction. In this episode she highlights four standout memoirs on mental illness. For more on Janine’s upcoming class, visit BipolarShe.com and sign up to be notified when enrollment opens.

Sure, I’ll Join Your Cult by Maria Bamford
Wry humor, short chapters, and visual elements temper the intensity of Maria Bamford’s memoir. It’s no surprise an actor and comedian has brilliantly pulled this off.

Burn Rate: Launching a Startup and Losing My Mind by Andy Dunn
Andy Dunn writes directly about bipolar I disorder, masterfully letting us into mania, psychosis, and the damage a mental health crisis can cause.

My Lovely Wife in the Psych Ward by Mark Lukach
Mark Lukach tells the story of his wife’s sudden onset of severe mental illness, how he navigated the overwhelm, revealing what it’s like for family to confront bipolar disorder

I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
Jennette McCurdy’s memoir is a strong example of scene-based writing and a good read for a new writer—dialogue and behavior can do heavy lifting.

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Bipolar She is dedicated to real conversations for women living with mental illness. Hosted by Janine Noel, the majority of episodes give voice to a woman who has lived-life experience with mental illness--or who has experienced the illness of someone close to them. Along the way, I interview experts in the field that address additional mental health concerns.

Frankly, coping with a mental health condition can be exhausting. Here's a place where you can land and find an episode that resonates with you. Some topics we've covered: being a bipolar mom or having a bipolar mom. Anxiety, agoraphobia, chronic depression, ECT, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, a psychiatrist that breaks your trust. A therapist who goes above and beyond to help you. The impact of trauma on your brain.

Bipolar She couldn't have thrived without guitarist, JD Cullum's original music.

Editor Brandon Moran makes everyone's voice sound both crisper and smarter.

Sponsored by Amy Vincze's Emotional Freedom Technique App: Soar With Tapping.