‘I'd go from being extremely happy, only to wake feeling lost’

Hi, I'm Johno, a military veteran. I left the military with a crush injury, and I struggled to settle into civilian life.

I couldn't connect with people, I drank too much, I went from job to job, and I couldn't hold down relationships. Eventually, I was admitted to the hospital for my safety. I was released 10 weeks later.

A psychiatrist suggested at that time that I may have a bipolar diagnosis, but because I served in the military, I was diagnosed with PTSD.

A diagnosis of bipolar helped things make sense  

Over the following 15 years, after hundreds of mental health appointments and therapy, I was recently and formally diagnosed with bipolar disorder and PTSD.

It all made sense. I'd go from being extremely happy and outgoing, only to wake up the next morning feeling lost, desperate, and wanting to end it all.

I’m highly creative

I'm highly creative, working part-time as an actor on stage and TV, and I spend a significant amount of time managing my YouTube channel, On Parade UK. I find art is a great healer.

Several years ago, I wrote a monologue about my life in the military and my mental health, weaving it into Shakespearean verse.

It was a gamble, but it paid off, and I have been fortunate enough to perform this several times at the prestigious Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare's Globe.

Today I'm connected to Bipolar UK’s support groups, and I'm glad that they have got my back. I'm eternally grateful.

A message to anyone reading who’s struggling

We are all wonderful human beings with beautiful souls. Dig deep, be honest with yourself, you might be surprised what God-given talent is hiding within.

Peace and love!