Charise Jewell: Embracing Bipolar Disorder with Resilience and Creativity
My call to action is for people to listen to what they hear, both in regular everyday conversation and on tv or on the radio, and listen from the perspective of, if you had a mental illness, how you might feel about certain comments or jokes, and sometimes they're not particularly offensive, but sometimes they really are, and it's kind of hidden in this shroud of humor, but it's really not funny for a person with a mental illness.
Ever wondered how someone can turn a challenging mental health diagnosis into a thriving life? Charise Jewell's story is a testament to resilience and creativity. Born in South Africa and moving to Canada at a young age, Charise's journey is anything but ordinary. With an Honours degree in mechanical engineering from McGill University, she spent fifteen years in the robotics field before transitioning to writing. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder later in life, Charise didn't let it define her.
Instead, she embraced her condition and used it as a catalyst for change. In this episode of 'Ruthless Compassion', Dr. Marcia Sirota sits down with Charise to discuss her life and mission. They dive into the hurdles Charise faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry and how she navigated medication and treatment. Charise shares how creativity became her lifeline, helping her manage her mental health and find purpose.
Charise's advocacy for the dignified treatment of the mentally ill is both inspiring and thought-provoking. She urges people to be mindful of their words and jokes, as seemingly harmless comments can deeply affect those with mental illnesses. Her call to action is clear: listen with empathy and understand the hidden pain behind humor. This episode isn't just about Charise's personal journey; it's a broader conversation about perspective, resilience, and the power of creativity in overcoming adversity.
Whether you're dealing with a mental health issue yourself or supporting someone who is, Charise's insights offer valuable lessons on thriving despite the odds.