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Volunteer

Jennifer

Expertise

I can answer general questions related to type I, II, S.A.D., questions from individuals diagnosed bipolar or feel that they may be bipolar, questions from family & friends about bipolar disorder, and questions about social issues relating to bipolar disorder.

Experience

I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder type II in 2000; \as a SSI beneficiary, have experience and knowledge of the limitations and processes involved with the program; I understand the moods, the feelings, the worries, the doubts, and a lot more that there's not enough room to express - from the personal experiences of being bipolar. I have first-hand experience with the challenges of returning to college following hospitalizations and various combinations of medications that were tried before my doctor and I finally arrived at the most effective medication program for my treatment. My family and I have learned so much about each other in the process of dealing with the highs and lows that followed my diagnosis. I've had relationships with someone who also is bipolar and someone that is not - romantic relationships are no easier on either side! I feel that many of the ideas and beliefs that people have regarding bipolar disorder and those who have the condition promote the continuation of social stigmas associated with mental illness in general, and after learning from others with bipolar disorder in addition to my personal experiences, hope to guide others who may be trying to navigate the government health care system (I am most familiar with Medi-Cal, as a California resident), what to expect during the process when applying for SSI and options that can be pursued if the SSA has denied an application & other possible means of obtaining assistance with the cost of medications and/or mental health services and limited financial assistance programs for meeting basic living expenses for qualified individuals, dealing with problems from or with family & loved ones, co-occurring substance abuse problems, medications and side-effects (and when it feels like nothing will work, or why it's not helping the situation to ask whether or not a patient has taken their 'meds' when they seem hostile or moody to those around them) - In summary - bipolar disorder isn't easy for the patient or the people in their lives; both sides can benefit from considering each others' perspective.

Education/Credentials
I have a B.A. in Liberal Arts and currently am a 2nd year law student. I am involved in the arbitrator/mediator program at my law school campus, and currently have focused on medical/healthcare systems (both public and private) in the legal environment for my 2nd year studies.

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