In an era where mental health conversations are gaining traction, the voices of those affected by these problems are becoming increasingly important. The stigma related to mental illness prevents many people from revealing they have a disorder, compelling them to suffer the pain in isolation silently. Onya Page’s poetry collection “Hiding Behind My Bipolar Mask” explores the experience of living with Bipolar II disorder.
People who raise their voices, increase awareness, and advocate for mental health issues are vital to demystify myths and break social stigma while encouraging others to share their experiences related to mental health issues. Page’s poetry collection not only provides insight into the emotional landscape of people who have bipolar disorder but also serves as a beacon of understanding and solidarity for readers going through similar experiences.
Mental health awareness is crucial today due to the rising prevalence. With increased awareness of mental health issues, there is a greater need for authentic accounts that depict individuals’ actual experiences. Millions of people worldwide have bipolar disorder, characterized by significant mood swings that interfere with their personal and professional lives. Onya Page’s work sheds light on this sometimes misunderstood disorder, offering both a personal reflection and a broader commentary on the difficulties faced by people who have bipolar disorder.
Onya Page was born in Hampton, Virginia, on January 24, 1958. Her academic journey led her to an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts, which became the basis for her diverse professional interests. She currently works as a sales consultant for a Fortune 500 medical company, juggling her corporate responsibilities with her enthusiasm for the arts.
Page’s artistic abilities extend beyond poetry; she is also well-known for her jewelry and artwork, earning her prominence as an artist in her community. Her creative efforts are more than just hobbies; they are integral to her personality, allowing her to express herself and connect with others.
Onya Page, who was diagnosed with Bipolar II disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD, suffers a complex set of mental health challenges. These situations, while tough, became an inspiration for her writing. Writing is a therapeutic practice for Page since it allows her to investigate and describe her experiences. This creative approach enables her to turn personal adversities into a medium that speaks to others suffering similar challenges.
Onya Page’s career as an author began in her teens, but she never considered herself a writer. Her early writing habits included discarding her work for fear of being judged. Despite writing significantly during her adolescence and throughout her adult life, Page frequently threw away her writing work to avoid others’ judgment.
A prominent turning point in Page’s life was her divorce ten years ago. This life-changing event influenced her to retain her writing rather than discard it. Her psychiatrist encouraged her to organize her work into a book. Page began considering her writings valuable insights that could help others rather than just personal musings. This epiphany marked the start of her journey to complete and publish “Hiding Behind My Bipolar Mask.”
Onya Page’s poetry collection, “Hiding Behind My Bipolar Mask,” is a thorough investigation of the bipolar condition, emphasizing emotional resilience and the quest for understanding. The book’s primary theme encompasses the complexities of living with bipolar disorder, and readers get a candid glimpse at the emotional highs and lows that come with the disorder.
The book has a potentially broad audience, ranging from those interested in bipolar disorder to members of the mental health community. The book also has a strong appeal in the medical field, providing valuable insights into the patient experience that could improve empathy and understanding among healthcare personnel.
The book is structurally a collection of primarily non-rhyming poetry distinguished for its clarity and emotional depth. Each poem elicits a strong emotional response, making the complex experiences of bipolar disease understandable to a broad range of people. Onya Page’s book, “Hiding Behind My Bipolar Mask,” attempts to de-stigmatize mental illness and encourage more understanding and empathy. Her poems offer companionship and comfort to individuals facing similar challenges, reminding them that they are not alone on their journey.
Page hopes to expand her advocacy for mental health through her art, poetry, and books in the future. She is writing her second book, which revolves around grief and loss. The book was inspired by her daughter’s untimely death from an accidental overdose. Page’s daughter was her only child and was also bipolar and used to write like her mother. Page thinks that by continuing to write, she could become a more vocal champion for mental health, encouraging open discussions and removing the stigma associated with mental illness.
Onya Page’s experience as an author and advocate demonstrates the transformational potential of artistic expression in dealing with mental health issues. Her writing and art not only shed light on the personal hardships associated with bipolar disorder but also serve as a source of hope and perseverance for those going through similar experiences.
Onya Page’s drive for writing stems from her personal experiences with mental health challenges. Her experiences with bipolar disease and other conditions have given her a distinct perspective, which she incorporates into her poetry. Her message to readers is one of optimism and solidarity. Page hopes her book will inspire others facing similar challenges to open up, get treatment, and realize they are not alone. By sharing her story and experiences, she hopes to reassure and inspire others to pursue their own paths of recovery and self-discovery.
“Hiding Behind My Bipolar Mask“ is more than just a collection of poems; it is a beacon of hope, understanding, and solidarity for people dealing with mental health complexities. Page’s genuine observations and sincere rhymes help readers better understand bipolar disorder and the resilience needed to conquer its obstacles.
People can read “Hiding Behind My Bipolar Mask” to get a better understanding of the realities of bipolar disorder and to be inspired by Onya Page’s persistent tenacity and advocacy. Her work is a compelling reminder that we are never alone in our trials, even in times of darkness.
As a strong advocate for mental health awareness, Page is dedicated to demystifying mental illness and shedding light on the often-overlooked problems of those suffering from disorders such as Bipolar II Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and OCD. Through her poems, she hopes to promote a more inclusive and empathic understanding of mental health, open communication, and support for individuals affected by these disorders.
Published by: Josh Tatunay
