NOTE FROM TED: Please do not look to this talk as a substitute for medical advice and consult a mental health professional if you are struggling. This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of mental health, which some viewers may find alienating. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdf

Sara Schley challenges stereotypes of Bipolar disorder and offers empathy, compassion, and community as tools to help those who are on the Bipolar spectrum. Sara Schley is a force of nature. Smart, thoughtful, bold, she works fearlessly to better the environment and make the world a kinder, more loving place. A tremendous writer as well as an engaging speaker, Sara is unafraid to share both her triumphs and her failures in order to help people and the planet heal. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx