When I was 17, I experienced a life-changing manic episode. Deep in psychosis, I had a traumatizing month-long hospitalization and was diagnosed with Bipolar I Disorder.

The stigma behind the illness made me ashamed of my identity, but through the darkness art saved me, and the cracked skull was born. I felt shattered but creating my art taught me: even when it feels you have broken pieces, you are whole.

"Hypomania: Distractibility" collection is one of a three-part series educating about the symptoms of hypomania to destigmatize bipolar disorder. If you have Bipolar 1 Disorder, like me, you are prone to mania. Learning my warning signs for hypomania (which comes before mania) is crucial has helped me learn more about my mental health and avoid mania/hospitalization. This collection aims to educate about bipolar disorder and eliminate stigma.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the International Bipolar Foundation.

You are not alone, and you are whole.