A BRAVE NHS worker whose life changed when she was diagnosed with a serious mental health illness has written a book revealing the emotional pain she suffered while in recovery.
Julia Morgan’s book titled, A Woman’s Poetic Manual, is a collection of poems describing what she went through while suffering from bipolar disorder at the same time as bringing up a young family.
Bipolar, commonly known in the past as manic depression, is a condition which can affect a person’s moods which can swing from one extreme to another.
The illness can cause a person to have several episodes of depression and, unlike simple mood swings, each extreme episode of bipolar disorder can last for several weeks or longer.
Julia’s condition was so serious she was sectioned under the Mental Health Act on three separate occasions while also enduring two marriage breakdowns.
Julia, who works as a receptionist at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital, shares with readers some touching moments and experiences while she was recovering and at the same time looking after two children.
The book also includes illustrations by Pat Handley.
Speaking to the Observer, Julia said she started writing the book while still in recovery from the illness and hoped it would help others going through the same pain barrier as she once felt.
“I just wanted to write something to help and inspire other people currently suffering the way I did,” she said.
“Beforehand I didn’t know I could write if I am being honest, but it just came together in my head. I didn’t have any intention of publishing the poems until my friends read them and recommended me to have them published.
“I hope the book makes people think that they are not alone and it is possible to make a full recovery like I did. It is possible to recover if you stay determined, positive and always have hope.
“I think the reader will appreciate it. I’m very proud to have written something like this and seeing the final version feels very rewarding and therapeutic.
“With every sale from each book I will give a donation to mental health charity Bipolar UK as a way of giving something back.”
The book, which costs £8, is available to buy online at Amazon or from Malvern publishing firm Aspect Design in Newtown Road.
