Living with Bipolar II and ADHD means even “simple” self-care can feel impossible. Guided breathing became my unexpected lifeline—a small win I could actually keep. This is how slowing my breath helped steady my mind, soften the lows, and even transform the way I run.

A mental health diagnosis can feel like a punch to your self-esteem, but it doesn’t define your worth. Here’s how I learned to separate my identity from bipolar, ADHD, and depression — and the practical tools that help me move forward with grit, clarity, and compassion.