Instability in Six Colors: “An Inventive way of Exploring Bipolar Disorder”
There are a few online communities for people living with mental illness that really feel like home. For me one of them is To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA). TWLOHA is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery.
I’ve always been moved by the unique narratives and authentic conversations TWLOHA facilitates and fosters in the mental health space. TWLOHA also serves as a source of stability for so many of us that live with mental illness by providing resources and nurturing a feeling of togetherness. From struggles to success stories TWLOHA challenges stigma by amplifying the voices of individuals who might otherwise live in silence and isolation. TWLOHA reassures readers that they are not alone.
When I asked Becky Ebert, editor at TWLOHA, to read and review my book, “Instability in Six Colors,” I was overjoyed and honored when she agreed. She took the time to listen and learn from my six colors; the colors I use to explain and explore the different manifestations of my disorder, my history of trauma, and my relationship with myself. To be heard - to be seen — by an organization you find awe-inspiring and admirable is incredibly empowering. TWLOHA’s review of my bipolar memoir makes me feel like my work is purposeful, hopeful, and can help others.
Here is her review:
“Instability in Six Colors” by Rachel Kallem Whitman is an informative and inventive way of exploring the many experiences that come with Bipolar Disorder. Through personal reflection, that displays itself in the form of prose and vivid retellings, the author invites the reader into a world so few are familiar with or even aware of. Rachel spills her “insider” details without holding little to anything back. The book is emotional, straight-forward, and a stark invitation to unforgivingly view the many shades and hues our mental health struggles can and do take on. This [bipolar disorder] is a lesser-known struggle, but thanks to Whitman, we now have the fortunate opportunity to embark on this journey through her words with the hopes of more adequately understanding this life-long challenge.”
Becky Ebert, Editor at To Write Love on Her Arms
Writing this book was a brutal and beautiful process and it reaffirmed my mission and passion: to help others who struggle with mental illness. To give people language, solidarity, courage, and hope. I hope my readers know that while mental illness is a part of their lives it doesn’t define who they are.
Please consider reading my book. I would love to learn about your colors.
Thanks to TWLOHA for their support!
