According to the World Health Organization, bipolar disorder is one of the top three causes of hospitalization in people aged 15 to 44. It’s estimated that 5% of the world’s population is on the bipolar spectrum and of that 5%, only 1 to 2% are diagnosed. And while those percentages may seem small, with over 8 billion people currently in the world, we are talking about over 400 million people with bipolar brains.

It’s far more common than you think. In the US alone, around 4.4% of adults deal with or develop bipolar disorder, and the numbers show it impacts more females than males.

I sat down with author and fimmaker Sara Schley to talk about her experience with bipolar disorder and how she has turned what she calls her broken into a blessing as she serves the world by spreading knowledge and resources for those who believe there’s little hope out there. In fact, that’s the furthest from the truth. So, whether you have a diagnosis, know someone who does, or has it genetically within your family, this moving, impactful conversation is filled with understanding, truths, science, and community.

Imagine finding yourself ripped from the only home you’ve ever known, only to be reunited with your birth mother, whom you have no bond or recollection. This is only the beginning of Rhonda Miller’s incredible life story. A story that has been defined by unbelievable lows, undefinable strength, and a fighting spirit that is truly second to none. This is a story of seeking connection, abuse, making the painstaking choice to help raise her younger sister when she, herself, was only just a child, stepping up to be the parent she never had, experiencing a tremendous mental health break and crisis, to finding her power, passion, and purpose. A purpose that literally saved her life. Rhonda walks us through her story and the life revolution of healing, finding herself, choosing to live through her paintbrush, and showing the world we are more than our story. *This episode contains content only suitable for adult audiences.