What My Roommate Taught Me About Mental Illness | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

What My Roommate Taught Me About Mental Illness

These are a textbook won't teach you

47
What My Roommate Taught Me About Mental Illness
Makayla Mowel

I know I've talked about one of my roommates before and listed why she's my best friend. However, I wanted to talk about another roommate of mine and our experience together. When I was assigned my roommates, I was obviously worried about if they would like me. I worried if we would get along and become friends. I never imagined having a roommate who would teach me so much just by being herself.

When I met Olivia, she was very open about her mental illness. Olivia was diagnosed with Type 2 Bipolar Disorder. She wanted to warn us about her bipolar disorder when we all first moved in freshman year. I thought this would negatively effect me, but really it has made me a better person.

One thing that Olivia has taught me is that you can't give up. No matter how difficult the battle is, you just gotta push through. As cliché as it sounds, she often reminds me that there's a light at the end of the tunnel. She's a very strong willed young woman that has been through more than anyone should ever go through. Honestly, she should be a role model to people who suffer from any mental illness when they need strength or comfort.

When it comes to self care, Olivia is there to remind me that my mental health comes before everything else. I could be having a depressing day and she'll remind me that I still have to live my life. The other day the only reason I could even push myself to go to class is because Olivia sat there while I sobbed my eyes out and told me I was going to feel worse if I didn't. Sometimes I forget that I need to put myself first, but she helps me get back in line.

The greatest knowledge she's given me is everything about bipolar disorder. Olivia has educated me on a mental illness I wasn't fully aware of. I had heard of it, but knew I didn't have it so I didn't put in the effort to research it. She hasn't shown me what movies or a textbook would. She has shown me what it's like to actually live with it and have to cope with what it throws at you.

I have had the pleasure of living with Olivia again this year and she continues to teach me new things about myself as well as ways to look at the world. Olivia, you are really great to me. I don't know if I could handle some days without you. You are not only my roommate, but one of my greatest assets in my recovery. I know we don't get very mushy or feeling, but I love yah. You're a life saver. Please continue to keep strong through everything life throws at you. (Also please don't kill me for the photo I went with. It's like one of our only ones)

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

14946
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

6482
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

4793
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4217
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments