Dear Dr. Archer,
I have pre-ordered your book from Amazon Kindle and look forward to reading it. I'm 27 years old and have been diagnosed with bipolar 2 and borderline personality. I'm currently participating in DBT, which I am finding useful. I would consider myself successful, despite my illness.
I am a professional trainer of electronic medical record software. I have an undergraduate degree in Applied Science and a Master's degree in Health Science.
I attribute many of my successes to my bipolar disorder, as it often helps with increased productivity and creativity. The last two years have really been about accepting and learning to manage my illnesses, like making sure my depressive episodes aren't too disruptive.
Of course, it's been a difficult road, but I wouldn't change a thing. With kind regards,
Erin
Dear Erin,
What a breath of fresh air your letter was to me! Your diagnosis of Bipolar 2 and Borderline Personality did not do you in, but rather you learned to not only live with your illness, but made them work to your advantage! Bravo!
As you can see, the release date is right around the corner, and I'm so looking forward to helping folks understand that just because they have a diagnosis, doesn't mean failure and misery. Far from it! In fact the trait they are so worried about could be their greatest strength. Anyone can take the
Eight Trait Survey to see where their strengths and weaknesses lie.
You for one, Erin, are ahead of the game, and I congratulate you on that. I truly hope you get as much out of the book as I did while writing it. My goal is to help to dissipate the stigma of mental health, because being different doesn't always mean not being as good. All too often it means being BETTER.
Thank you again for your letter; you made my day. And Erin, when you're through reading 'Better Than Normal,' drop by again and leave a comment. I'd really like to know what you think. Until then, have a terrific future!
Dr. Archer
