Bipolar Music Teacher
Bipolar disorder came into my life during high school, but I would not be diagnosed for twenty years thereafter. Until then, I could be combative, rude, pushy, defensive, paranoid, and more. I had very weak social skills owing to years of isolation following a move across town. I did manage to excel academically and musically, as I had many outstanding mentors who remain supportive to this day. Doors opened, and I got a ticket out.
I went to college and soon worked during my summer months at various theme parks. It was during my sophomore year that I began to experience serious symptoms of mental illness, lashing out at my professors and many of my fellow students. Somehow, I eventually behaved and later became extremely successful, despite continued issues caused by mental illness.
A fraternity brother helped me get a job at a music store in downtown Chicago. My behavior at work was obnoxious and unprofessional. My boss humored me. I started to produce music using a system I had purchased from a friend from work. It was fun to try to produce music. I made a demo and shopped it around to various companies. I was not that good at the time, so I was rejected completely.
My first marriage caused a rift between me and my family because of a disagreement between the families. My condition did not help at all. Soon, my future ex-wife was working as a temporary employee. She suggested I do the same. I quit my job and followed suit. In addition to my temporary work, I joined a new band and was playing at all hours.
A performance in a rough part of town resulted in me getting mugged at 4AM. I tried like mad to turn the gun on the mugger before his partner punched me twice in the head. I jumped out of the van and ran like hell. I found the local police station, but I had no description of the muggers, so they could do nothing.
After several auditions, I got a job as a musician with the Air Force. My mental illness continued to worsen, leading to many career issues. After four years, my future ex-wife was threatening me with divorce if I didn’t leave the Air Force. I did decide to move to New York City to pursue voice lessons.
Just prior to 9/11, we moved to Florida. We eventually produced a demo and sent it to an agent. The agent recommended we pursue work at Disney. My future ex-wife rejected the idea.
At the same time, I had begun an MBA program. I now wish I had not, but I was severely mentally ill and had no idea what I was doing. Nothing was making sense. I even flunked a class and had to retake it. Upon graduation, I had ten related job interviews, but failed at every turn. Through some miracle, I managed to find one full-time job and four part-time jobs.
About this time, my grandmother was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She and my grandfather had dealt with the condition for many years of marriage, but never understood what was happening. In response, my mother called my future ex-wife suggesting that I be examined for bipolar disorder as well. The psychiatrist I met agreed with the diagnosis.
Following my diagnosis in 2005, I landed a 4-month contract as a musician with Carnival Cruise Lines. Returning home, I got in a big fight with my future ex-wife, packed up, and left. Later, I had misgivings and returned, but she had decided not to take me back, so I went home again.
In the Fall of 2006, I accepted a graduate assistantship at a nearby university. This experience as a teacher led to an interest in teaching as a career. I became a substitute teacher and worked at many schools in my area. Soon, while providing services to her company, I met my future wife. We talked on the phone and dated long-distance for three years. During that time, I informed her of my condition. Three years later, we married and began our life together.
I worked several jobs, but remembered my passion for teaching. I enrolled in a transitional certification program, taking several classes, and meeting a student who expressed dismay at her issues with anxiety. She later assaulted me and we were placed under a no contact order. I realized how serious the situation was and continue be most concerned.
Completing my coursework, I began student teaching at a local elementary school. I did well and am looking forward to the next phase of student teaching. Following, I should be ready for an outstanding career. I will, of course, continue treatment and therapy. My life should be better than ever.
