Invisible struggles: How bipolar disorder has destabilised my life

Wanjiku Gacheru, aka LG Shiks, a travel curator, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2017. Since then, her life has been a rollercoaster of challenges. She shared her story with SILAS NYAMWEYA.

Kindly introduce yourself

My name is Wanjiku Gacheru, also known as LG Shiks. I am a passionate travel curator and a skilled photographer. I am also a mother of two, living with bipolar disorder type II.

Tell us about your journey with bipolar disorder.

It has been over eight years since I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. In the first few years, I struggled a lot, experiencing between two and four relapses a year. My last major relapse was in June 2021 when I was reported as a missing person. I had been managing well until I lost my brother late last year. I have not been able to pick myself up since.

How has this condition affected your personal life and business?

Bipolar disorder has affected my life in every way, particularly my business. I run my businesses alone, and due to frequent depressive episodes and unexpected hospital admissions, sometimes lasting months, I often lose business.

Where have you sought treatment for your condition?

I have been receiving medical treatment at Chiromo Medical Hospital and Mathari Hospital.

You recently posted on social media about financial struggles, including being unable to pay rent. How did you reach this point?

My situation worsened after my brother’s sudden passing on on October 15, 2024. He was involved in an accident, and because all accident-related fatalities in Nairobi are taken to City Mortuary, I was asked to help identify his body. The experience was deeply traumatic, given how close we were.

Being the firstborn in my family, the loss took a huge toll on me, mentally and financially. I have not been able to work since then, which has led to mounting financial constraints, including rent arrears, unpaid school fees, and other bills. I live from hand to mouth, which is why I reached out to well-wishers for support.

What kind of support would you need from well-wishers?

I would appreciate help in clearing my rent arrears, as I have already been locked out of my house. Additionally, my travel website, villagegirladventures.com, was deactivated due to non-payment of hosting fees. I would appreciate assistance in restoring it.

I am also seeking help to clear my daughter’s school fees and to afford my medication, which is quite costly. Any financial support would mean the world to me.

What has been your overall experience as a bipolar survivor?

Bipolar disorder can completely destabilise one’s life. I could be doing well, but I have realised that I am often just one trigger away from sinking into a dark place.

How do you think society and the government should support people like you?

The government should subsidise the cost of mental health medication and establish more intensive awareness campaigns across all counties. Society also needs to be educated on mental health issues so that people with these conditions are treated with kindness and given the necessary support.

Your parting shot?

Invisible is not imaginary.