(Note: Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings of emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). EMDR is a therapeutic technique that reduces painful emotions and neutralizes bad memories using “bi-lateral stimulation”, usually eye movements.)
The following is from 2 interviews I have had with Laura:
Suzanne: Laura can you paint a picture of how things were before you were diagnosed with bipolar disorder in your late teens?
Laura: I did not know how to function so I took pills. Medication that I got from my father who was a physician. I took speed during the day and Seconal at night to sleep and Darvon to get high. So I would carry them in my pocket and eat them without water just to sustain myself.
Suzanne: To help you with the moods you were having?
Laura: The moods. I was so miserable. Pills helped me function. When I had to go to work I would take Speed.
