I was diagnosed with Bipolar Type 1 in 2001, following two psychotic episodes in India. Twelve years later, I experienced two more breaks, all of which resulted in admissions to various psychiatric wards under the Mental Health Act 1982, Section Two.

In many cultures, psychosis is viewed not as a mental illness but as a Spiritual Emergency. My own experiences reflected this perspective. I felt as though a veil was being lifted to reveal a deeper reality, allowing me to see, hear, and experience life in a more profound and enlightened way. While this was at times awe-inspiring, it was also accompanied by fear and uncertainty.

I've encountered a number of “Dark Nights of the Soul,” some of which felt like an ego death, and others like a re-enactment of past trauma. During the night that I have represented in this piece, I was convinced that my daughter had been killed, that my legs had been broken, and that I was blinded by fear. Through years of reflection, I now view these episodes as both a rapid spiritual journey and a mental health condition in need of treatment. I believe a more comprehensive understanding is needed—one that bridges both the spiritual and mental health aspects, which is currently lacking.

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