“I never gave up on myself” | Life with Mental Health Challenges

Yel Oropesa can almost predict when her depressive episodes will hit. Roughly every three weeks, she experiences a period lasting about two weeks when functioning becomes incredibly difficult. But before understanding these patterns, she went through more than 20 doctors and four years of medication that didn't seem to work. What she initially believed was depression was later diagnosed as Bipolar II Disorder, alongside ADHD. In this episode of Off the Record, Yel shares her journey through misdiagnosis, treatment, and learning to live with her mental health conditions. She opens up about the challenges of finding the right support, recognizing her patterns, and navigating everyday life. ⚠️ Content Warning & Disclaimer This episode contains discussions of self-harm, depression, and mental health struggles. The experiences, medications, and opinions shared are based on the guest's personal journey and should not be considered professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. 💚 Mental Health Support Resources (Philippines) If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges or needs emotional support, the following organizations may be able to help: 1. In Touch Community Services (24/7 Crisis Hotline) Free, anonymous, and confidential emotional support. Landline: (02) 8893-7603 Smart: 0919-056-0709 Globe: 0917-800-1123 Globe: 0917-108-5412 Website: https://www.in-touch.org 2. DSWD WiSUPPORT Psychosocial first aid, emotional support, and referrals to mental health professionals. Text: 0918-912-2813 Email: WiSupport@dswd.gov.ph Availability: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except holidays 3. Quezon City Helpline (24/7) Free, confidential psychosocial support for individuals in Quezon City. Hotline: 122 4. Philippine Mental Health Association (PMHA) Mental health education, professional services, and longer-term support. Website: https://www.pmha.org.ph Please note that some services operate during specific hours. If you are in immediate danger, seek emergency assistance. 🎬 Watch More from Off the Record Visit our second YouTube channel, @OTRBeyondBorders, for documentaries exploring important social issues in the Philippines, including our documentary about gambling. ----------------------------------- 🌐 Visit Our Website ----------------------------------- https://www.otr-collective.com/ ----------------------------------- 💸 Save with Those Best Deals ----------------------------------- https://linke.to/OTRDiskwento ----------------------------------- 👥 Guest Information ----------------------------------- Yel Oropesa | Mental Health Advocate Guest Social Media: Instagram:   / yeloropesa_   TikTok:   / yeloropesa   YouTube:    / yeloropesa   ----------------------------------- 👥 Want to Be a Guest? ----------------------------------- Do you have a personal story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Message our official Facebook page or fill out our guest application form. Facebook:   / offtherecordcreatives   Guest Form: https://link.vonas-media.com/OTRGuest... ----------------------------------- 🙏🏼 Video Sponsor ----------------------------------- Sign up for HypeHive here: https://linke.to/otr30 ----------------------------------- 🫵 Poster Program ----------------------------------- Want free digital transformation support for your business? Join our Poster Program! Send us a message through our Facebook page:   / offtherecordcreatives   ----------------------------------- 🔗 Social Media & Private Messages ----------------------------------- Follow us and stay connected: https://linke.to/otrlinks ----------------------------------- 🧑‍💻 Middleman Referral Program ----------------------------------- Know someone with a story that deserves to be heard? Refer them to Off the Record and earn a referral incentive for every approved guest! Referral Form: https://link.vonas-media.com/OTRMiddl ----------------------------------- ℹ️ About Off the Record ----------------------------------- Off the Record features the stories of Filipinos with distinct and remarkable experiences. Through honest conversations, we explore personal struggles, challenges, and triumphs that offer a deeper understanding of Filipino society and the people who shape it. #documentary #philippines #otr #offtherecord #interview #offtherecordinterviews #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #depression #bipolar2 #bipolardisorder #ADHD #YelOropesa