- Nikki Bower’s debut book, “Memoirs of a Bi-polar Bear,” seeks to break stigmas surrounding bipolar disorder, shedding light on the condition’s challenges and strengths.
- Inspired by her personal journey with bipolar disorder since age 14, Bower’s book aims to inspire hope and solidarity among those affected.
- The book’s therapeutic writing process allowed Bower to reflect on her experiences, from dark times to moments of empowerment, and is set to be released soon on Amazon.
According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) bipolar disorder affects a significant 1% of South Africa’s population, ranking sixth globally as a leading cause of disability.
The complex mental health condition is characterised by extreme fluctuations in mood, energy and behaviour, involving episodes of severe mania and depression. Mood swings can range from intensely “high” and irritable to profoundly sad and hopeless, with periods of normalcy in between.
However, a Helderberg resident living with bipolar disorder is set to shatter stigmas with her debut book, “Memoirs of a Bi-polar Bear”. The courageous author aims not only to raise awareness and understanding of the condition, but also to inspire hope and solidarity among those affected, highlighting that being bipolar can be a unique strength and blessing. By sharing her personal journey she hopes to let others know they are not alone and that there is support and resilience to be found.
Nikki Bower reckons that those on the transformative journey can rise from the depths of despair to the heights of superheroism with an invisible cloak of resilience. “When the upswings strike, you can achieve what may seem like the impossible. Hold onto this power and claw your way back up to find your cloak again.”
The 55-year-old from Somerset West proudly shares that the book was inspired by real-life experiences, as she has been struggling with Bipolar Disorder since the tender age of 14.
“This is my first book, and it’s special because it shares my personal journey with bipolar disorder. I’ve been through dark times, including attempting suicide and ending up in comas and psychiatric hospitals. But I’ve also experienced the highs of being bipolar and have learnt to see it as a strength.”
20 years
According to Bower it took her about 20 years to write the book. “I started writing it two decades ago, but my computer was stolen, and I thought it was not meant to be. Then, four months ago I found a hard copy of my writing among my car papers, and I was overjoyed. I picked up my pen and started writing again, and it’s been a hard but empowering journey. My editor is still working on the final proof, but I’m proud of myself for sharing my story.”
Writing “Memoirs of a Bi-polar Bear” was a therapeutic experience for Bower, allowing her to reflect on her journey and how far she’s come. She has had highs and lows, from thriving in high-powered jobs in Johannesburg to re-inventing herself after a hospital stay and relocating. With determination the book will soon be a reality. “As my dad always said, if you are going to do something, do it properly and see it through to the end.
The book will soon be available on Amazon, and Bower is already taking pre-orders – simply send an email to nicolabowerct@gmail.com.
She has also been invited to two book festivals in July and November, and plans to approach bookstores once feedback has been received.
- What is your favourite book?
Nostradamus - In your opinion what makes a good book?
Intensive dreaming?.?.?. getting lost in another world.
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Any advice you’d like to share with other aspiring writers?Just do it, don’t wait, don’t feel insecure. There are readers out there; something for everyone, so ultimately your book will be read!
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What spurred your love for writing and desire to be an author?English was always my strongest subject and I loved writing essays (well, that was between running away and then having to go back to school; I eventually wrote matric through distance learning). I never really saw myself as being able to accomplish such a book, because I always worked so hard and was too exhausted.
