Learning, Leaning, Loving: Increasing Support & Ending Stigma Around Mental Health

In 2013, artist and entrepreneur, JJ Long, was diagnosed Bipolar 1 after having a string of manic episodes and delusions and was admitted into a psychiatric ward where he was put on mood stabilizers and antipsychotics to stop the mania. After being discharged from the hospital, he remained on medication for over seven years and began his healing journey with the help of psychologists, psychiatrists, PCP, coaches, and supportive family and friends. On Dec. 31, 2021, JJ was finally able to successfully taper off medications and was medication-free for two and a half years with no manic episodes. During the summer of 2024, however, he endured another unexpected manic episode and was placed back in the psychiatric ward for three weeks. With many lessons learned, JJ continues to move forward in his artistic and entrepreneurial career as he works to expand mental health awareness and advocacy with optimism born from experience. From first signs to situational episodes, JJ will share his experience and thoughts about how to support loved ones, how to advocate for yourself (and others), and ways to end the mental illness stigma by embracing love, practicing kindness, and increasing helpful support for all. Find out more about JJ Long and his art at www.jjartworks.com.