Manic depressive publishes life story

Susan Splaine, author of 'Darkened Light'

A manic-depressive woman who has battled with her emotions all her life has published a book about her experience.

Susan Splaine, 33 from Smithybridge, grew up a neglected sibling of five and claims to have been bullied by her closest family members, leading her into a reclusive, depressive state.

Three psychiatrists have diagnosed Susan's bipolar depression and she describes how this feels throughout the book; the way she goes through life in periods of manic euphoria and suicidal depression.

The book is illustrated with Susan's own drawings and paintings, describing her thoughts in minutest detail.

Susan said: "The pictures I have drawn for my book show my thoughts, feelings, emotions and sentiments. I describe myself as a dark, mysterious, secretive person.

"I have had thoughts that I might have been a Viking in a past life; I have tough, violent traits.

"During my manic phases I overestimate my personal ability. I become deceitful; see a side to me that is manipulative and crafty. At these times I do not have a conscience. I want to be bad.

"At other times I am overtaken by a great euphoria. I become obsessed about something; I have delusions about whatever I'm obsessive about. Thoughts and ideas preoccupy my mind and I lose touch with reality."

Darkened Light is published by Chipmunkapublishing Ltd, priced £17.