After being offered a job at a ramen shop in Atlanta, I accepted despite the low pay and lack of glamour. At 27, with a recent breakup, a bipolar disorder diagnosis, and a move from NYC to my grandfather’s basement, I needed a fresh start. My high-profile nonprofit job had become too stressful, leading me to trade it in for a simpler role serving noodles.
Despite my qualifications, finding another job proved difficult. Like many “zillennials,” I was overqualified yet underemployed. So, I embraced the temporary nature of my new role, telling myself I wouldn’t be serving noodles forever.
With a stable medication routine for my bipolar II disorder, I started my job at the ramen shop. It was a welcome change from the constant stress of my previous position. Taking orders, delivering food, and interacting with customers brought me a sense of peace I hadn’t felt in years.
Two months into the job, I experienced a manic episode. Despite being stable on my medication, breakthrough symptoms can still occur. I took a few days off to recover, adjusting my medication dosage with the guidance of my psychiatrist.
Returning to work, I decided to be open about my mental health struggles. Sharing my story with a coworker was a pivotal moment, as it was the first time I felt truly seen and supported in a workplace setting.
My journey with bipolar disorder has taught me that success is not just about career achievements. The ramen shop may not have “fixed” me, but it provided structure, connection, and an opportunity to prioritize my well-being over societal expectations of success.
Whether I continue working at the ramen shop for the short or long term is less important than prioritizing my stability and self-care. This experience has shown me that work doesn’t have to be a calling to be valuable; sometimes, it’s simply a means to get through the day.
Through my journey, I’ve learned to embrace my bipolar disorder as a part of who I am, rather than a barrier to success. It has led me to a place of greater self-awareness and acceptance, allowing me to find fulfillment in the present moment.
Amaris Ramey is a Black queer writer, content creator, and mental health advocate from the South who writes stories about identity, family, and belonging. Follow them on Instagram and TikTok @radmadgrad.
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