Dear Ms. Simone

Dear Ms. Simone,

You had to endure an incredibly difficult life with a demanding musical career all while suffering with a mental illness, bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is defined as causing unusual shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. It not only takes a toll on your emotions but also on your ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. In your life, it was aggravated by the loneliness you felt as a child, the abuse your husband inflicted upon you, your demanding career, and your incredibly admirable passion for civil rights. Ultimately, you ostracized yourself from your family and friends.

As an African American who was diagnosed with a mental illness at a very young age, I cannot imagine how you lived without help or treatment. Though my parents were opposed to medication, I received treatment for years in the form of therapy, ultimately allowing me to live a happy life. You, however, were not happy. Your life, though tragic in many ways, is a testimony to the necessity of diagnosing and treating mental illnesses in the African American community.

The African American community has suffered and continues to suffer under the devastating effects of undiagnosed mental illnesses. As African Americans, we are supposed to be strong, invincible, and unbreakable.  We are supposed to handle our problems in silence without tears and without help. This, however, is simply an unreasonable and unhealthy standard for all, especially those who live with a mental illness. Though you had an incredibly difficult life, I hope that you can take a little comfort knowing that your story continues to fight for the African American community even as you fought for it throughout your career.

I commend you for living with the tremendous burden you had to bear.

Sincerely,

Taylor Wright