> Byte sized interview: Seaneen Molloy
- 12 Jul 07, 03:47 PM
Seaneen Molloy is 21, originally from Northern Ireland and now living in London. She was diagnosed as being bipolar in 2006. She writes the highly acclaimed blog, Pole to Polar: The secret life of a manic depressive. She is currently temping, and is working as a shortlister for the BBC Mental Health Media Awards.
Q: What are your favourite websites?
Right now, I love playing with Last FM. It is a great way to find new music to listen to. I also like Mood Garden, which is a forum for discussing mental health issues.
Q: What is your least favourite website?
There isn’t one as such but in general, I don’t like websites that carry a lot of advertising. A lot of bi-polar people have a self-image problem, and not being able to turn off “get thin quick” ads and the like is annoying.
Another thing I hate is that it is far too easy to buy things online but much less convenient to send things back. Sometimes, someone who is bipolar can go on shopping sprees without considering the consequences when in the manic phase. All too often I’ve woken up with an “Amazon Hangover” because of their 'one-click' buying facility...
Q: What was the last thing you bought online?
A wedding dress! Don’t ask me why, it seemed like a good idea at the time. Something I absolutely had to have, and it seemed a totally logical decision at the time. Rather than just letting it go to waste, I sometimes wear it around the house.
Q: What's the most adventurous thing you've done on the web recently?
I think I would have to say that it is writing my blog. It is very liberating to talk about how I feel, and chat with others who can relate to my experiences. Also, people tell me it helps them as well, which is great. On the other hand, I have forfeited my privacy, which I do regret a bit. Being bipolar is often the first thing someone finds out about me.
Q: What are your favourite blogs?
I really like The Wife of a Schizophrenic. She blogs about how it impacts on their relationship, and her dealings with the mental health services. She’s so honest and really strong, and doesn’t let the system beat her. I also really like Nee Naw, a blog by a London Ambulance dispatcher – you wouldn’t believe some of the calls he has to deal with.
Q: Have you ever heard of Facebook?
I love Facebook – I’m drawing graffiti on someone’s profile as I speak! It’s a really good way of staying in touch with friends, although not so great for meeting new people. I’ve not found many mental health groups with many members or much activity. I have signed up to support the Mind Your Health cause though.
Q: Do you have a favourite gadget?
I’m not really into gadgets, as such, but I like my mobile phone. I get bored quickly, so it is good to listen to music on it or play games. I can even use it to write music, as it can play guitar chords and play drum patterns. I’m using it to learn how to play guitar.
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I love your reasons for buying a wedding dress.
I bought an evening gown that was to die for, but I didn't get to wear it very often so I sometimes wear it around the house too!
:)
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