On Nov. 24, 2007, I turned over my column to Nancy Foster, wife of Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster.

Aware that she had spent years battling bipolar disorder and that she was outspoken about this tender subject, I invited her to use my column space and make her life, as she puts it, an open book.

The response to that column was widespread. Suddenly, people with and without bipolar disorder were discussing the subject. Everywhere she went in the community, Foster received thanks from people who were grateful for her bold approach.

Eighteen months later, I'm pleased to relinquish my column space again to talk about the turns her life has taken since going public with a topic once talked about in whispers, if at all.

Since that 2007 article, Foster has been lauded by numerous organizations for being so forthright in helping others by publicizing her own story. The "Golden Ducky" award, presented to her by the Mental Health Association, typifies the public's appreciation she has received. The award may have a funny name, but the recipient is regarded by MHA as the Mental Health Hero of the Year.

It is my privilege to present this outstanding member of our community.

By Nancy Foster

One of the best decisions I have made in my life was that of being

But I wanted to be of help to others. Problems related to mental illness are not easily discussed, but it is important for people with such problems to realize they are not alone.

It was with those thoughts that I decided to move forward and become an open book.

In November 2007, Tom Hennessy shared my story in the Press-Telegram. I was surprised and relieved to receive so many phone calls, e-mails, and snail mails from numerous people who expressed their appreciation.

I believe many of these people expressed a huge sigh as they read that someone else had problems related to mental illness, and that this person was now living a normal life.

The first time I attended an event after the story appeared, people came up to me, one after another. Their eyes would lock onto mine, as if they wanted to be sure I heard their every word.

They shared how the article had affected their lives in positive ways. They had plans to help friends and loved ones by sharing it with them.

I noticed something else. People were comfortable talking to me about what is usually such a private subject.

Since then, I have had many conversations with people via e-mail and in person, and have been able to offer some guidance stemming from my own personal experience.

Surprise thanks

During last year's Gay Pride Parade, as Mayor Bob and I were walking, a lady came up and gave me an enthusiastic hug. "Thanks for telling your story," she said.

At the Naples Boat Parade, as our gondola was about to go under a bridge, I glanced up and heard a woman yell, "Thanks, Nancy, for telling your story."

These are small things, perhaps, but they are moments I will always remember.

For so many years, I had envisioned a room filled with people brave enough to discuss their mental-health problems. I have become more comfortable myself speaking before such audiences. I believe this happens naturally when the subject is one to which others can relate.

Now as I speak, I enjoy watching their expressions as I explain how I felt during my spells of depression, or as I touch on patterns in my life that are associated with my mental illness.

Heads shake in affirmation. Eyes widen. I am saying what they have experienced. For them and for me, it is all coming together.

Since the article, I have spoken at wellness forums and hospitals. Charter Communications, the cable company, has taped two events that can be viewed on demand.

I was also invited to speak before Sacramento commissioners on the implementation of Proposition 63, the mental health initiative approved by California voters in 2004.

West Hollywood's Disabilities Advisory Board also invited me to speak. This made me realize that I was becoming an advocate for people with disabilities. Until then, I hadn't considered myself in this category. But it was true. Many times during the difficult years, my illness did have a negative effect and made me disabled, difficult to cope from day to day.

Awareness of others

Having shared my story, I became much more aware of others who are depressed or bipolar. I can sense them by their behavior and by how they express themselves in their writing.

I am more mindful now of actions that are associated with mental illness. Maybe I kind of see myself in others and think, "That's the way I used to behave."

A few random thoughts:

Many people were surprised to hear I was dealing with mental health problems, as I am usually very outgoing.

I really get along well with others who are bipolar. It's kind of like having a mini-party on the spot, without the cocktails.

I have learned that many people with mental-health issues also have substance abuse problems. They will self-medicate, trying to get relief from depression and anxiety. That is how addiction comes into play and is another reason why bipolar people need to get help. I was fortunate, by the way. I never turned to drugs or alcohol.

My anxiety was extreme, however. I felt overwhelmed just trying to get through a day. Simple acts became huge tasks. I was put on a new medication and responded fairly quickly. After moving to Long Beach in 1996, I began feeling like my old self again.

I am vigilant about taking my medication. This helps keep me in check. If I feel myself shifting to a downward or upward state, I take note and try to cut back on stress. This usually helps.

Exercise, I have learned, is beneficial, and positive thinking is a key to lifting my mood.

Mother's Day thoughts

Bob and I have two sons. This being Mother's Day, let me conclude with a few points from the perspective of a mom. I worry about children and young people, and am concerned about their mental health. This has become especially true after my own experience.

I've heard people say that a child couldn't possibly suffer from depression. Not true. I have seen depression in children.

Twenty years ago, depression in children was almost unknown. Today, however, it is growing faster among children than any other age group. Children who have depressed parents also show signs at a younger age.

Trying to get a young person interested in an activity to no avail is real. Looking into children's eyes and finding them lifeless is real as well.

Indeed, children, including teens, can be depressed. That isn't always displayed by lack of interest or the usually depressed state. Sometimes it is exhibited by anger or acting out.

Listen to your child. Take note when there is a sudden change in mood. Look for aggression, negative attitude, even lower grades. Encourage your children to share how they are feeling.

One final note regarding my own story. A year after I shared it with the community, I heard a gentle man say, "If Nancy Foster can be diagnosed with bipolar disorder and live a normal life, so can I."

Yes, there is life after being diagnosed with a mental health disorder.

Just ask me. I know, and give thanks.

Tom Hennessy's column appears on Sundays. He can be reached at 562-4599-1270 or by e-mail at Scribe17@mac.com