Julie Kraft is a Canadian author, artist, and mental health advocate devoted to spreading awareness and shattering stigma. In the spring of 2010, after decades of living with anxiety and depression, she received an official diagnosis of bipolar II disorder. Julie's initial feelings of shame led to desperate searches for positive images of bipolar. Her efforts were in vain; only disturbing cartoons, mocking memes, and sensationalized headlines were found. In the almost twelve years since her diagnosis, Julie has come to a place of fully embracing her bipolar mind- she credits it with allowing her to live a vibrant and full life. Julie is now passionate about sharing her mental health journey and the positive sides of bipolar - whether on paper, social media, stages, or street corners. She is thrilled to have published her memoir, The Other Side of Me - memoir of a bipolar mind, as well as a children's book, Tilda Whirl, all in an effort to start the conversation on mental health at ALL ages. Julie has also contributed to publications for Psych Central, Psycom, and BP Hope magazine. Aside from advocacy, Julie's interests include travelling, painting, photography, interior design, and scouring secondhand stores. As she continues to pour herself into her advocacy work, it is Julie's greatest hope that her voice will open minds, change perceptions, and help others walking a similar path.WWW.JULIEKRAFT.COMInstagram @julie.kraft.authorRead more about this authorRead less about this author