Bipolar, New Zealand, Memoirs, Postpartum depression 

Spiders, Vampires and Jail Keys is the captivating, very readable but painfully real account of Brooke O’Neill’s struggle with bipolar disorder. We follow her descent from intelligent, capable nurse, and caring mother and partner, to compulsory treatment, and then her rise to stability and health again. Her vivid and humorous retelling of events provides an insight into the often chaotic and despairing life of those suffering with mental illness. 

Hi my name is Brooke. I was born and raised in Auckland New Zealand. I had my first experience of depression at the age of 12. Following this I experienced high levels of anxiety but no obvious fluctuating mood states. The anxiety didn't seem to warrant a visit to see the doctor. I thought this level of anxiety was normal.

At the age of 29 I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. Five days following her birth I started to experience hallucinations and delusions. My mood was a mixture of both depression and mania. I felt terrified, confused and I felt I had lost my identity. Six weeks later I had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. It rocked my world and everyone around me.

I refused to accept it and spent the next 13 years on a roller coaster ride of mental instability.

I felt stigmatized by my diagnosis, refused medication and mental health support that was offered.

My illness became so severe that I tried to take my own life. Following this I had to decide whether I should choose life or death. I chose life and acceptance of my diagnosis.

I have accepted medication and work as a registered nurse in an acute alternative mental health facility. This residential based service operates on a peer support model. I work with some amazing people who have their own lived experience of mental health challenges and recovery. All our guests who stay are accepted for who they are. There are no labels, no stigma, just love for people experiencing mental health issues.

My book chronicles my 13 years of instability with depression and mania and my rise to stability and health again.

It provides hope and inspiration that recovery from mental illness is possible.

I currently live on a farm with my husband, daughter and many animals! I have recently been a guest speaker on two radio stations in Auckland