Brett Berger 
MANIA 

Brett suffered ongoing depression since his first serious breakup. He tried therapy to recover his self-worth and lust for life. While getting his Master’s in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford, he quit his antidepressants and instead self-medicated with marijuana. His drug use escalated to LSD which tragically triggered a loss of self, inability to socialize, and a severe depression necessitating hospitalization. Recovery was slow, but eventually Brett improved to the point of obtaining an internship with Apple, an opportunity which allowed worldwide travel. The sense of accomplishment was accompanied by hubris that once again lead to drug use. A major manic event landed Brett back in the hospital where he was diagnosed with Bipolar disorder. This time, recovery was facilitated by abstaining from illicit drugs, taking prescribed medications, and attending therapy. His therapist became his friend and savior who helped him rediscover his sense of self.