General Hospital (GH) spoilers reveal that one ABC soap star is speaking out about her mental health battle. In an emotional Instagram video, Risa Dorken (Amy Driscoll) opened up about some of the struggles she’s been facing. Although Dorken had reservations about going public with this, she ultimately felt like it might help other people who might be facing similar issues.
“I was hesitant to share my story at a time like this when everyone is struggling with anxiety, loss, grief and more, but perhaps that is the exact reason to share it,” Dorken said. “Because you are not alone. It’s a hard time, but there is always a reason to connect and to share who you are with others. So I’d like to share this with you all.”
Dorken described dealing with stress, paranoia, terror and more, which all took a toll as she welcomed in her 30th birthday. It all built up to a diagnosis Dorken never saw coming. “I’m Risa and I have bipolar disorder,” Dorken said in her powerful video message.
Although Dorken had seen loved ones tackle mental illness, she didn’t imagine she’d fight a battle of her own. Dorken talked about being seen as the “personification of sunshine” her whole life. She’d never associated the term “manic” with her “perfectionist self,” but she ultimately had to confront her bipolar disorder and how it changed her universe.
Sadly, the initial treatment she received did more harm than good according to Dorken. “In February 2020, I was restrained and put under two involuntary holds,” the GH actress said. “The first one was 72 hours and the second one was for 48 hours – both a week apart and both I was let out two hours shy for quote ‘good behavior’ even though I was not stable or better.”
Dorken insisted these for-profit facilities worsened her condition. “I was ignored, laughed at, endangered, bullied and terrified,” Dorken said. “The experience was something I’d never wish on anyone but was my only option.”
Dorken described genuinely believing she was on some sort of show. She had wild delusions, which ranged from fearing her own murder to believing she invented Valentine’s Day.
Dorken also talked about how all her darkest secrets came out over the course of about two and a half weeks. She dialed up old friends, crushes and bosses as she struggled to get a grip on reality.
Dorken talked about finding her way “back to Risa” in a time that’s especially challenging. She teared up about “the entire globe” struggling, so she wanted to share her story with those it might help.
Dorken knows this is a battle that will continue, but she ended her video on a positive note. “I am happy, safe, stable and bipolar,” Dorken said. “This isn’t forever. You aren’t alone. As with any illness, I ask that you please seek out a professional or tell a trusted loved one.”
Now that Dorken has her diagnosis and is on medication, she’s choosing to count her blessings and speak out. General Hospital fans are certainly sending Dorken love and well wishes! It’s brave of Dorken to open up about something so personal and hopefully make a difference. If Dorken offers any other important news, we’ll be sure to pass along updates.
As for what’s next on GH, General Hospital spoilers say some surprises are brewing in Port Charles. Don’t forget to stop by CDL frequently for hot General Hospital spoilers, updates and news posts.
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wrote about my struggle with mental health over the past couple months, and wanted to share.
