Big Blend Radio: Vivian Conan - Losing the Atmosphere

Vivian Conan felt unreal and disconnected. She spoke to faces in the mirror that were not her own. And after years of therapy and multiple hospitalizations, she had a diagnosis: dissociative identity disorder (once known as multiple personality disorder.) On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Quality of Life show, Vivian discusses some of the stories covered in her memoir, “Losing the Atmosphere: A Memoir, A Baffling Disorder, A Search for Help, and the Therapist Who Understood."

"Losing the Atmosphere" shares a riveting account of her journey toward self-understanding and wholeness; her encounters with a string of more and less helpful therapists; and her unconventional relationship with the therapist who was finally able to guide her through the courageous, messy work healing required. Told with uncommon honesty, humor, and grace, it is a never-too-late story about the growth possible for anyone with the guts and determination to pursue it, and a testament to the redemptive power of love: not the perfect kind Vivian experienced in her imaginary world, but the imperfect kind that connects us, flawed human being to flawed human being, in the real world she lives in now.

Featured music is "Be Kind" by Brian Bourgault.