I recognize the importance of a consistent routine for managing bipolar. I also know that maintaining my stability depends on having free time for spontaneity. The Necessity of Routine We hear it all the time: Routine is so important for people with bipolar! Keep a steady routine to combat your bipolar symptoms! Do things the...
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The varieties of talk therapy can be confusing: Is a counselor required? What’s the difference between CBT and DBT? Do I need a workbook or something? Talk Therapies, Decoded If you’ve considered talk therapy for bipolar disorder, you’ve probably heard of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and its proven benefits for those of us living with...
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When the routine I relied on for years changed suddenly, I found myself with new questions—and opportunities—for how I really wanted to spend my days. Routines & Bipolar Disorder Everyone talks about how important routines are when you live with bipolar disorder. This is because routines often keep us away from unpleasant emotions, such as...
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Journaling allowed me to come to terms with my bipolar diagnosis, understand my mood swings, accept my past, and reconcile my current self with my dreams for the future. I’ve been through some stuff. I’ve faced childhood trauma, the sudden loss of a parent, and a lifelong battle with bipolar disorder. Through everything, writing has...
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Especially during depressive episodes, mania might seem appealing. I know from experience, though, that welcoming mania means holding the door open for depression, too. Mania’s Appeal & Relationship to Depression I know as well as anyone that certain kinds of mania feel incredible. This is especially true if you experience a lot of depression and...
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Physical fitness feel out of reach? Don’t get lost in the hype—here are the facts on what exercise really means, plus its benefits for bipolar disorder. Physical activity benefits everybody’s health, but especially those who live with mood disorders. The three pillars of bipolar mood stability are psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle management. Exercise falls neatly...
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Recent stressful events and personal losses required a review of how I cope under pressure. I gained a greater perspective on what works—and what doesn’t—managing stress and bipolar. My Stress Overload As of late, people across the world have individually and collectively suffered and struggled amid the world health crisis—and continue to do so. Narrowing...
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When we lose a loved one—suddenly or after a decline in health—our grief can be unpredictable and powerful. It can also trigger a mood episode. Here’s how to help loved ones prepare for inevitable losses in life. Sensitive Content: This blog post contains material related to losing loved ones and processing grief. Bipolar disorder is...
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Of all the mood states of bipolar, irritability really drags me down. I work hard to escape its clutches before it morphs into intense anger and overwhelm. In my everyday life, I am usually happy and feel that life is pretty good, all things considered. Each of us experiences a variety of moods and feelings,...
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It takes effort and a plan, but bipolar depression can’t stop us from reaching our goals. We can get things done when it feels impossible. Every Shade of Depression My brain feels like mush. I can’t focus as I write this. I’m restless and unhappy, worried and frustrated. I’m depressed. But I have work to...
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To stay on track with wellness and boost my mood, I stay away from damaging negative self-talk and have positive conversations with myself instead. If you see me walking, driving, or even just standing around, you may notice that I’m talking to myself. This practice might seem peculiar, but I assure you that it has...
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Both bipolar depression and mania sneak up on me. Now, I have a simple, doable plan for recognizing early-warning signs and taking action. Learning to Manage My Bipolar Episodes I believe that we each grow as a person, even over the course of a single year. That’s why I reflect on the previous year and...
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For mood management, it’s about not just the amount of sleep but also its quality. Nothing else matters if I ignore my need for restorative sleep. Treating Bipolar—What Works & What Doesn’t Bipolar disorder brings with it different challenges—some, we share; others are unique to each of us. I have dedicated a lot of time...
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By keeping an eye out for their loved one’s “warning signs,” supporters can help alert us to an impending bipolar episode. For me, understanding symptoms in context and addressing them in advance means watching out for three specific factors. One thing I am currently trying to sear into my memory (and others’, too!) is that...
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It won’t be hard to say goodbye to 2020, given all the challenges it brought. But New Year’s Eve itself might be difficult, especially if—like me—you are single and anticipating an emotionally charged time with potential mood swings. That’s why I am planning ahead for what to do—I want to ring in the new year...
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When the holidays feel complicated and emotionally taxing, simplifying plans and expectations can reduce anxiety and help loved ones with bipolar to avoid mood triggers. I’m certain that January 1, 2021, will follow December 31, 2020. But that’s all I am certain about this holiday season. As a working mom, simplifying the holiday season became...
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Before my bipolar diagnosis, my life was marked by constant change that elated and destroyed me over and over again. With treatment and hard work, I’ve learned to manage my moods and find stability. It’s about time, I think, to recognize how far I’ve come. I love a good whodunit. The second season of Unsolved...
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Holidays can challenge anyone’s mood, but living with bipolar—or supporting someone who does—teaches us how to cope with the unknown. Here are my go-to’s for maintaining hope and stability. Although our collective sense of time has been affected by the global health crisis and its disruptions to our lives—our routines, stress, workloads, and ability to...
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For me, the holidays usually bring not only traditions and gatherings but also stress and strong triggers. Difficult memories arise as the season changes and the holidays are upon us. In the years since my bipolar diagnosis and sobriety, I’ve learned how to navigate these months and maintain a stable mood. Holidays & Memories—for Better...
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With bipolar anxiety, every small joy makes a difference. Here’s how my daily gratitude practice helps me stay present and calm. Gratitude Brings Me Back to the Moment Eighteen years ago, my first Overeaters Anonymous sponsor suggested that I keep a gratitude journal, and I listened. I had previously heard Oprah Winfrey discuss the power...
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