Having an invisible illness such as mental health comes with all manner of problems and stigma. I’m very lucky in the sense that I am supported by my family and friends but I often find that thought creeping into my head... ‘they just don’t get it’.What I mean by that is, even though everyone supports me, looks after me and helps me where they can...
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Bipolar Disorder and the Stigma on Men's Mental Health
February 28, 2018
By: John Poehler
It is interesting to note that the prevalence and type of bipolar disorder related to men’s health is gender specific.The DBSA (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) provides some startling statistics:The incidence of bipolar disorder is the same in both men and womenMen experience rapid cycling three times as much as womenMen are more likely...
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Forming Relationships with Bipolar Disorder
February 16, 2018
By: Courtney Davey, MA, MFT
Relationships can be full of ups, downs, stress, excitement, and everything in between. From family relationships that have been lifelong, to platonic friendships that withstand the test of time, to romantic relationships that take us to a new level of emotional intimacy, relationships require above all an awareness of self and the other person....
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The Surprisingly Positive Consequences of Loving Someone with Bipolar Disorder Part One
February 13, 2018
By: Julie A. Fast
***The following is part one of an article from Julie A. Fast, the author of Loving Someone with Bipolar Disorder: Understanding and Helping Your Partner. In today’s post, Julie gives realistic and positive ideas for a joyful special occasion when a partner has bipolar disorder. Part two of the article includes a special webinar...
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Seeds of Hope
February 1, 2018
By: Liz Wilson
I often wonder if everyone has experienced the miracle of a well-spoken or well-meaning word during times of crisis or need? I grew up in a home fraught with poverty, but my Mother was constantly trying to make small things go a long way---both physically and emotionally. I can remember the day I finally realized I was poor: I was 15....
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The ORBIT Project
January 24, 2018
Quality of life in bipolar disorderMaintaining good quality of life is an important goal for people with bipolar disorder. Beyond managing the symptoms of bipolar disorder, people naturally want to maximise satisfaction in important life areas, such as the social, leisure, sleep, and identity domains. The goal of good quality of life...
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7 Simple Ways to Maintain Stability When You Have Bipolar Disorder
January 11, 2018
By: John Poehler
Bipolar Disorder is a chronic illness of extreme moods, energy, and motivation. It is a complex disease that requires multiple coping strategies per day. The diagnostic criteria is the same for everyone. However, each individual is unique in their biology and symptomology. Therefore, the following coping strategies are...
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By: Conor Bezane
You are dually diagnosed. You have bipolar and addiction. It’s a nightmare. Naturally.Alcohol makes you feel warm and fuzzy all over, especially in the winter, when all you feel like doing is cozying up to the fire and enjoying a glass of wine or a fine Scotch or bourbon. But you’re not drinking anymore — and don’t forget that you feel better as a...
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Mind Games
December 21, 2017
By: Aubrey Good
When making the decision to take an active role in handling my bipolar disorder, I was given a lot of advice that warned of the hard times ahead and the need for patience and endurance. The most common conversations, whether it is with my medical team or peers, include phrases like:-“Finding the right medication will take a lot of trial and error...
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Planning For My Health
December 12, 2017
By: Danielle Workman
Most girls have that one ‘must have’ item in their purse at all times. For some it is a certain lip gloss, others have a pair of great sunglasses, others hide great items like portable chargers or spritzers. These days, my go to items are my planners and journals, and yes, I carry those in my purse at all times. Let me explain more.It came as an...
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The Holidays Aren’t Happy For Everyone, And That’s Okay
December 11, 2017
By: Melanie Luxenberg
It’s that time of year again. December. The holidays are approaching. Time off school for students, perhaps time off work for those whose offices close (or who take time off), time to travel for some, staycations for others. A chance to spend time with family and friends and enjoy yourself- that is, if you want to and are able to. You may be...
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Help! My Parent Has Bipolar Disorder: Part 2
December 7, 2017
By: Leslie A. Lindsay
In Part 1, I described my personal experience with a parent with bipolar disorder. I have compiled a list of questions and concerns that you may have from your own personal experience! Maybe one is, “Why does my mom (or dad) have Bipolar Disorder?”That’s a very natural question. The answer isn’t super-clear. Scientists knows bipolar is a...
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