How to deal with someone who is Bipolar
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It's not an easy task
Dealing with someone who suffers from Bipolar Disorder is not easy, there is no manual, and each person is different. Although being Bipolar myself it is not an easy task being Bipolar either. The number one thing to remember is patience.
Bipolar Disorder is like riding on an uncontrollable roller coaster, like a monkey jumping from tree to tree. We the Bipolar ones don't always realize how our actions effects others, when the chemicals in our brain start to run in overdrive there are so many different moods that we encounter that it is hard to establish realism vs. "just another mood swing". Sometimes our actions are not coherent to us, we believe in all sanctity that we are correct and everyone else is wrong.
If you are with someone you love, it is a full time commitment. You can't love someone with this disorder just when they are doing well. It is a lifetime commitment on both parts. We as the sufferers should be aware of changes in our mood and behavior as well as the people in our lives. Confronting someone with Bipolar and trying to tell them that they are wrong, or they are just having a mood swing does not better the situation for either party. You have to be careful, hurting their feelings when they feel as they are correct or are doing nothing wrong causes more stress, anxiety and escalating moods.
Dealing with a Depression Episode
If you are with someone encountering a depression episode, which usually follows a manic or hypo manic situation. They have crashed. The word crashed is one I prefer to use because it is the way you fell. Like you have actually lost feeling to your surroundings, we feel pseudo pain, require more sleep and there is no motivation for anything. No drive to get out of bed, leave the house, shower, go to work, just sleep, why? Sleep is as close to death as you can get and when we are depressed, those creeping thoughts plague us. What can you do? Be supportive, not argumentative, understand even if you can't. Encourage us to get up, be active but remember we have chemicals that are working against us, that don't believe that we can make it from the bed to the bathroom. The least little task is hideous, we become argumentative, because we ourselves don't understand why our bodies are failing us. Don't ever doubt that the depression is real, it takes control and inhibits our body like a virus, fortunately this too shall pass.
I remember a time a while back where I was hypo-manic and even myself who has worked endlessly for years to control it alone, crashed. I crashed right here on hub pages and everyone who read my hubs knew it. There were some who cared and emailed to make sure I was OK and that was like a breath of fresh air, although others call me crazy or the "one on meds". If you truly love the person who is suffering, never call them crazy and only bring up meds or seeing their doctor in very polite, understating ways. We will argue, we will eventually realize we are wrong, don't throw that in our face, this illness does not discriminate and a day in our shoes will change the way you think.
Promote positive ways to help overcome depression such as participating in Therapy, taking a long walk or understanding, even if you don't. You probably never will, no matter how many books you read, how many times you have studied it. Learn about Bipolar, you can't help someone if you don't know what the problem really is. Yes, we think we are right, no matter how euphoric our beliefs may be.
Let's say you are close to someone with Bipolar, forget they are Bipolar and consider them Diabetic. If they don't get their meds or a proper diet they will decline. The same with Bipolar Disorder. Sometimes it takes a helping hand, not a demanding hand.
Dealing with Mania
Mania is clearly the opposite of Depression. No sleep is needed. Days of no sleep is not abnormal but the things that a Bipolar Person does can sometimes be considered abnormal. Spending sprees, Euphoria, Increase in Sex Drive, these things can seriously damage a relationship and a person's view of self-worth. There are some percautions you may want to take if the individual is not capable of doing so. Money can be a real problem, especially in relationships. When you are Manic money means nothing, you spend it like there is no tomorrow on the silliest non essential things. My downfall was shoes. This is when I recommend that you stand your ground and don't allow your financial situation to decline. If the person is stabelized, mania can be controlled. The excessive talking and cleaning and not being able to be still can be nerve racking to some. Try to keep them grounded, in a very polite loving way. Remember we don't think we are doing anything wrong, In cases of extreme mania a medication change may be necessary, so you need to have a relationship as well with the Doctor. Be there to explain symptoms of mania and medication can be prescribed to keep them grounded. Being with a Biploar individual reuires a commitment on both parts, honesty and patience, more than what should be required in a relationship when Bipolar is not an issue.
Those aggravating mood swings
Regardless of how good you can control your ups and downs, mood swings will always be an issue. In Reality, everyone has mood swings. People get angry, frustrated, sad, mad, happy for sometimes no apparent reason. We just kick it up a notch a bit. It is normal, the only thing you can do is try to rationalize their point of view. Sometimes it is way off hand and sometimes, well we might just be right. Most people with Bipolar are very intelligent, very creative, and what I call "left brained". Their concept of things are sometimes not as clear as it may be to you. This is where patience and understanding plays a big role. The ability to walk away to avoid an argument, even if you are right and they are wrong and being able to understand why they fell that way. It takes a special person to deal on a day to day basis with a Bipolar individual, whether it is your relative, friend or companion. Patience is a must, but it is also the responsibility of one who suffers not to make others suffer as well, this includes taking meds, therapy, and avoiding alcohol, drugs, and other mind altering substances. Support the one you love, show them you care and understand. It will make all the difference in the world. Peace....
Other Hubs About Bipolar
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I have been suffering with Bipolar Disorder my entire life and as I have learned more about the disorder the more I wanted to be able to help others. As a freelance writer, I figured the best thing for me to... - Learning to Live With Bipolar Disorder
I've done it. I quit my job. Before having a new one to go to. Am I insane? Seems so. This decision was definitely not made based upon any type of logical thinking. Why? Cause I'm bipolar and couldn't... - Controlling Hypo-Mania with Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder is a bundle of moods and thoughts and dreams all wrapped up in to one nutshell you just can't seem to crack. Episodes of Depression weight you down like a trapped bear. Unable to move or...
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Thank you so much for writing this. My husband has PTSD, Severe Depression and I believe now Bipolar. He is an alchoholic, and when he hits bottom, he tells me that I would be better off without him, and why do I love him, why do I stay with him. We have been married for almost 4 years now and he recently quit a job that was stressing him to the point of Cutting himself. Reading this brought tears to my eyes, because I want to help and to understand my husband when he crashes.
I just wanted to thank you for this article. I was diagnosed as bipolar 10 years ago and it was oddly liberating to know that there was a reason to some of how I was acting. I was lucky enough that they found the right dosage, but I like many others played around a bit with my meds (why do we do this?). But I do want to emphasise that although it can be extremely difficult at times, I do believe that we as a mental health community need to take responsibly for our own actions. Nothing pisses me off more than someone who is mentally ill and blames ALL of their actions and reactions on being mentally ill. I really do understand how exceptionally hard and dark it can get, but please don't use mental illness as a scapegoat for all of life's problems. Sorry, off my soapbox now.
Kaiem, I completely believe that his irregularity on his medications is having a huge impact on his behavior. When not medicated, it is very likely that he hates himself, but that doesn't always manifest as self-hatred, but rather as finding fault with everything outside of himself. His perception is clear (to himself) that everything is wrong outside of him, and he is absolutely right. It is irresponsible of him to be on and off medication in this way. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to discuss this with him while he is in this state. Nothing. He is also exhibiting many symptoms of a controlling and abusive partner. He has trained you to be submissive and subserviant to his every whim, you described one instance when he physically attacked you. Bearing in mind that it is likely his mental state that is driving this, his true identity is not to blame, but you can not risk your self, and your safety. My advice to you (for you to take or not to take) is leave, and leave with a clear message. Tell him you will come back after his disease is managed again, if he wants, and also that you'll leave every time he goes off of his medications. Let him know that managing his disease is a deal-breaker. Expect that this ultimatum will not be well received. He'll likely believe that you are trying to control him (partially true), and he'll probably reject you and tell you to go, that he doesn't need you, etc. Then go. Follow through on the warning. The truth is you have no control over what he does and doesn't do. This disease can be very dangerous to the sufferer and those around them. In the end, he must come to grips with the reality that he must commit to managing his medications for the rest of his life. The sooner he realizes this the sooner he can begin to build a better life. There is no guarantee it will be with you.
...and my background... my wife is the sufferer. We have been together for 13 years and married for almost 11. We have two children together. She is very compliant with her medications and she still has problems coping. There is a skill in talking to a BP sufferer that you can develop with time. I don't always get it right, but I do better than I used to. Also, managing this disease can be very expensive. The costs of psychiatrists and medications is a huge commitment, but it is sometimes going to be more important than food.
Good luck to you.
I think stress is the contributing factor.. Everyone has stress and it depends on how people measure and cope with their stress. Stress can come from WORK, RELATIONSHIP, FAMILY, MONEY, etc. When there is stress, people get tense up and when people get tense up, they will have attitude problems. In long run, they get the so called 'Bipolar' 'Depression' and 'Mood Swing' and be classified as 'the mental problem categories'.. In life,many people have different needs and wants. The lesser you hoped for, the lesser stress you have. The more you want to achieve something or keep up with something, the more stress you'll have. It's always good to take things at our own capability and ability. I can also understand it is especially difficult to deal with people who are stress because they think on their own logic. Why not, let's all just try to understand them and and put ourselves on their shoes and probably can help them to overcome the stress their facing. I believe that is the least we could do by lending a listening ear to them and constantly helping them. This will definitely help rather then agitating them so that their illness will get better than worst.
Hi dori,
I've been dating my boyfriend who has been diagnosed with bipolar disease since he was 16, for almost 2 years now. He is 28 and we've been living together for nearly 1 year now. He takes medications every day.
At the beginning of our relationship every thing was so perfect. He seemed to be so in love with me. He wanted to marry me and was the sweetest person ever. A year later when i moved in, out of No where, one day, he told me he didn't love me anymore he wanted to be with other girls etc. I'm his first girl friend.i was devastated. We still stayed together. The next day he'd act like nothing happened. He'd tell me he loves me, I'm the best I'm perfect etc..but every month or so it'd be the same thing. He'd argue about the smallest things tell me the meanest things insult me tell me I'm garbage tell me he doesn't care about me he doesn't love me ..that I'm a wall and he's stuck with me and can't see other girls..i'd cry all night and the next day..everything would be like it never happened...this has happened several times now. A few days ago... He was on my laptop for 8hrs and i asked only twice if i could use it. The second time i asked he got so so so angry he yelled at me insulted me grabbed my throat told me to shut up when i tried defending myself..i cried and went to bed. He told me I'm nothing but furniture to him.. That I'm garbage and he made me sleep on sofa. The next morning he said he acted that way cuz i annoyed him and he apologise and made me apologized too. He said he loved me and went to work. When he came from work he ignored me for a few hours then started insulting me and talking to me in such a negative way and when i asked him what was wrong he did nothing but insult me and finally said he didn't love me. I tried telling him that this happens on a monthly basis and its not true but he told me it is true he has No feelings for me at all he feels No spark between us he has no feeling when we kiss he doesn't care about my family or me He does not and will not invest in this relationship anymore he looks at other girls and when iam not with him he feels single. He said its my choice if i want to break up. I told him i love him i don't want to break up but i cried for hours and hours. I asked him why did he stop loving me He answered its just like that. I do everything for him i give him anything that makes him happy i cook i clean i go to work i never never complain i agree with wtv he says as i learned that he has a bad temper when i tell him or show him he's wrong. I do Whatever he wants...i try my best to always be there for him...i don't know what to think anymore. At the moment..we're still together and things are back to normal. He said we'll give it another try that he still loves me.
I'm just at lost of words. Does he truly love me or not? I noticed its always happens when he doesn't take his medication for a few days . I checked and i think for 3 days he hadn't taken them as the bottle had emptied and he didn't renew them yet. Does him not taking his medication have anything to do with this? Can you Please tell me what you think. It'd be very much appreciated. Thank you!
I think my mum has bipolar. I am worried & concerned & do not know how to make her see that she needs help. She constantly thinks that people are out to get her, she has these mood swings where she can be calm,happy ,in control & then she suddenly gets into a state of depression .When this happens she becomes loud,angry & accuses people of all the bad that has transpired in her life. She lives in a world of fear ,thinking that people are out to 'get' her.We are trying our best but these outbreaks are causing a rift in my family because not everyone has the patience & understanding.Really don't know how to approach the situation????????????
i cant handle my boyfriend with bipolar. hes mean he calls me horrible names threatens me and hurts animals. what do i do? he wont let me go if i do he will hurt me he says. Im so lost.
Very interesting im in a relationship as well and have a hard time getting along with that person sometimes argumentive its hard and im working on getting psychiatric help cause i have depression and anxiety its no fun!!!
The person I love may be bipolar. She has horrible mood swings to the extreme. I try to talk to her but it is no good and she is always right. I try not to be argumentative but she picks at me because what she does is perfect and no one else. She is obsessed about the house being clean and having things her way. It's a constant battle every day. No matter what I am always wrong. I do love her but I am not sure I can continue this. Help......
I have a question regarding my dear friend with bipolar. We've been friends since jr. high and I was actually sitting next to her during our senior yr. of highschool when she had her first manic episode. Of course at the time I had not a clue. She was diagnosed right away since most (maybe all?) of her immediate family have some sort of mental disorder so her parents knew she needed help. It's been about 10 years since then. We almost never talk about her disorder. I know she changes meds now and then. I also know she doesn't see a therapist, just a doc for meds. My dilemma is this: she is very mean and unpleasant to be around about 50% of the time I'm with her. Once a year we plan a weekend getaway with a small group of friends which inevitably ends up in some kind of blow-up from the friend with bi-polar. She has never, in all these years, acknowledged how her illness effects the friendship or apologized for extremely hurtful words. Is it possible she doesn't realize her behavior can be destructive? Is it worthwhile to address this with her? I don't know the extent of her illness. Since diagnosis she went on to complete and undergrad degree and has held down the same job as an elementary school teacher for 5 years. So she seems stable and healthy. If I hadn't known her in high school and was unaware of her illness I'm sure I wouldn't keep her as a friend because of how mean she can be. Sometimes I wonder if she does have some control over her behavior because she hasn't been fired from her job even though she deals with 4th graders and their parents, not to mention her coworkers and boss. I can always tell right away if she's in one of her "moods" and I immediately feel a let down. I'm not fully educated on bi-polar so I don't completely understand. She is on meds so she's not out of control, but she's either in a combative mood or super sweet. I haven't seen her in a depressed state ever that I can think of except after a bad break-up. I guess I just wonder if some of this is her personality? I know it for sure is an illness but maybe some of it is just her?
I have a friend who has dysphoric mania... supposedly one of the hardest forms of bipolar to treat. My friend has been episode after episode and suicide attempt one after the other and has currently been manic for a week, but she is currently in the process of being put on lithium and I have been with her every step along the way through all her attempts every since I have known her. She knows she can not control her thoughts, suicidal thoughts, emotions, or ideas but she is convinced she can control her actions. Ever since she told me that she could control her actions, she is convinced she can defeat her disorder. She promised me she wouldn't try anything and hasn't ever since the promise was made. The ideas and suicidal thoughts were all there, even the motivation; however, she did not try anything. I love her to death and trust her with all my heart, I just want to do and know what's best for her because I do not know whether to believe her. I trust her when she is in a normal state and all other times because she can not lie to me, ever, it's not in the cards... but when she is manic like this I just can't decide nor do I know what to do...the only thing that makes me question it is because when she promised me she wouldn't try anything...she hasn't for about 3 days but has had the same motivation she normally does when she attempts. Do I believe her? I want to do what's best for her, I want her to stay alive for as long as possible, I just don't know what to do or what to believe...help!
u r ery welcome i hope you cound come comfot in knowing you are not alone and that it takes someone special to deal with bipolar, as far as you having it too, Bipolar is found in the Y chromsone, it is passed genectically from father to daughter to mother to son, since this is your dad (my dad is bipolar) the feelings you are having are very possibly what "they" call "learned behavior". You have grown up watching your father and how he reacts to situations, you may have learned that from him. I wish you the best and and don't forget about yourself and your goals during all of this madness...,
s
dori
Wow. Uhmm I just wanted to say thank you for this. My dad is bipolar and ..its really hard cuz its just me and him. And i'm at the point where im a little overwhelmed because I think I have it too and it just crushes me seeing him sad. I wish and pray everyday that I will have the strength to make him happy or smile or just get out of the house, but sometimes I cant even find the strength to make myself do anything. And it just feels hopeless sometimes.. I dont know. I just wanted to say thanks (:
Wow.. This article is really insightful & surreal. My boyfriend who I love with all my heart suffers bipolar disorder, I'm almost positive.. But idt he knows it. I wish I could easily tell him that I think that's what's wrong but am terrified on how he'll react.. I know I'm never gonna understand how he truly feels, but I wish he'd at least try to understand how I'm feeling.. Causing me depression from dealing with it for 2 years now. He'll make me grin from cheek to cheek one moment & then I'm balling my eyes out beyond belief juss wanting to die the next.. It's a he'll of a job to handle sometimes, considering I'm only 15...
The problem I have dealing w my partner who is bipolar is that they "crash" they are remorseful after wards.
During a fight I calmly try to tell them let's think this out, relax and talk calmly so we can avoid spending energy on negativity and be positive enjoy each others company. Do not work. I don't know what else to do. I love this person but the stress is affecting my day to day.
if you are not bipolar, ofcourse you are not going to understand, millions are diagnosed, imporoperly i believe, but you don't hae enough of evidence to prove to me it is liack of sleep, you should be ashamed.....
ohhh, don't take that melatonin during the day, it causes tumors, unless you think lack of sleep causes that too.
dori
Something isn't right here. How can so many millions of people be bipolar. There are pages and pages of people writing about their experiences and how they need a lot of sleep when they are depressed. Isn't it obvious to them that some of there symptoms could be from lack of sleep rather than being bipolar. People in the united states are always deprived of sleep either getting to school on time or work,never realizing that bipolar symptoms might just be a chemical imbalance from not getting enough hours of sleep. Elementary kids need 11-12 hours a night, Middle school kids need, 10-11, high school kids need 8 to 9 and adults need 8. Even schools that shifted their time to 8 or 9 instead of 7 a.m saw an increase in the grades. It's almost as if some conspiracy to keep Americans working very early so they can sell all these drugs.
It is very hard for an adult to fall asleep before 11 p.m, that's when the melatonin kicks in and makes you drowsy, so those who don't sleep 11 p.m to 7 a.m and have an interrupted dream will have chemical imbalances in the brain.
tito B3,
It unot unusual for people to quit taking their meds. They are horrible and the side effects sometimes makes it unbearable..... If your fiance is having affairs of some sort and being violent towards you, she is either hypo- manic or manic at this time. She is very fortunate to have someone love her enough to even look for help on the internet and answers that you just cant seem to find. Unfortunately, if you want her to be better, you may have to have her involuntarily commited to a hospital to get her back on her meds. Without them, she will continue this cycle and eventually destroy everything you both have worked for and her having relations with other men can be dangerous, i am sure you are aware of that. The only thing I can offer you is to tell you to be patient, but make sure she gets back on her meds, especially a mood stabilizer. I know it can be tough, there have been times i have put my family through hell and back. I know and you know that she is not in control of her actions, that doesnt mean it is ok or you accept it. You gotta show some tough love, if you have to have her admitted. It will only help the situation. I can tell you love her very much but you also have to think of yourself. This disease does not go away, she will suffer from it the rest of her life. Meds are crucial, you have to find a way to convince her that she has to take them. Does she have a therapist or doctor you can call to discuss this and find a way to have her put in a hospital? As much as you love her, you can't allow her to make you unhappy. Maybe you should make that clear, it is obvious that she knows that whatever she does you will still be there. Knowing that it is easy to take advantage of the situation. Please do whatever means necessary to get her back on her meds. It will be beneficial to both of you. Your understanding and compassion says alot about you and if you love her, you have to love her illness too. Maybe you both should seek therapy so she can realise how painful this is for you to see her this way and how much it hurts to be on that roller coaster with you...... Keep the Faith and know that if she was on her meds she would not do things to hurt you or herself. I know it is hard to be patient and understanding but I hope this Hub has helped you realize what it is like for her as well. Keep in touch, i am sorry i don't have all the answers or a quick fix, it is a long road but chances of recovery are good, you just have to find the right doctors and learn to communicate with her in a non-violent way. Right now she needs help you cant give her, she needs professional help. I will keep you in you in my prayers and know that even though things are bad right now, this too shall pass. Bless you for you are rare to withstand all of this and know it is not your fault, it is not even her fault. Bipolar is ugly, mean, and can destroy realionships. Stand by her, don't give up on her, just get her help. God Bless you for what you do for her, keep the faith.
hugs
dori
MY,GOD!!!! Your posting,or site has gave me hope in,the mist of all my struggles. My wife to be is bipolar. We have been at eachothers throats for the last three months now. Im at the point where I cant say nothing. I fought hard and long,to get her baxk on her meds. Jut for her to STOP AGAIN. Shes violent she leaves me to go have relations with other men. Then when,that dosnt work out she comes back to me. Broken and busted down. Then I have to work harder to build us up again. I dont,wanna loose her. Shes beautiful . But im running outta options. HELP HELP HELP . Its at,the point where shes violent and wants to fight me. Or has fought me. I never lay a finger on her becuase I love her and want her. I need help . Weve ought,counceling
keep the faith,
thanks, and when you referred to the "grace of
God" you are definately going in the right direction! I hope all does go well for your daugher and please keep in touch!
hugs,
dori
Hi Dori, thanks for your comprehensive and caring response. I will make an appointment to see our family doc as she has over 12 years of my daughters medical history on file. I am also planning to see a pastoral psychologist in the coming week to help me in getting my daughter in for councelling and obviously the next steps in getting her to accept that there is "something wrong" which with the grace of God will lead to us getting her to a good doctor who will start with the process of medication and therapy. I will let you know how we are doing on this journey as you hub has helped me piece together a lot of the mysteries. It might also help other parents. God Bless and stay well!
akabrottonlass,
First of all, if your sons girlfriend is bipolar, there doesnt have to be a reason she doesnt like you, she probably doesnt like herself. It is concerning that she is pregnant because if she is on medication, she will have to stop. It is now known that anti-depressants, as well as mood stabililzers can cause extreme birth defects. That means bipolar with no meds and hormone levels racing she will need someone to help her. She will refuse your help i am sure. talk with your son first and let him know how he feels and then without being judgemental or putting her down, talk to her and offer all of your help and support. Hopefully she will accept it, because she will need someone there for her.
First things first, talk to your son and if she is on medication her doctor should know about her being pregnant, so meds could be discontinued. This is your grandchild being at risk and all needs to be put aside for the health and safety of the baby and the mom. Be very patient with her, she needs to know she can trust you, they will need yu now more than ever. Sometimes we can be harsh on our childrens choice of partner and i am sure you have made her feel inadequate. not on purpose but she probably reads things into every situation that is not there and responds immediately with anger. If she is carrying your grandbaby you do ot want her to feel inferior. Keep on keeping on and if you really want this it will take work. Dont pull away from them, regardless of what they say, they need you. Be there. Just be there.
Keep in touch,
hugs, dori
Keep the Faith,
Bipolar usually rears its ugly head around puberty and escalates in late teens, early twenties. It is obvious that your daughter is not happy, no fault of yours. the binging on food shows she doesnt care how she looks or her health. It is funny to me how she is a waitress> I too have waitressed on and off since i was 14. I once had a therapist tell me that my self loathing made it impossible to have realtionships with almost anyone and trust was a factor. When you are a waitress you meet all sorts of people and its always "nice meeting you," Have a nice day!", etc. She has short term, very short term relationships with her customers and feels good about herself and their reaction to the fact that she does a good job, but then they leave and she may never see them again. Those few minutes she spent with strangers made them happy and therefore she felt satisfied that she was accepted and even better that she would never have to have a real relationship with them. Relationships with anyone is hard when you don't feel worthy. My opinion and i am not a doctor, no where near that, she is depressed, very depressed and food makes her happy when everything else fails her, (this is only in HER mind ofcourse), the flights of fantasy and highs and lows leads me to believe that she is indeed bipolar. The sad thing is, she want admit it. Bipolar is a very dangerous cycle and if she doesnt get help soon her moods could escalate and she could hurt herself or cut herself off from the life she could have. You can try to talk her into getting help, but I wouldnt suggest that becuase she will refuse and you don't want to lose her. Talk with her doctor first, it surprises me that if she goes to the doctor with phantom pain and there is nothing wrong, the doc didn't at least suspect depression. When i was sent to the hospital the first time, it was because my Doctor said that over a years time I had been to him with symptoms of pain and sickness when there was nothing wrong. It was a cry for help, maybe if your doctor or her doctor knew things that ofcourse she is not going to tell him about, he could look back and see if there is a pattern. Usually people with Bipolar (and we are all different) follow patterns of depression and mania. Document it. She is not going to ask for help, you and her doctor are going to require she gets the help she needs. PLease talk this over with her doctor and tell the doc all of the contributing factors, the highs, lows, spending sprees, sounds like a young me. Dont give up on her and do something before she finds happiness that is self destructing, which is what she finds in food right now. It can get worse and the only choice is stop it or slow it down before she declines any further. I will keep u in my prayers and please keep in touch.
Hugs,
dori
My son has a girlfriend with bipolar who is now also 14 weeks pregnant. She does not want me to be involved in their lives due to something I had said which upset her. I don't see what I have done wrong but have tried to make right with her and she doesn't want to know. I want to have a relationship with my son and grandchild (and her) if possible. Any advice would be welcomed.
Hi Dori, thank for your hub. My daughter is 19 (turning 20 soon). She is not diagnosed with BiPolar. I am investigating the reasons for her strange and irrational behaviour and came upon BiPolar. Reading through the symptoms of Mania and then of Depression is spot on to the child I have observed since she was in her early teens. She was pretty, very creative and a natural leader. Over the years, every circle of friends formed around her would just dwindle away. They were always to blame. There would always be someone out to get her. She talks non stop and then withdraws for hrs. She has become increasingly aggressive. Always needs to get the last word in. She is abrasive towards her grandparents and uncles and aunts. I am the last person who tries for her. She was a 1st yr student last year and mid year she started telling me that the course was not for her. In October she told me that she had "crashed". She said that her life was out of control. She could not manage her pocket money, she was involved with the wrong friends and that she did things which she was very embarrassed about. I have watched her insane spending sprees since high school. When she would get money from her grandparents or for a birthday, she must spend all her pocket money. Not a cent is left over. She always makes grandiose plans to get involved in something but it never comes to fruition. It is good to have dreams and ambition but then we work our way towards it. My girl would state that she wants to achieve the impossible in record time. I will support but soon the activity stops and it is all forgotten. Over the past 4 years she has gained so much weight that she battles to find clothes. This must have an impact on her self esteem. She sleeps for hrs. She complains of not sleeping at night and that she falls asleep at daybreak. At one stage she was very involved and committed to the church and doing missionary work. She has witnessed the most astounding miracles. Yet after returning from a missionary outreach within weeks she would be away from the church and be partying and boozing it up with friends in clubs and pubs. You dont just drop in an out of Christianity! I regret to say that my daughter tells lies. We are all aware of these fables she tells and it is very humiliating. She dropped out of varsity as she said she could not focus on the lectures and that they were boring. My daughter is addicted to fast food. She hoards boxes of chocs in her cupboard,there are always empty McDonalds, etc packaging and polystyrene containers in her room. She does waitressing and she does it remarkably well. She diligently gets up and prepares for her shifts. Sometimes she will even take on a double shift. But when she comes home late at night she has bought additional food for herself and it seems as if she gorges on it quietly in her room. I would often clear out the rubbish and collect the containers from her cupboard. When addressing this with her she will only comment that she does not know what I am talking about. I am a person who tries to maintain a stable equilibrium in everything I do. My daughter is the opposite. She laughs too loud, has episodes of non stop talking, will not show respect in a company of friends or family who has come to visit her but will withdraw to her room and sleep for hrs till the next day. I need to beg her for days to get anything done. The smallest task is a major thing. She went to see a psychiatrist and returned from the appointment telling that is nothing is wrong. We reached a compromise that she would see a psychologist who would assist her with a roadmap for her life and help her with coping skills. The first 2 appointments went well and then she started missing appointments. She has said to me that there is nothing wrong with her. My daughter is constantly nauseous or has a headache or a pain somewhere. She will make an appointment to see our dr and have blood drawn. There is never anything wrong. As I am typing this it seems so small and insignificant, but over the years all the arguments, irrational behavior, withdrawal, inactivity, highs and lows, overeating, spending on nonsense, flights of fantasy just leaves me to wonder...how do I get her to admit that something is wrong and if she does not what do I do? (Cape Town South Africa)
I just wanted all of u guys to know that when i am feeling down, like now, i go back to my hub and read all the comments. You do not realize how much u help ME.... to know that i am not alone, to know that someone, somewhere is dealing with the same issues. Thanks for being there for me when u really didnt even know you were.This disease sucks and unless you have it or someone close to you has it, you might as well be speaking a foreign language. Sometimes I drift away from writing because the one thing i hate about medication is that it slows down my creativity, so writing becomes more of a chore than something I love to do, so from time to time i come back and read all of these wonderful comments and i feel your pain and compassion. Although it is very controversial, Merinol is now being prescribed for Bipolar. Who would have ever thought that? I do not take it but know alot of people who do and it works for them. Just a thought. Thanks again for all your support and you have no idea how much it has helped me to know that I am not alone.
Hugs,
dori
I have been married for 41 years and have always thought my husband's problems were alcoholism. The past few months I have been reading of the bipolar symptoms, and now I feel he just tries to soak it all up with alcohol. I have just realized that I have been wrong to get my feelings hurt and react with the same anger he feels. I am going to try to be more supportive, and even though he is too stubborn to get on meds, I am going to try and try to control his diet and do what else I can. I have put too many years into this marriage, and although I thought I was finally fed up with tip-toeing around him, tired of the tirades and put-downs. It is affecting our grandchildren now, but maybe if I try a little harder to understand him, I may be able to help him now and keep our family intact. He gets so immature and unstable, but maybe I can hang in there after reading your posts.
Thank you so much.. I'm currently in a almost 4 year relationship with my partner.. and I love them so dearly it was basically love at first sight and I changed their life. I helped them get on the right path and stopped them from doing drugs and bad things and I had to experience them being diagnose with this bipolar disorder this year, They have a history of bipolar disorder in their family. but this year is when I started to realize the mood swings, depression etc the most. and realized I've just been making it worst for them saying all the wrong things Like you said. after reading this I know what to do now because I really didn't know what to do before or anymore.. because I felt so hurt by the things they would tell me. and I really love them with all my heart. but I am so glad I came across this.
Thank you so much again!
Thank you for this informative hub. I wrote a poem about my bipolar brother for the contest, as he called me and I was extremely upset by the call. I live 3,000 miles away though, and all he did was yell. But when I do see him, I have learned to listen, not speak much. I don't criticize, or preach, or even refer to his condition. He finally was the one who told me he was diagnosed. He stays away from the family, which is small anyway. But I recognize the signs. He can paint every room in a house and not sleep for days. Then all he does is sleep. He is homeless much of the time and resists all our efforts to help him. But when he accepts help, he turns on us, and calls us every name in the book. I hate that he's so far and his GF left him, am so worried and scared. Angry too, though I don't let him see that. This time he just called swearing at us to mail him "his stuff." We don't have any "stuff" here, and don't even have a mailing address for him. We live in NJ where we had that freak snow storm before Halloween, and he called when we were freezing and without power for 6 days. Still, we didn't yell, he just hung up. It's so hard, and I realize it's hard for the bipolar person too. Thank you for your insights, and sharing, and I hope you are feeling well. Bless you.
@CROW
owowwww,we kind of have the same story. I just can't seem to get RID of him.No matter how hard I try,smh.
@ Maggie. I sympathize with you. Dealing with bipolar people is awful. Don't blame yourself. I have the opposite problem. I befriended a bipolar guy, now I can't get rid of him. He was very nice at the begining, but soon his true personality came out. He is also very rude and I keep telling him to buzz off, but he keeps coming back. Yuck. I have spent the last year listening to his obsessions over the most loathesome women. He is so selfish and jealous of me. He is slowly turning me into a negative person. I am not the only person who feels this way about him. He didn't tell me he was bipolar when I first met him, and now I feel tricked. He is also a control freak. I am focusing my attentions on more important endeavors and less on this guy. Anyways, this may sound cold but be greatful that your friend doesn't bother you anymore. I'm sure it is a blessing in disguise.
I was just wondering if i could ask a few questions? I think my 12 year old daughter is bi polar. She gets very depressed and when u yell at her she screams and yells back. She seems to be very disrespectful to people around her and if u disaplint her she real throws a fit she trashes her room. At times she even talks about suicide if she gets really upset. I really hope I can get some answers on weather to get her help and how to go about it
I need help, my best friend of many years is suppose to have been diagnosed with being bi-polar. I've never ever thought of it as a issue she was my best friend and I was gonna stand beside her with or without. Recently she said she prayed and god told her not to be my friend. She gave me a list of things she said I did and was but I haven't changed and we've been friends for years. I've questioned people and they have told me quit beating yourself up she was never your friend or she just wouldn't up and leave you. I've tried to understand, was I that bad of a person, where did I go wrong beat myself up to where I feel worthless. Is there anything I can do beside pray this is the second time this has happened and she was gone for 2years the last time. We are getting older and i don't want to lose my best friend of many years. Please help!!!
Isn't something we want to have or would choose to have. It's something we need to learn to grow from, we need to take it in stride and have people around us who know us as our personalities rather than our diseases to be there when we need to talk about something completely pointless for an hour cause that's all we can do right now. I talk so much and have so much to say because for once I feel like the people reading this will hear what I say as a thought rather than rambling which is what most of my in depth opinions are thrown off as. I don't want to stop writing because I never wanna stop talking about how it feels to be like this and how it feels to try and explain to the people you
love that you are different and we need to be accepted no matter what because the worst thing for a bipolar person is to have these strong feelings 24-7, not be able to regulate when you know it's time to be passionate (angry, loud, anxious, whatever you call that feeling that nobody has a word for yet except manic, or when it's time to chill and let it slide. Feelings aren't the same for us, nothing feels the same to us as it does to you. You will not get into a conversation about something you like more deeply and excitedly as a bipolar person does. You will not have the same reaction when something gets on your nerves as expediently as a bipolar person will. You will never be the same, you will never be able to make us happy or make us better by telling us the negatives of our disease and how it effects you. The ONLY way we will ever be our best, is if you try and get into our heads just a bit, think about how much stuff is running through or head at 50miles per second and realize how difficult it is for us to regulate our speech and our actions when you have a heart that has so much extra energy that can make ourselve our own worst enemy. Not a single bipolar person has ever gone on a manic or depressed episode and said or done something that at the time didn't seem wrong and realize when you calmed down there was no reason for it. We don't need a rhyme or reason for anything we do, that's why it can be so dangerous for us to think and act so freely. We hate the negative parts about our disease but cant live without the positive ones, it's apart of you that you don't wanna let go because of the huge chunk it plays in your personality. I can't see myself not being bipolar, I cant see myself feeling so wholesome about something that doubting it isn't an option, that by losing belief in that one thing is the same as a regular person losing a friend. Losing a pet or maybe even missing someone. Our thoughts and our experiences are so deeply rooted in our feelings that seperating them would make each thought and each memory lose some importance or specialness to us. If you read all that bravo. This shows you that its more than someone "flipping out and being sad sometimes and saying hurtful things." it's a different way of experiencing life and we will all have something extra when we leave this earth. A perspective that no regular person could choose, even begin to imagine, or dream to understand in their lifetime. I love all of you. So please love us back. We need to feel understood and that's the key to dealing with us. Understanding the life we live and the things we go through will make you a better person.
Hi, my names tyler. I'm 17, going to be a junior in high school and I am bipolar. What many people don't realize is that explaining to other people how you feel is half the dissapointment. Anybody that isn't bipolar can't understand even the simplest concepts of what our heads are like, what it's like to be able to say or do something that isn't who you are at all with such ease you question who you really are. Being 17 I'm a youngin, my symptoms probably havent exasperated to the point they will be. The thing about knowing that though is almost worse than not knowing your bipolar and living life thinking it's no big deal. Idk what i could turn into, idk what decisions I could make, and thats just being a teen and growing up. What bipolar is to me is the inability to make sense to anybody else. I don't get in a true depressive state that often. Most of my symptoms are manic. I have the ability to talk about something for 2 1/12 hours without anybody else saying anything. I try to explain my feelings but it's so hard because until you've spent a day in our heads you will never understand how hard the power and grip this can feeling dig into you. I never realized I always thought I was right even though I could very well know I was wrong until you mentioned it. Soul searching is one of the most confusing but also calming things a bipolar person can do. And if I ever come across something that I know is important I try and explain it to my mom (who is the person that catches the most of me) and as much as I try and as truly I believe in what I'm saying it can never mean as much to her as it did to me. We wear our hearts on our sleeves even if we don't want to. A bipolar person will take a simple word or sentence or action in a way that if you told a person take it, they couldn't even try to begin understanding. Im trying to explain my disease to as many people as possible as much as possible, even myself. I want people to understand that it is so hard for us to do what is right in someone elses eyes but not our own. We cannot believe in something that we didn't decide to believe in. No parent, boyfriend, husband, or friend can make us go against ourselves. We have to teach ourselves everything we know because otherwise we won't follow it. And thats bad because we can teach ourselves the wrong thing and may never be able to change that. I appreciate all the people who have said how bipolar
My son who is 32 yrs old has Bi Polar. He told me he was diagnosised when he was 19 yrs old and never told me. In Feb he got a DUI -- officer said he thought he smelled a "a faint ordor of alchohl" when he stopped him.Since that time he was had violent bouts of anger. Throwing and breakking thing. Argueing and screaming at me and friends. Evert time he reads about himself in the newspaper he goes on a rampage. About 2 weeks ago on a a major highway he was walking and deliberatly knocked over the construction barrels on the road, was drunk and got arrested. 2 weeks before that he had a screaming fit because I would not give him money. I thought he would go buy beer with it. While screaming and throwing things he told me he was looking for a piece of wire so he could choke me to death with it. I went out the front door of the house got in my pick up truck and was going to leave when he came running and jumped on the back of the pick up truck. I was affaird he was going to choke me and drove faster. He fell off. Ended up unconscious all bloody and in the hosiptal. A couple of weeks later I talked him into going to out patient at our local mental health center. He got meds but does not take them like he should. Some days he takes 4 at a time other days not at all. Some times with beer. He gets really upset if I should bring up hiis pending court cases. From your hub and all that has been written. I see now that he is not just "acting out". That he really has a serious illness. Where can I fund out about Behavior Management for Bi Polor? A Big Thanks To Everyone for writting. Sincerely, Confused
Oops, my post posted by accident.
Hearing that there are times both my wife and my own attempts are futile, just best to walk away, let it pass, and wait for good times was very encouraging. I will take your advice to heart and learn to not take her episodes as personally or discoraging as I have in the past.
I used your article as a place to learn, and a space to vent. Thanks again.
Thank-you.
I know your piece is old now, almost two years, but I wanted to thank you for writing it. I am a young man, 22, married to my soul mate and high school sweet heart who is diagnosed with bipolar. We just has a very difficult morning together, and in her episode I was told I was told very hurtful things. I felt like any ground we've made in working with her disease was a waste and wasn't making a difference...until I read your post. Just reading someone with the disorder admitting that sometimes some with the disorder acts irratiiationally, or is wrong but truly think they are right, well hearing that put me at ease.
I have a friend who was diagnosed with bipolar, and while we used to be inseparable, she now slowly detaches herself from activities. She will often make excuses to get out of plans, but will then become upset if I question her about it. Is this normal, and what can I do to address this issue without upsetting her?
Well, i have once again got from under my rock. Its niceto know that you guys can talk with each other on this hub and share your experiences. Although I am the one Bipolar i can understand where all of you are coming from. There comes a point when you have to have the self-realization that the actions one takes even though they suffer a mental illneess will one day haunt them. It is like we live in another world that no one seems to understand, although I and others can understand your pain thru reflecting on your past mistakes and LEARN. At some point unless you are extremely manic or extremely depressed, you realize what you are doing. Don't be fooled. Adapting to Bipolar, if that is even possible for some, requires a complete lifestyle change. Medicine, exercise, therapy and having those who love u enough to be there. It may be hard to deal with that person but you are going to have to make them, like a child, do what is in their best interest. The spending sprees, drug use, infidelity and promiscuity..... they are all symptoms and should not continue if on meds. I know that meds are awful and the side effects are worse than the bipolar. I was on a med that made me throw up everytime i took it. You have to pull that little bit of strength deep inside u and go on. If you are bipolar, it is not your family's problem to take care of you unless you are out of control, in that case you should be hospitilized. Yes making lists are great. Lack of concentration is a problem. Hell, i wish soeone would make some for me!! Hang in there, i know that sounds repetitive but thats all u can do. hang in there...........
hugs,
dori
Hi, I am new with dealing with this. my little sister is Bipolar, just found out 3 months ago, she is 46yrs old. out of 7 brothers and sisters, I am the one left to deal with her, everyone else has quit because of the things she has done to them. I dont know why she singled me out not to attack (maybe someone here can tell me) Last week I gave her a "list" of things to do for me and to have proof that she has done them. and she did the whole list with proof that she did. But she had an "explosion" (thats what I call them) on monday and my older sister called me and said "your charge" went to moms demanding money. So I got dressed from sitting on the couch doing nothing (cause Im on vacation this week and I can) and went to hunt her down. found her at home. asked her if she was calm. she said yes she was fine now. but she had a bad morning. I told her point blank.....I told you that you have to come to me for things. NO ONE is going to give you money. they are all to tell her that she needs to talk to Kay. that they are not allowed to give her money. I will make sure she has food/gas/her phone a roof over her head, anything she needs but not A BIG AMOUNT OF MONEY. you see I think she is buying POT. I have told her to stop. that I will have her do drug testing to be sure. Do I need to get her into rehab for it? I gave her another LIST to do today, and I will check on her tomorrow. is the list thing good????? I can use any advice you want to give me.
Thank you
Kay
REALLY...I just don't know what to do..she is so running any friends and family she had away...and I am going to be the only one she has!! Her sister is worried but is about to give up and no one reads up on this and knows what they need to know about what she is going through!! I love her so much...I am so worried about her children having this disorder too. I am just about to go crazy with worry and now I think it is coming between my husband and me!! He does NOT understand that she is not this way because she wants to be!!
krummi...Be very thankful she has no kids..My daughter has 3 children by 3 different men. She makes very bad decisions when it comes to men. I love my grandchildren, but do not want to raise them.
This disease is so hard to understand!! I just feel like I am the one tha has to walk on eggshells so that I don't trigger any reaction from her. the other day she got mad and got out of my car at a red light..I left her because I knew if I tried to talk her into the car there was going to be a seen and I was not going to do it!!
I feel so Guilty for giving up..but I think it might make her take responsibility...usually if she feels like she has really gotten out of control she will admit herself. The problem is she really can't afford her meds so she goes off of them. and she says she hates how she feels when she is on them!
I know God is in control...I try to give it up but I always take it back!
Roadqueen: My daughter is 27 and today is my day to cut her loose I think. I don't know what to do anymore either! I love her, and I have provided a therapist and doctor to help, but if she doesn't want it, I do not know what to do. She is intelligent, gifted, but does so many things that counteract the docs work. She has a loving husband, but he is ready to run. No children thank God. I pray, but .....
WOW...I really needed this site today! I have a 29 year old daughter that has been dealing with this a very long time. Whe was not diagnosed until her 20's but as I look back on her childhood I know she has ALWAYS been bipolar. She is embarassing to be out in public with since she is very loud and wants to let everyone hear her problems! I love her so much but am to the point that I have to let her deal with it. She has kids and I feel for them! She knows I love her but at this point I am letting go till she will take control on her own!
I don't know if I am doing the right thing but when I am always there she knows that she does't have to take responsibility!
Am I wrong? I just don't know what to do anymore!
I have a daughter that is bipo i have custody of her 3 kids she sometime runs off does drugs says ugly stuff about me, she tells her friends awfull lies about me and her child hood things that never happend, i dont understand why she targets me everytime she goes manic,I have tried to help her i have bailed her out of jail so many times brought her home and with in 3 to 5 months she is gone again, she recently came home 3 months ago the last month she has started leaving and be gone for 3 days and come home saying she was stranded no way home, i didnt say anything just let it slide by i said nothing negitive,now as of today she has been gone 4 days her kids cry for her,i got a call from a friend of hers saying she was using drugs again and was in a motel saying she was suicidal her friend call police they picked her up and took her to hospital, now she is telling everyone i call police on her that i dont love her she is mad at me, but all in all i have not said one negitive word to her i have not seen her in 4 days she is now out of hospital i dont know where she is and i just dont know what else to do, im so tired of her babays 13,9,and 6 yrs old cry for her, HELP ME WHAT DO I DO???
This was an interesting reading. My boyfriend is bipolar and its a challenge. We found out no long ago we are pregnant. It seems like he has a lack of concern for me and the baby. He never asks about doctors visits or anything. Before the preganancy was confirmed he was happy and ecstatic about it but now that it's confirmed he has no concern.... It doesnt matter if he wants to be in my life but our baby will need him...
Praying he has a breakthrough before our baby arrives.
Amber,
Hello , I really found the information on here very useful. I have been with this guy for over 6 years but for the past two he has changed dramatically. I often question if he is Bipolar, and after reading and doing lots of research I think there's a high chance he might be. Ive tried my best at convincing him to seek help but he refuses and pretty much pushes me away every time I try to help him. This usually happens when he gets in his very irritable moods, when he feels like talking or being around no one. These moods can last for 2-3 weeks and then he suddenly breaks down n becomes depressed and gets very anxious. At times hes in a very good mood but it usually doesn't last too long. He becomes a total different person when he becomes irritable and he acts like he has no heart or cares for anyone's feelings. What do you suggest I can do to try and convince him to get help? Ive tried so many times but he says there's absolutely nothing wrong with him and he needs no help. I wonder if Lithium would work for his case? Any feedback is greatly appreciated,I just dont know what to do anymore and at times I feel like its going to drive me off the edge. Thank u for your time.
Thank you all for your honest sharing...it has helped me to read it. I am in a relationship with a man who has untreated bipolar and the rollercoaster is very real..and also I never know what to say, or not say, to do or not do..because I never know what will set off a strong emotional and sometimes mental reaction from him. I have been with him for 7 years...and at this point I am getting worn out from all the ups and downs..including 3 alcoholic relapses in which he almost died, and 2 admissions to a psych. ward..following which he promptly went off his medications that were given to him in the hospital to bring him out of having delusions and psychosis...
I am a patient and loving person..I just don't know if I can do this much longer...he is getting older..and so am I...I cannot see him improving as he totally refuses to look at this diagnosis or meds. for it.
This article has lifted one of the many weights on me at the moment. I was diagnosed with Bi polar II disorder nine years ago and was medicated but being in high school no one wants to be the crazy girl on medicine. I thought I could handle it myself. I thought I was doing an okay job, I thought the feeling of worthlessness was normal and sleeping around to feel wanted was normal. I met my husband a little over three years ago and he made my life worth living. In the beginning of our relationship we got pregnant and we were unable to keep the baby I wanted too but with the dropping heart rate and being young on top of it, it just wasn’t the right decision for us. I was sad and would get a little uneasy at times but would just put it on the back burner. Slower after that that we got engaged and married 8 months later, I had a second thoughts about the marriage because we had lost something but I knew I loved him and those feelings would pass. Our first year of marriage went well we had our ups and downs but were doing okay. Slowly after that I got weight loss surgery because I had gained 80 pounds within a year which cause me to be unhappy. Let’s skip a little further for year now my husband and I have been doing our separate things and I just thought he hated me and were going through a funk I would tell him that I would feel like roommates and thought he hated me and would try to reassure me that he loved me and I was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen but I think I was far too gone into depression I would tell him I can’t understand why I am not happy I have things people would die for. I mean I am 27 have a husband who loves me, we own a home and have to great pets and I felt trapped and unhappy and I told him I needed help he said that it’s a funk and we would pass it. I found myself going out all the time and finding attention elsewhere to make myself wanted and worth something. I ended up cheating on him here and there. Which I know is not right and I have never cheated on anyone in my life and can’t understand why it would happen when I am married. I was trying to feel wanted but in reality it made me feel even more worthless. I ended up telling my husband about two – three weeks ago because I got to the point where I couldn’t breathe and live with the guilt and I have never kept anything from him needless to say he was beyond upset and I know cheating is NOT okay. But, I got in these moods where I just hated myself and it kept happening because I was already worthless. I am currently now going to therapy my therapist thinks I am for Bi Polar II and wants me to get re-evaluated so I can become medicated. My husband loves me and wants to stay together and he forgives me but I am at the point where I have not forgave myself so everything I have done before we were married or even when we were (like details) keep coming out which I know I should stop but I don’t know what to do. I am at the point where I am dying inside. I am trying to forget everything right now because he wants to move forward and get better so we can move on. I am trying but I am hurting (which I should be because I did this). We have a Therapy appointment tomorrow which he is going to and I have psychiatrist appointment tomorrow which he is not going to I want him to but he is not ready. I am really dying inside to the point I don’t want to leave my bed. I wish I knew more about this disorder before I thought I could handle it myself because I hit rock bottom and almost lost everything. I just can’t bare what I did.
This article has lifted one of the many weights on me at the moment. I was diagnosed with Bi polar II disorder nine years ago and was medicated but being in high school no one wants to be the crazy girl on medicine. I thought I could handle it myself. I thought I was doing an okay job, I thought the feeling of worthlessness was normal and sleeping around to feel wanted was normal. I met my husband a little over three years ago and he made my life worth living. In the beginning of our relationship we got pregnant and we were unable to keep the baby I wanted too but with the dropping heart rate and being young on top of it, it just wasn’t the right decision for us. I was sad and would get a little uneasy at times but would just put it on the back burner. Slower after that that we got engaged and married 8 months later, I had a second thoughts about the marriage because we had lost something but I knew I loved him and those feelings would pass. Our first year of marriage went well we had our ups and downs but were doing okay. Slowly after that I got weight loss surgery because I had gained 80 pounds within a year which cause me to be unhappy. Let’s skip a little further for year now my husband and I have been doing our separate things and I just thought he hated me and were going through a funk I would tell him that I would feel like roommates and thought he hated me and would try to reassure me that he loved me and I was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen but I think I was far too gone into depression I would tell him I can’t understand why I am not happy I have things people would die for. I mean I am 27 have a husband who loves me, we own a home and have to great pets and I felt trapped and unhappy and I told him I needed help he said that it’s a funk and we would pass it. I found myself going out all the time and finding attention elsewhere to make myself wanted and worth something. I ended up cheating on him here and there. Which I know is not right and I have never cheated on anyone in my life and can’t understand why it would happen when I am married. I was trying to feel wanted but in reality it made me feel even more worthless. I ended up telling my husband about two – three weeks ago because I got to the point where I couldn’t breathe and live with the guilt and I have never kept anything from him needless to say he was beyond upset and I know cheating is NOT okay. But, I got in these moods where I just hated myself and it kept happening because I was already worthless. I am currently now going to therapy my therapist thinks I am for Bi Polar II and wants me to get re-evaluated so I can become medicated. My husband loves me and wants to stay together and he forgives me but I am at the point where I have not forgave myself so everything I have done before we were married or even when we were (like details) keep coming out which I know I should stop but I don’t know what to do. I am at the point where I am dying inside. I am trying to forget everything right now because he wants to move forward and get better so we can move on. I am trying but I am hurting (which I should be because I did this). We have a Therapy appointment tomorrow which he is going to and I have psychiatrist appointment tomorrow which he is not going to I want him to but he is not ready. I am really dying inside to the point I don’t want to leave my bed. I wish I knew more about this disorder before I thought I could handle it myself because I hit rock bottom and almost lost everything. I just can’t bare what I did.
It's not an easy illness to deal with because I have to cope with it. I empathize what you wrote, especially the roller coaster...it's like a ride of my life forever and yet each mood creates a new experience for me and learning about myself as a person of worth. I think there are moments that my well being is gone, but I fight and try to get it back by doing the things I enjoy. Thanks for sharing =)
My 25 year old daughter is bipolar. I have been dealing with this for a long time.
She and her man and child live with me. No money lack of respect and worse of all now she has become violent with me. I don't deserve this. I have tried everything to help her but I will not let this be her excuse.
My fiance has BP and the past 2 and a half years have been so hell! He is on his medication and it helps but the problem is he has been treating people wrong for 31 years so now he has to learn not to be so nasty!!!
Some days, like today, I just feel like giving up because it feels like I will just never be good enough....I am trying to be his hero but I feel like I am failing miserably....I love him so much but its so aweful coming home at night, wondering if I am going to be received with love and affection or be treated like a brick wall! It's draining me emotionally...I feel like I cannot carry on anymore....I feel like such a failure! I have a 5 year old daughter who absolutely loves this man as much as I do...If I leave him then it will be the second man she has lost in her short little life...How do I stop her from being hurt?
Tori, sorry to be so behind on comments, You need to look out for you. I know you love this guy but being bipolar and stable does not mean you can carry his load. If he his bipolar he is not going to just openly say ok i am, it is not a mental disorder that anyone wants to have. Is he depressed, manic, frustated? Be sure to look after your well being, if you are stable and doing well this could cause a relapse. YOU FIRST!!!
hugs,
dori
I have a boyfriend who I, my mom, and my dad think is bi-polar but anytime i try to bring it up he tells me to shut up, calls me annoying, or ignores me. I'm bi-polar myself and am medicated but i'm slowly becoming unstable. I really want to make it work with this guy, but he gets so angry, and says really mean things, i just feel i'm hitting a brick wall everytime i try to help him.
Boomerang22,
Thanks so much for stopping by and reading my hub. Bipolar is sticky in everything! Keep hanging on and remember always, "this too shall pass"....
dori
This is exactly what I am have been looking for. A piece of personal interior information in order to get it from someone like me & share it with someone that isnt like us to try & explain or make sense of it. Its a very sticky situation when it comes to relationships! Thank You so much!!
Mick
I am so happy that you found this helpful, remember that this time of year it is easy for the blues to set i so tay active. Excercise but also rest when you need too. Good Luck to you and yoursduring this Holiday Season. Ma god be with you..
hugs
dori
Im glad to have found this article having just recently been released from a mental health hospital. It has helped me explain my condition to my wife because she is having a very hard time understanding it. Im glad I have Bi polar because it runs in my family but only one other person has been dianosed with it. Hopefully I can help stop the cycle in my family with the help and knowledge or people like yourself.
I hope you are doing well :)
to all of you, thanks for reading and responding. If you have someone that you are close to that you feel may suffer from this illness i am sure you can;t concvince them of it and they probably refuse help. It is very important that you sek help for them. The depression and mania both can cause suicidal thoughts.
maintaining at a stable pace is not easy, but who would of thought that the Bipolar Child would work hard enough to learn coping skills and they don't always work, but i am here and hopefully i can help someone along the way.
hugs
dori
My childs father has bipolar disorder and at times he says some hurtful things and i try and not say things or argue back because i know where it can lead i try and distance myself from him but when i do it seems to get him even more upset and that makes me not want to talk to him...my question is how can i sit down and have a conversation with him without him getting upset and the hurtful things coming after?
Thank you for this hub. I too, just 'happened' upon it, and am glad I did.
"Like you have actually lost feeling to your surroundings" - I couldn't have said it better myself. I am bipolar and, through all of the stigma combined with my own self-destructive thoughts, rarely have spoken to people about it. When people ask what my medication is for I just say 'oh nothing'. Luckily, two years ago I found both my amazing, understanding husband, and the best friend I could ever ask for. We are each others' sponsors. As much as it hurts to admit, if it weren't for them I would not be here.
This was very well written, so well that I might even suggest it as reading material to some people in my life.
Thanks, very much.
Hi, I think one of my friends may be bipolar. Sometimes she just snaps out of nowhere for absolutely no reason. At first I thought something I (or someone else) had said to her had touched a nerve but it started to happen frequently. it freaks other people out and im starting to get worried it maks things very awkward and she doesn't even seem to take notice, she acts like nothing happened. I've only known her for a year so I don't know how long this has been going on.
Hi my wife was diagnosed with a type of agitated depression 3 years ago and had a couple of spells in hospital following an overdose. The last couple of years have been great and it looked like our life was moving in the right direction except for the occasional mild set back. The problem now has been that over the last 6 months she has experienced cyclical mood swings and at least 1 hypo mania. Typically she feels like she no longer loves me and makes plans to leave etc. This is followed by a low period where say's she has clarity and how sorry she is and that her mind was racing and she was not sure what she was thinking etc. She has also said she had feelings for a colleague at work but has since quit her job to remove that distraction. Although like every relationship it's not perfect but loving and respectful I worry about these emotional swings she can be so loving and sweet, making plans for the future etc then a few weeks later sit me down and tell me she care for me but her hearts not in it and in the same sentence I'm a handsome guy and will meet someone else and have a family. We are childhood sweethearts and have been together for 17 years and married for 5. Any advice would be welcomed.....
to commitedGirl and all of those above you, i really do appreciate you taking the time to read this, to all of you that suffer from Bipolar or love someone who is Bipolar or even hate someone Bipolar (lol) there is alot to be learned about this illness and I have my own opinions from where it somewhat originated to the point that close to 30 percent of the population are diagnosed and there are a large number of homeless, displaced individuals that have no idea what the problem is. Pisons are full of them and I pray that one day the awareness of this illness will make people understand, the doctors, the court system, everyone. It is no different than cancer, you just don't have a given time to live, it last forever. Take care all and be patient. Patience is a virtue, sometimes all anyone can ask for is for someone to listen. Even if they don't understand, to just listen. God Bless
Dori
Reading this has helped me a lot. I have had a boyfriend of almost three years now who has severe bi polar. I know what it means to have to be patient and understanding. Although my own frustration can get the best of me. This has helped me realize what is going through his head when he does not make sense to me at all. The "always right" part is definately something that is hard to deal with. However, I am in love with this man. I will do whatever it takes to learn about his disorder. All I want is to be there for him and be understanding, and I want to thank you so much for making many things a lot clearer. I will be commited to stand by him and be understanding. Thank you again.
Thanks fortunerep for writing this hub. I see by the comments that you have brought more understanding to those who live with or who love someone with bipolar. My illness, and my PTSD, have been severe and debilitating enough, that I have made a conscious decision, not to get involved with or marry someone. I was newly divorced when I was diagnosed with both illnesses. I know I would be hard to live with, and don't want to put someone through living with me when I am unstable. My lows and mixed moods are life threatening. If was married or in a relationship when I was diagnosed, I would have desired a very patient, understanding mate, who would make a considered effort to find out how he could respond to me and cope with my illness. But Iknow it would not be easy for him. For those of you who have a mate, or close loved one with bipolar or any other mental illness, get help in learning how to cope with and respond to your loved one when they are in throes of a crisis, are just regularly having mood swings or other symptoms for long periods of time. Please make the effort (hopefully with your whole heart) to learn as much as you can about your loved ones illness. And please remember, if it is your spouse, the vows that said, "In sickness and in health..."
God bless.
Thanks for the great work you did on this hub. Obviously is it very common and those that suffer with this and those that love those that suffer with it will be helped with this great information. Peace
Trevor has uttered 'bipolar' once in the corridor of my building at Charnwood Road. I still do not understand it very well, just like almost all of it since a bit before him, as you will read from my websites.
Must be because you can only be insane if you fight for what could be called 'principled life', once 'everyone and everything works against you' in case you do! See my case: Am slaved in full democracy for shocking ten years in a row. Guess why? I stood up for my rights, just that, and did that trusting that AT LEAST in a first world nation they would believe I deserved not only equal treatment to that given to men, but perhaps better treatment in at least a few things. Shame on me, full insanity then, for not even in the first world do they believe that... . Insanity is a cultural concept, do not forget. Insanity means contrary to the vast majority, or abnormal behavior.
Please visit my websites and help, visit especially the website on 'how you can help' immediately. I obviously need urgent help, for ten years ago. I also need to stop being slaved and get justice to best human kind may provide to me ASAP. Obviously. Call me insane again, for nobody else thinks so, otherwise I would not be like this for so long. People confound me with guinea pig, house pet, and etc.
My websites are at www.hubpages.com/profile/MARIAMORTA. Pls rush. We obviously have no time.
im dating someone who is bipolar, now sometimes shes very easy to passify but if its like a full on episode no matter what i do i lose. I try walking away she wont let me leave i stay and she says anything she can think of to hurt me, i get angry she gets angry that im angry, i dont get angry shes angry that im not angry i try not speaking and shes angry im not talking. What can i do to help with that? I love her so much but when it goes there im helpless and hurt. what can i do?
Having a hard time dealing with manic/depressed boyfriend. When he was depressed he wanted to be doing things with me. Now that he is ok, not manic (he says he has had a breaktrhough) he wants to spend time with others. He says he is catching up for the lost years. I feel as if i am becoming angry, jealous and insecure. The insecurity is because he is now having ahard time being intimate. I have talked to him about this and it is as if he is trying to be intimate to please me but it is not truly in his heart. When I tell friends about this they tell me he will never be able to meet my needs. When I talked about it with him he says that I am only looking at the negative. We are both in our 50s. I can not think about a future with this person because I am looking at his mood all the time. I don't ant to be a caretaker and I feel like a partner should be able to depend on someone. I find myself saying he is nice to me and tries everytime I tell him of my needs, but....
Diagnoses can take years. Or you can recieve the correct diagnoses right away. Truthfully as a bipolar I think the worst reaction comes from my mother. She tries so hard to help, but has not an ounce of true understanding. Like when I tease, it can be cruel. It is not meant that way. That is why I only tease those that I love the most. I can only hope that they understand the feeling behind it.
Also, since my meds were settled, I have been in the hypomanic phase. It is not a true manic. But I can settle for what I have. And be thankful for it. As for the strong feelings, I believe that we feel doubly what others feel. When you prick our finger, we don't just bleed, we gush. I read recently where someone commented "Are you sure bipolars are human?" If I bleed from what you do to me, what do you think my reaction would be if I hurt you? Wicca's threefold law has nothing on us. A lot of the suicides are because we hurt someone verbally completely by accident. So yeah, we are human. We are the human heart. All emotions, and a lot of the arts, flow freer through our veins than so called 'normal' humans. So if you are bipolar, you can beat it, And there are good things that come out of it. The war never ends, but you can win the battles.
Hello, I found this very interesting. Do you know who I should contact for this? I need some help...I experience these episodes of manic and depression. I'm only 19 and I feel like my mood swings have already ruined my life. How can I get help from this...I haven't been Diagnosed
Hi Dori,
I enjoyed your realistic view of bipolar. Since we all have differences, Alot of what you said applies to me, some doesn't. But it's very hard, when you also come from a dysfunctional family of emotional abuse, and have (we all do I'm sure) families who just don't understand.
I have been in a 5yr relationship and he understands some, without going to couple's therapy or anything, but he does a lot wrong too.
I hope you will read one of mine :) peace(love)joy
Slock62,
When I was first diagnosed with bipolar i said bi-what? I had never heard of it. Now it seems as though it is rampid. I dont know but it makes me wonder if it is caused by not only genetics but chemical imbalances caused by pollution, what we eat, as well as stress. I am sure there are very few people that don't suffer from extreme stress these days. I can't believe the responses to this hub, it does make one wonder how one mental disorder can be so widespread and every doctor treats it differently. By doing my own extensive research I just simply told my doctor that this is my body, my brain and I know what works for me, deal with it. Meds for this condition are awful. Side effects are hard to deal with, so I go with what I can handle, get plenty of excercise and rest. Only God Knows Why.
hugs
dori
Thank you for the additional insight. I live with a bipolar person and sometimes I am 'lost' for ideas about what to do. However, this hub allowed me to look again at my situation.
I have never visited a hub that had so many responses. It makes you realize how deeply this condition touch our society. I wonder if this is a worldwide condition (the large number of cases)or if it is particular to the US. This hub is of course just representational of the depth of the problem but it seems a lot for this one website.
I wonder what the opinion of a Physicologist would be about all the responses to you Hub. Might be very good information from a profesional standpoint.
My son has this condition but refuses treatment. He thinks his behavior is like everyone else. It is getting easier thru the years. He is 45 and is beginning to think about consequences a lot these days. Unfortunately it has caused him much pain through the years. I am learning to just let him be and not try to fix him. I still forget sometimes but he lets me know immediately.
Thanks for all of your personal insight and sharing what must be very painful for you .
God Bless You
Dear Readers,
I apologizr for not responding to comments, ofcourse being bipolar sometimes you loose interest, no mitivation, depressed for no reason, it cripples you, so maybe now you understand a litle of what we go through, during these times just be patient with your loved one, they will bounce back, I am proof of that and I am back.
hugs,
dori
Very nicely written. As difficult as it is to live with bipolar, it is easy to forget what it is like for my family to live with me. My husband once told me that there were times he was afraid to say or do anything because of how I would react. I remember feeling that way as a kid growing up with an extremely bipolar dad. The difference for me is that I have chosen to treat my illness. It took some time to find a good balance of medications that did enough to keep me stable without making me an emotionless zombie. Those who are willing to stay with us and help us through our bipolar disorder and love us through it all deserve a gold medal!
My exboyfriend has bipolar disorder. He knows he has a problem, but refuses to take the proper medication. He takes valium, xanax and whatever he can get his hands on from friends, than abruptly stops when he runs out. I told him I am thru and have to see other people. He called me a user and was very angry. I told him I'm sorry but he needs to take ownership of his own illness, read up on it and take the right meds.
You certainly have some keen insight involving bipolar disorder! I've had some friends who suffer from either depression or manic depression, and I must admit I feel like saying, "Why don't you just snap out of it and enjoy life while you can?" I wish all sufferers luck, and hope that pill-popping is not the answer. (I like that you use pictures of children as your avatar.) Later!
Thank you I feel better knowing that someone else feels the same way or somewhat simalar. can you help me more plz i crash all the time i cant keep a boyfriend they all tell my i'm crazy i lost my kids because of this illness i want them back so bad but the court says i need to be in control of this b4 i get them back they mean meds but the meds make me feel slow i'm only 25 i cant feel like that when i'm on meds i cant interact with my kids plz help me
Dear Fortunerep,
I can't help be moved by your hub, both the articulate writing and the comments you've received. I have a 35 year diagnosis of Bipolar and 25 years on meds without an episode.. I now work as a psychotherapist specializing in adult onset Bipolar disorder. Although I've been able to create a life for myself and am fairly well contained, I still deal with my agitation or impatience with loved ones on a daily basis. It seems this illness never ends, it just brings up something new to deal with. That could also be said of any life, I suppose. At least that's the view for this 61 year old.
An entry on your hub reminds me of a phrase I remember when "in a mood" and want to have the last word about what's right and who's wrong in a disagreement. The phrase is, "You can be right or you can be happy". Thanks for your hub pages!
Thank you very much
dori
This an excellent hubpage.
Great article, that is what it feels like to me. A long ride on a rollercoaster that I don't remember buying a ticket for. But I have learned to cope and lead a almost normal life. Please see my hubs dealing with my illnesses. Hang in there!!
Warmest regards,
Chris
You are so right on, I appreciate hearing from one who has bipolar disorder and knows exactly what it's like. We as supporters, friends and family of one who has this illness must educate ourselves and be supportive not judgemental. You are expressing so much here of what I have learned to do or not do as a parent/supporter. I just wish so many others would understand it's a very real illness and not 'in your heads'. Some people just don't 'get it'.
swosugrad09,
thanks to you as well, what school did you graduate? been sittting here trying to spell it out!
dori
Thanks for writing this to help me, and everyone else out there understand bipolar better.
gauriparakash.
If your friend has bipolar I am sure he knows that something is wrong. Maybe he don't want to admit it. He might already now and refuses to take meds etc. As long as he doesnt' become suicidal, there is nothing that you can do. Just hope it doesn't get that far, try asking him if he as ever heard of it, or talk about someone else with the disorder and see how he reacts.
thanks for stopping by,
dori
so i have a friend who might have this disorder. i mean he definitely has most of the symptoms that you have mentioned. but he doesnt know thay he has this disorder. and i am pretty sure telling him or even suggesting him that he might have bipolar will not help and he will laugh it off or get really upset with me. how do i help him?
Metronicity,
thanks for pointing out a mis-spelled word, always welcome~~~~
Filipino girls
thanks for your comment and stopping by,
dori
Informative and thought-provoking article
It's "spending sprees" not "Spending spress, Euphoria, Increase in Sex Drive..."
Khmohsin,
thanks. I hope that people will gain an understanding of this illness. Thanks for stopping by!
dori
tiffnay & co,
yea, jewelery makes everything better!
dori
By your hub i understand about the bipolar that is great job which you have done.
here
very educational hub thanls
Corri, Lapis and Netty
Thanks for all your comments, and Lapis the way you seem to handle it sounds great, I am so glad it works for you.
dori
I don't what to say, Only I hope they find a cure for it someday,
It is now proven scientifically that we become what we eat.
I was a severe case of bipolar and I cured my self from the curse by simply changing what I eat.
We are indeed what we eat because what we eat becomes the blood that fuel our veins.
I stopped eating sugar, stopped eating fast food, stopped drinking coffee and stopped smoking cigarettes. It took me 3 years to accomplish this major change in my diet.
Today, because I eat tons of raw fruits and vegetables, I am free from the mood swings of bipolar. Today, I wake up every morning happy. I am happy because my brain is alive with enzymes from the raw fruits and veggies I eat.
I love med rare steaks as well, blood from red meat is filled from amino acids.
To be a bipolar is to have a chemical imbalance in the blood stream. To free yourself from this curable disease can only be done if you become the best caregiver to your body and your brain. The more you research about what your brain and your blood needs, the healthier you become.
The pahrmaceutical companies and the medical world is drugging with legal prescribed drugs all the bipolar victims. The Pharmaceutical world is Corporate America making billons of dollars off of our back.
My mom died of a curable disease. She died of the side effects of the medications she was taking.
The doctors told her that if she stops taking her medications she would die. What the doctors did not tell her, nor the Pharmacist, is that if she continued taking the medications, the side effects would be her own death.
Voila !
Thanks for writing this.
I liked this hub. I found it helpful. I find that having a routine that doesn't change helps me. I used to sleep for months at a time. But I force myself to bed early and up early it makes a difference. You have to learn to live with it. But don't let it rule your life.
I had no idea that bipolar is a serious condition. I now have an idea on how to deal with such peoples.
sandra, Becca, Rick and Linda, thanks all for the comments, If you I could write on paper every provoking and imaginable thought that crosees my mind it would take years. It is hard to grasp that creativty and hold onto long enough before it escapes me. It is like a shooting star. Meds and support are so important and it may take years to get your medication stablilzed. I have other hubs about Bipolar that I hope you find interesting, it may help you or someone you love.
hugs
dori
Hi,I too am bipolar. I've been on meds since 1989. I'm going to write a hub on my experiences as well, to help others. i never miss my meds. But it took till 2000 to find the right meds. My life was a rollercoaster till I got the right meds however. It's a brain chemistry problem. Nothing you can do except take your meds.
This really resonates with me - Great Hub!
A close family member has this condition and she has been to Hell and back. Hospitalised, drugs, drink and worse.
The good news is she found positive help from an Occupational Therapist who helped her get back into normal living again. She got a volunteer job in a charity shop and then became the (paid)assistant manager. She then went back to University and qualified as an Occupational Therapist herself and is now working in the community mental health field with the NHS in London.
She believes that meds are important but so is self management. She is now making a real difference to the care of mental illness and regularly challenges the prejudices within the health care system.
As you say, many people with Bipolar are exceptionally talented and we need to respect and nurture those who suffer form this condition!
This is a very educational and passionate hub. The subject has interested me for awhile to understand what is going on and what it takes just to through a day sometimes. Thank you for putting this down on digital paper for us all.
Becca
Thanks for the advice. I have a really good friend that is bi-polar. This helps to understand what he is going through even more.
Beth,
Just look at my avatar and tell me one reason why I shouldn't try as hard as I can to make the best out of what life has handed me. I just wish that people would learn to focus on the positive aspects of it. It just has to be controlled. Meds is a must, if you have someome close to you that is bipolar, be a friend and make sure they are taking their meds, you could be saving their life.
hugs
dori
You have provided a vast amount of information that is greatly appreciated. I am beginning to understand how it is to be bi-polar and how to relate to people who are afflicted through reading your hubs as one of many sources that I am relying on. Thank you.
Excellent hub and lots of terrific information in the comments as well. I think that this is a very serious health concern that more people need to understand to be able to provide support, compassion and effective strategies for friends and family dealing with the issue. I like your comment of thinking of it as Diabetes with regards to taking medications!
Thank you for this very informative hub on how to help and deal with someone afflicted with the bipolar disorder. I have had a few friends and a niece afflicted by bipolar or manic depressive disorder so I know how important it is for this kind of information.
Amy,
Bless you, The opnly "test" for Bipolar would be a DNA test which is hardly ever done. The doctors go by symptoms. You should be prescribed a mood stablizer, (lithium, Depakote, abilify and there are more to get your chemicals balanced and sometimes, they can be discontinued and replaced with antidepressants and anti-anxiety meds. That is what worked for me. Please keep in touch, If you have any questions I will certainly try to help you.
hugs
dori
im 21years old and have been to the doctors this morning with these symtoms i have just accidently landed on this page and chose to read it.since age 14 ive felt different im at the point now where this 'difference' is taking over my life and ruining all my relationships.my doctors keep trying anti depressants and have now referred me to a specialist.i feel like my heads guna explode and i just want to get out of here feel like im holding myself down waiting for the help i need.but im scared how do they test you for bi polar
My friends boyfriend has bipolar disorder, its rough on both of them but they are still together and hanging in there.
Dane,
I had behavior thereapy for 8 years, I have had it for 17 years so have realized the triggers, the stressors, and can control them very well. I do have my moments, but overall it is ok. I think for me there was just a runing point, where you have to decide if you are going to let the illness control you or control the illness. After years I decided to learn to control it and avoid anything that stresses me too much. I have studied to all, even the the chromosone that carries the gene, it also carries anemia, color blindness and dyslexia. It get s me on occasion but I control it.
My heart goes out to you, Dori, and to others who have added their thoughts and experiences, yet i have to question you on the amount and quality of therapy you are receiving or have received.
I won't go into any clinical discussion here, but just want to leave this with you: the "therapy" you are possibly receiving... Is it helping or did it help? If it is/did, what was helpful? If it didn't / isn't, I would also like to know.
You might ask, Dori, why I would ask these questions?
Well, it was my field of expertise for some time, and I am curious, and definitely would want you to be experiencing/to have experienced some good work with your professional helper(s)...
Please get back to me?
Keith, thanks so much, taking your meds is very necessary but it took me along time to find a doctor who would prescribe just what I needed and not a bunch of crap I didnt need, you are right, excercise is great. It helps alot,
Lovely, if your son is thatbad that you feel that way then maybe he is not on the right meds or needs to be in a hospital to learn behavior modification. It is sad when it becomes a burden on the family, hang in there, there is hope, tell his doctor about the problems, no I don't think a person should put their life on hold or go crazy trying to help someone that can't be helped. He has to want to get better, without that he probably wont. Maybe he needs some extra care. Hope all goes well
hugs
dori
Collegegirl,
It is so great to have the family involved. It makes him feel more comfortable I am sure, it is a great way for everyone to understand him and what he is going thru, thanks for stopping by, come by again.
dori
Jlspartz, thanks, well as far as the spending, until she starts buying a new car on the way home from work like I once did, sounds like she just shops too much!!! Us women do that. As bad as it may sound, you will just have to set some limits before if cripples you financially. Then you will have more problems, it sounds like you are patient and that's good but limits are definately necessary.
dori
Daniel,
Thanks, it takes writing about it and talking about it. It is hard to talk to people face to face so this works for me, it can be controlled if they really want to. Having the correct Dr. is also important.
Thanks for stopping by,
dori
I dont mean to be negative, but I have a son who is Bi Polar and in reading your HUB, I'm not beginning to wonder if these people are really human. You can litterly loose your mind trying to deal with them. Do you think a person should loose their own health and sanity trying to help someone they cant possibly help?
I beleive I have an idea my ex boyfriend from like three years ago had this it was hard for us ... but we lasted long... I have a cousin who has this and we just do a lot of family get togethers so he wont feel overwhelemed or lonelly... really helps him. We do group family talk all of us like sharing relaly helps him. Reallly great post by the way something I cant totally understand since i was with my ex for like long time.
Oh yeah come follow me and my hubs and comment myhubs yeah..
ur very beautiful fortun. This helped me alot i'm dealing with depression, bipolar, stress and aniexy. I also tend to forget thing's it is very nasuating. I even think that i'm ok and stop taking my medication too it can be a very bad habit as well. You just got to push yourself excerise and stay healthy, busy busy busy. Train. believe in yourself. It's still hard for me at time's. "Pain is weakness leaving yourbody"
Nice hub. My wife is bipolar. I totally understand everything you stated. Her depressive moods only last a couple hours so I let her sleep and then she's fine, but the manic moods can last a week. I still don't know what to do about her spending. When I tell her not to spend she usually doesn't but she'll only last a week not spending on... well everything, LOL. Any suggestion there?
Pretty eyes by the way.
Very good hub, fortunerep. So much needs to be done to help bring more awareness to mental illness to help loved ones. Even more for those in the workplace. Thankfully we live in an age of more options, but still, there is no silver bullet for this stuff. You seem to have a very solid, good perspective about it. Looking forward to reading much more from you.
flightkeeper, I hope this meakes u understand it better
Pirate girl, always a pleasure to hear from you, thanks, your preety good person yourself!!
King, I am slightly confused by your comment, it sounds like a cry for help, if you need anything, email me please.
dori
Ann and Feline
Thanks for stopping by, It is a challenge, but that is what life is all about. It makes me stronger, if you are willing to learn from your mistakes.
dori
I have a better idea of what people with bipolar go through. Thank you.
i am trying to save my life and health
I've been coming across the term 'bipolar' more and more these past few weeks and I was just beginning to get curious about how people who are bipolar feel. Thanks for that very honest piece!
skye2day,
My heart goes out to you for the one you lost. I have tried many times to go without meds but easily learned my lesson. I have to have them, no matter how hard it is to accept. Thanks so much for your inspiration, it does not go unnoticed.
hugs
dori
Hi fortunerep, Love your widget, very nice eyes. I just happened' to land on your hub. Very well written. You do have a gift for writing. It is awesome how God says in his word he can turn ALL things for the good for those that love him. Your story can help many. Your writing gift is for a reason.
I never knew much about the illness. I know it is becoming a more ramped illness as time moves along. Around 25 to 30 years old are the more prevelent in bipolar. My nephew 25 years old took his life in July. He was diagnosed Bipolar in 2003. He never used meads. He and his father tried natural remedies. He seemed OK to me friendly, not up or down. NOw I see yes he was either very chatty or unusually quiet. He alwasy hugged and said I love you no matter his mood. I just realised this about Joseph. I know there was an anger issue. Your hub helped me understand the 'torment' he obviously went through. I never new until his passing but Joseph never tried medications. I have depression. It is controlled with prozac. I know how I felt prior to meds. I could not move, I was froze in a shell of time. It is a real intense illness. Bi bipolar is alot of the same but with a with a deeper intensity in the highs and lows. I am so grateful for my med prozac, Thank God. I felt like I could deal with life in a new light when I started on them. I could deal. I recall telling close friends I coud not move I was froze. They of no fault did not understand. I then felt 'crazy' as no on else could relate. I suffered so much. That is gone, past tense of many years. Since I do not release the chemical to fight depression just as a bi polar chemicals do ont work these are real illnesse's and not anything to mess with or try to fix by yourself. I tried a few times to go off meds, but to no avail in two weeks I was froze with many other symptoms. I have accepted meds. They were so expensive and many times I had no insurance but now they are dirt cheap. $4.00. Bipolar meds are not cheap but there are many resources to get them for no charge. If anyone has this contdition please help yourself. Please get help. Do not think you can fight this or that you have to live in the torments of the illness. . Do not be a Joseph. He is with the Lord he suffers no more. Others need you to share your story. Right now I am crying so hard because of the loss of Joseph. He had planned for 2 months. I think one of his his big worries was his fear of his own anger. Joseph it was not your fault.
My heart and prayer's goes to loved ones that deal with the bipolar. my prayers and love go to the bipolar.
I would try with all my heart to encourage the bipolar to take meds. Joseph (alias) name had excuses for not trying them. He had his dad convinced together they could study God's word and do the 'natural' route. What is a natural route? I do not know of one. God does do miracles, but we are not God. This is a very serious, deadly illness and left untreated can devastate families. My sister the step mother a master in Social Works tried but could not budge the dad or Joseph. I have a hard time understanding, but for the grace of God,Joseph very intelligent convinced his dad it was controlled. OMG I feel so much pain for my brother in law. I can not imagine his pain. It seems with time he is a bit better. I will just keep praying for Josephs family. I know what God says, he can heal, he provides miracles, he can turn all things for good, he will carry us when we can not walk, he will direct our steps if we let him.
I have a much deeper understanding of Joseph today because of your hub. You are touching many lives. Thank You for writing this. Thank God I landed here. I will pray for you and yours. I think you have much courage. You sound as if you have come far. You go girl. Keep on, as God has a wonderful plan for your life. I am a new fan. I will return.
Cheerio for 2day. Check my hubs when you get a spare minute or few. Love Ya.
Shame,
you are too funny!
dori
Never had to deal with any bipolar person before, but surely your hub explains it all!
Veronica, Aaliyah is doing fine, she goes back to school tomorrow, or daycare, we call it school. She goes for half a day until I am sure she is up to it. We wil see! Thaks!
dori
thank you so much for this information. I suspect (I won't mention names) that a very close friend of mine suffers from this condition. This information was very useful. By the way, how is your little one doing? I hope she's feeling all better now.
Thanks Dohn,
I think sometimes it is overlooked that it is a serious illness but you can beat it, if you want to. I know I have had experiences where i was misunederstood and it was blamed on bipolar, regardless I still have opinions, feelings and quite frankly very intelligent. Those who discard those who have a mental illness are cutting themself short, I could list hundreds of very successful people with this disorder, I just hope it helps folks understand. thanks again, you are a gem.
dori
Thank you so much, Dori, for helping me to understand those who are Bipolar. Understanding is surely the path to treatment. You provide a resource for those who are trying very hard to cope with this condition.
yes Brenda I do. Those are the fortunate times!! it usually runs in a 2 to 3 week cycle. now, i am neither, pretty stable.
hugs
dori
just a question my love..... do you have periods of time when you are neither high nor low.....
christine 2 weeks ago
so i don't know what's wrong with my mom, but after reading this i think she's bipolar. my whole life my family has hated being around my mom because she's a such a bitch to everyone and her logic doesn't make any sense in the slightest and she gets angry over the smallest things and then starts hitting us and pullig hair and calling us names and then the next day she is completely fine and tells us we should apologize for yelling so loudly at her the day before,as if she literally doesn't believe she did anything wrong. she does this to my dad too, and she's always threatening divorce but never actually does it. do you think this is bipolar or she's just literally insane? because i'm scared of going home when she's around...