News and Media

I would like to say how happy I am to be blogging at the International Bipolar Foundation! Happy is a very interesting word because it indicates that you're in a good place...The International Bipolar Foundation IS such A GOOD place. Especially if you deal with what else, Bipolar Disorder!

I am one of those people who feels the need to make a difference. I hate to stand by and see others suffer. So it's no surprise that I tend to be drawn to the kind of jobs known as "the helping professions." Over the last 15 years, as well as bringing up two children, I’ve worked in a variety of helping roles. I’ve volunteered at my local Women’s Centre, supporting victims of domestic violence.

 In the words of Sheryl Crow, I can’t cry anymore.

At least, not for now. Please. I’m exhausted. Crying is draining, although it feels strangely good at the same time. Some of it has to do with “being a girl,” but more of it has to do with other stuff – medication stuff – which I hope gets resolved quickly, as I went to the doctor today and left equipped with a new game plan.

 Patience and Friendship

Patience means...

Not the ability to wait but the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting

I read this recently...and here are some thoughts I have on what I am waiting for...

I read this recently...and here are some thoughts I have on what I am waiting for...

 Bipolar Disorder and Dreaming

Everyone dreams right? We all have wishes of what could be or what we’d like or even whom. However, dreaming when we should be sleeping is something different. And for those of us with Bipolar Disorder, dreaming can become a minefield we maneuver in our sleeping hours.

 Self-perpetuated Disappointment and the Queen of its Kingdom … Me!

 Super Structure

A few nights ago my wife and I were talking, as we have a want to do. It’s very rare that we will sit and watch TV together; we prefer to talk... and laugh. Anyway, as part of this conversation my wife asked, ‘Do you know what you bring to my life?’
‘Trouble’ I answered, half-jokingly.
‘No’ she smiled, ‘you bring spice.’
‘Oh, okay. I think that’s good. Do you know what you bring to my life?’

 Let's Talk About Meds

DISCLAIMOR: The very nature of medication is controversial. I am not a doctor. I do not have MD after my name. I am merely a woman living with Bipolar 1 Disorder. This is my experience with medication. These are my truths. In no way, shape or form will I ever give medical advice to anyone. Puh-lease.

 I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder roughly twelve year years ago. I wasn't remotely surprised when the kindly psychiatrist told me, as I already had a good grasp of psychiatry and I had had a good idea of what was wrong with me since adolescence, I say ‘wrong’ in the lightest of terms of course.

Though, though I may have had an idea that I had Bipolar Disorder, knowing what is wrong with oneself and actually living with an illness, disorder, are two very different things.