Bipolar, Travel, Stress…. OMG!

I have to admit I’m a bit stressed.

I go to Florida for a large convention this weekend to give my presentation: Loving Someone with a Mental Illness. I’m not worried about the presentation. There is nothing I love better than getting in front of family members and hearing their stories- we can definitely learn from each other. I remember what it was like to love someone who was in the psych ward for three months and then still sick off and for a year after that. I can pass on my tips for dealing with the fear.

My stress is from getting ready for the travel. The airline that is too busy to even answer my calls- “We are experienceing a high call volume- you will have to call back later.” The CD’s of my radio show I need to take with me have to get labels on them.”

On and [ Read More ]





Bipolar Depression: How Can I Make Today Better?

That is the question.  I’m going to the NAMI (National Conference on Mental Illness) convention this weekend. Considering that I’m not doing too well (euphemism), I have to be very careful how I spend the next few days. I realize that what I do today, will determine how well I am for the trip.

I’m going to pack early (for once!). I’m getting to sleep super early so that I won’t have jet lag. I’m thinking ahead for the books, postcards, business cards, etc that I will need.  Doing this ahead of time is essential- even though I feel overwhelmed.

I’m having mood swings (mostly down). I will remind myself that this is an illness. I have mood swings because I have bipolar disorder.

Taking care of myself is what matters. It often means less success in terms of finances (does this happen to you?), but at least I function on a high level even [ Read More ]