The Most Problematic Issue with Bipolar Disorder: Normalcy

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By Gabe Howard

Last Updated: 2 Sep 2021

The most perplexing and problematic aspect of bipolar—in my opinion—is its intermittent invisibility. From the outside, we often seem so “normal,” nobody realizes we’re sick.

Misunderstanding the Bipolar Spectrum, Cycles, and Core Problem

The official definition for bipolar disorder—a psychiatric illness characterized by both manic and depressive episodes—is, in my opinion, misleading. The general public understands the two main symptoms stated in the definition but is mostly unaware that bipolar exists on a spectrum. Simply stated, an individual with bipolar disorder isn’t just either depressed or manic but experiences all the moods in between the two extremes.

In addition to having the normal emotional range that every human has, we also have all the moods created by cycling back and forth. In all honesty, I have no idea what to call the five-minute period in which I go from incredibly happy to unreasonably irritated to melancholic, and then end up crying.

However, even that emotional mess isn’t the most problematic issue in living with bipolar disorder. The single biggest issue that I see is when everything is just fine. In other words, the biggest issue is being entirely symptom-free.

The Problem of Seeming “Normal” with Bipolar

First, “normal” is an annoying concept. For example, in America, it’s normal, acceptable, even encouraged to bring dying trees into our homes every December. For the purpose of this article, we have to consider that, whether or not we embrace the concept of “normal,” society has behaviors that it collectively views as normal and abnormal.

When a person with bipolar disorder is manic, society recognizes this behavior as extreme. The same holds true with suicida1 depression. Even the lesser-known symptoms of irritability and grandiosity are widely recognized by the general public as abnormal.

As a person living with bipolar moods that travel back and forth along the spectrum, I can say there is a distinct period of time when I am “normal.” I’m in control of my emotions, symptom-free, and able to fully use all of my mental faculties.

It’s during this period that a person with bipolar will complete projects, solidify relationships, and accomplish the typical things that society expects.

But there is a dark side to everything being “just fine” and having no “abnormal” issues to speak of: The people around us think the more extreme symptoms of bipolar disorder are simply bad behavior that we can consciously control. After all, they know we can control ourselves if we wanted to. They have seen us do it on multiple occasions.

Bearing the Burden of Society’s Misconception of Bipolar

If, like me, you’re living with bipolar disorder, it’s well understood that society’s misconceptions become our problem.

When I had my first long depression spell as a teenager, my father pulled me out of bed and ordered me to go to school. When I explained that I was sick, he told me that “being sick of school” was not a real illness. He told me I was too smart and capable to refuse to get an education.

In his defense, why wouldn’t he think that? He personally witnessed me excel in academics. He knew I was intelligent, so this behavior had to be laziness. In his mind, there was simply no other explanation.

Disbelief, Denial, and Misplaced Blame

I liken the symptoms of bipolar disorder to an intermittent car issue. Have you ever taken your car to the mechanic because of a problem you have observed, but then the problem you’re having can’t be replicated for the mechanic to witness and repair? It’s frustrating beyond words—but at least the mechanic believes that there is a problem.

Imagine if, instead of working with you to fix your car, the mechanic just looked at you and said, “Hey, I saw you drive it in, so there obviously isn’t an issue.”

Perhaps a more analogous example is if you were to say that the car wasn’t running at all, and then the mechanic said, “I saw this car running yesterday, so I know you can start it if you wanted to.”

The Most Challenging Feature of Bipolar Disorder

There are many things that make life hard for someone who lives with bipolar disorder, but the biggest issue I’ve ever faced is that people remember me when I’m at my best when they see me at my worst. Since they don’t believe I’m sick, they tell me to snap out of it and make better decisions.

If I were always sick, the people around me would have a better chance of realizing it. But because they didn’t realize I needed help, they didn’t offer any. Instead, they focused on what I could be instead of what I was.

And I can’t blame them, because I did the same thing.

I believe the most problematic issue with this illness is that no one realizes you’re sick. Because, just like the car at the mechanic, bipolar disorder’s symptoms are intermittent.

Originally posted January 3, 2017

6 Ways to Care for Your Bipolar’s Ever-Changing Moods

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By Brooke Baron

Last Updated: 31 May 2020

 

Managing my mood disorder is a lot like caring for the planet—here are my best “climate control” practices for stabilizing energy and well-being.

Almost everyone is engaged in some form of caring for our planet these days: recycling, biking to work, and/or conserving resources are common efforts. Just like many of us do our part to care for the earth, many of us do our part to manage our bipolar—and, as it turns out, there’s a lot of overlap between the two.

So, what can we learn about bipolar from the climate? Well, both are ultimately under nature’s control; both are processes we can help or hurt; and, in both cases, we need to be ready for anything. I like how André 3000 put it: “You can plan a pretty picnic, but you can’t predict the weather.”

Here are a few environment-care practices I’ve translated into bipolar self-care practices:

#1 Use renewable energy

= We find healthy ways to re-energize.

Exercise, talk therapy, meditation, adequate sleep, and support teams are common sources of positive energy. Renewal can even come from something as simple as a quiet cup of coffee with the morning paper, a smile from a stranger, or a favorite song playing on the radio. Know which activities and interactions replenish your soul and seek those out whenever possible.

#2 Avoid combustible energy

= We stay away from toxic approaches to managing moods, feelings, and thoughts.

Recognize that there are some ways of coping that are destructive and unhealthy—like substance abuse, overspending, or aggression. Nothing good comes from these things, and they can accumulate in the soul, polluting it for ages.

#3 Observe emissions standards

= We follow doctors’ recommendations on pharmaceuticals.

One of the most effective approaches to reducing atmospheric pollution is when governing bodies set emissions standards to which companies and/or individuals must adhere. Similarly, when our experts (our doctors) recommend medication for bipolar disorder—we are best served by respecting that directive.

#4 Reduce waste

= Cut back our schedules and responsibilities in order to gain better flexibility for managing bipolar.

Not everyone is cut out for a 9-5 gig with a company or an overflowing social calendar. When moods are cycling, it can be hard to find and use our good judgment. Remember not to take on more than will be manageable later.

#5 Recycle

= We turn destructive (hypo)manic energy into something positive.

Acknowledging a surplus of energy is the first step; finding a way to redirect it into safe and productive behavior is the key. Chores around the house, self-care activities, and small arts or crafts projects are perfect for burning off a bit of frivolous brain and/or body energy.

#6 Compost

= We recognize nature’s process of breakdown and revival.

Compost for a garden is made with scraps of old food and other organic matter. Nature does its thing, and the result is nutrient-rich soil—perfect for growing plants. Likewise, we may sometimes feel depressed, but it’s important to remember our bipolar nature. It will do its thing, and we will see light at the end of the tunnel. (Even if we have to pass a few worms on the way.)

On reducing our bipolar footprint—

There ARE things we can do to counteract the unpleasant—and sometimes harmful—side effects of the disorder. Even if it’s simply recognizing that some of our most extreme feelings and thoughts may actually be symptoms of a biochemical neurological process. So, let’s wipe the footprint off our backs—we might not have total control over our brain chemistry, but we don’t have to let it stomp all over us. Knowledge is power!

Soundtrack*

It’s Not Easy Being Green by Kermit the Frog
Heal the World by Michael Jackson
Ms. Jackson by OutKast
War by Edwin Starr
Bicycle Race by Queen
9-5 by Dolly Parton
Under Pressure, isolated vocals by Freddie and Bowie

*Ever get a song stuck in your head? Well, I often get bombarded with them when I’m writing—so, these are my musical muses for the post.

Brooke Baron

Brooke Baron has a BA in English, a minor in philosophy, and a lifelong obsession with language. Although born and raised in Alabama, she has been a proud California resident for 10+ years. During a professional stint in Silicon Valley—in both the corporate and private business sectors—she handled internal and external communications, office design and construction, photography and graphic design, executive assistance, and functioning on very little sleep. Brooke now specializes in "New Human Orientation" from her home in the suburbs. She has a young, loving, growing family of five and is fueled by that love and coffee. In addition to caring for the rest of Team Baron, she enjoys writing, reading, researching miscellaneous topics, and funneling manic energy into creative projects. With so many balls in the air—including bipolar II disorder—balancing her life is like balancing two kangaroos on a see-saw. She offers consulting services for the bipolar community at Better Bipolar Balance.

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The 'Cycle of Social Withdrawal' People With Mental Illness Might Relate To

Christa Marie 

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June 19, 2020

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If you or a loved one live with mental illness, you’re likely no stranger to the isolation that can often come along with it. The Depression Project, an organization founded by two brothers with hopes to support individuals with depression, posted a graphic on Instagram to explain the cycle of social withdrawal that many individuals who struggle with their mental health experience.

As someone with mental illness myself, I found the graphic incredibly relatable. The cycle begins with a “strong desire to see friends/family,” something we can all likely relate to. For some individuals with mental illness, however, that feeling of wanting social interaction can actually make us feel overwhelmed. The graphic gives examples of thoughts we might have such as, “I’ll have to fake a smile,” or, “What if I’m a burden?”

From there, the cycle moves into a decision to stay home, which then progresses into feelings of loneliness and isolation, circling back to that initial strong desire to see friends and family.

You see, as someone with mental illness, social interaction isn’t as simple as just going out and spending time with others. There’s often a strong sense of pressure to act like everything is OK, even when someone is really struggling. It takes a lot of energy to maintain that fake smile discussed in the graphic, and sometimes it all just feels like too much. Even when someone with mental illness does expend that energy to go out and socialize, it’s often an extremely draining experience. This doesn’t mean we don’t want to spend time with the people we love, but it often takes more energy to engage with others than we have to spare.

In my own life, this often looks like deciding to just go home after work when I really would love to see my friends. As much as I want to spend time with my friends, I’m already worn out from a long day at work and I don’t have the energy to do anything other than go home, even though going home then makes me feel more isolated, often worsening my depression. The reality is that even though being home at worse makes me feel more isolated and lonely, it still doesn’t take the energy that it would take me to spend time with friends and maintain a happy facade the entire time.

The good news is that if you have a loved one struggling with mental illness, there are some things you can do to help. Firstly, learn how this cycle works so you can conceptualize what your loved one is experiencing. Remember that it isn’t an indicator that they don’t want to spend time with you, but instead an indicator that they are struggling with their mental health right now. Reassure your friend or family member that it’s OK if they’re real with you, that they aren’t a burden and you won’t be upset with them if they’re having a bad day. Let them know that it’s OK if they don’t feel up to spending time together or if they need to cut it short, but continue to include them as much as possible. We may not feel up to social interaction, but knowing others want to include us is still usually better than not being invited out at all.

For individuals who resonate with this cycle personally, it’s important to understand it as well. Knowing what is happening within our own minds can often help prevent things from spiraling out of control, and I know I personally always feel better when I can identify that my mental illness is causing what I’m experiencing. If you want to, you can even show this graphic to loved ones to help them understand your experience. Remember that it’s OK to admit you’re struggling; true friends will want to support you as best they can.

We want to hear your story.

Do you want to share your story? Click here to find out how.

IMAGE VIA THE DEPRESSION PROJECT

 

Christa Marie 

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This writer is a fighter.

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Newly Diagnosed With Bipolar Disorder? Here’s My Advice…

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Author: Jessica Kaushik

I was diagnosed in 2004 and have been largely living hospital-free for the last thirteen years. So, I do have a few coping strategies for living with Bipolar Disorder that I’d like to share with the newly diagnosed.

…I wouldn’t say the list is comprehensive, but it is kinda long. When one thing doesn’t seem to work, I have other strategies to fall back on. The following allows me to take charge of my illness – in control, I don’t think we ever are but that’s a personal philosophy on life. First & foremost I share that Bipolar Disorder is ongoing & for life – managing one’s mental health is not achieved with one strategy alone; they work together – collectively in my humble opinion.

I take my medicine at the same time every day. This I, personally, think is the most important for me. As I believe, taking meds to begin with is most necessary to maintaining balance but at the same time everyday allows the chemicals in my brain some consistency.

I go to bed at the same time, almost every day – often sleeping 8+ hours.

I practice Yoga.

I meditate. Not every day & not always traditionally on a cushion – sometimes I just turn the radio off while driving in my car, but I return to silence/stillness again & again.

I keep my house neat and tidy. Our environment is huge. Yours does not have to be beautiful but relatively clean & organized makes all things domestic so much easier. Sure, my dishes pile up on occasion & I have to make room for the other people that I choose to live with.

I manage & monitor my alcohol consumption. Some days it’s hard. I need a social life & many a party revolve around drinking but to mitigate that – if one day I drink 2 or 3 glasses of alcohol, at a ‘party’ for example, then I might not drink again for 3 or 4 days. OR on the contrary – sometimes – when the mood/craving strikes and life is particularly stressful, I might drink a glass of something a day for a handful of days, but I cut myself off most days at one – if I am seeing a pattern.

I stay connected with my friends. Forget the news and or the latest sitcom – I really can’t entertain that stuff much, it’ll make me go all mental but social media and regular chats with my besties I do.

I write. I write a blog. I’ve written a Screenplay that I might be turning into a book. I journal. I write letters to people, often letters that never get sent!

I listen to uplifting music.

I talk to a professional, on occasion. In the beginning, I needed help making sense of my thoughts and emotions but today, after many years, I have gratefully landed with one woman that I respect & trust a great deal and now I just see her when there’s something significant to discuss. The key here is to find, and I admit it can be a search, someone you respect & trust.

I keep communication open with my support network. By now we know my triggers and when I/we suspect mania especially is on the rise – we alert one another to it.

I have a gratitude practice. Sometimes that’s demonstrative & physically in the form of a gratitude jar. Other times it’s just when I put my son to bed & we recall our blessings.

I eat healthy.

I put the phone down and try to connect with those around me, especially when life gets hairy.

About Jessica

Jessica Kaushik was diagnosed Bipolar 1 after her first psychotic break, after suffering from severe depression, in her early thirties! Like many, Jessica owes her stability today to her closest family & friends and a few key doctors that have helped her see her true self along the way. She views her disease as a God given gift and wouldn’t give it away if she could! In her newly coined blog, Being Bipolar is EASY & the Art of Slowing it Down, she writes about how she finds stability time and time again. Jessica dreams of telling her story, on the BIG screen, and as such is currently dusting off the first draft of her Screenplay that she shelved many moons ago from her home in Las Vegas where she lives with her relentlessly supportive husband and little boy wonder.

Improving Your Mitochondria Function to Reduce Cancer Risk

Website content extracted from: https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/mitochondria-function-reduce-cancer-risk/

By Dr. David Jockers DC, MS, CSCS
February 26, 2016
14,391 Facebook Shares

Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouse for their role in generating the energy supply for cells. However they have lacked the spotlight for their important role in a variety of other biological functions. Researchers at the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation have learned that only 3% of the genetic material contained in a single mitochondrion is designed to produce cellular energy. So what are the primary responsibilities of mitochondria and how do they promote health?

What Are Mitochondria?

Mitochondria are organelles found in every cell within the body except for red blood cells. Mitochondria are unique because they contain their own copy of DNA. The 3% of DNA responsible for producing cellular energy generates 90% of a cell’s energy in the form of ATP or adenosine triphosphate. Perhaps more importantly, mitochondria have critical roles in regulating major metabolic pathways in the body.

Genetic factors and environmental stimuli impact how mitochondria are differentiated for use within an organism. For example, mitochondrion in various parts of the body have unique functions. They are concentrated in different numbers such as breaking down ammonia in the liver or appearing in high concentrations of the breast muscle of flying pigeons.

Mitochondria Sustain Life’s Functions

Mitochondria are not only energy generators but are key organelles in supporting everyday metabolic processes such as:

• Maintaining lipid levels
• Provide the energy needed for blood circulation
• Buffers ion concentrations required for physiological communication
• Supporting glucose and insulin transportation
• Removing health hazards including damaged cells which can wreak destruction on health

The destruction or weakening of mitochondria can lead to severe health complications including multiple sclerosis, autism, bipolar disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Mitochondria Dysfunction Associated with Cancer

Specific sites within mitochondria undergo a high rate of respiration when producing energy. Where change is taking place, cancer risks increase. High rates of respiration are associated with the generation of free radicals which are within close proximity to damaging the mitochondria’s own DNA. Incidences of lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma and breast cancer increase as a result of mutations occurring within mitochondrial DNA.

As a result of excessive free radical production, mitochondria create oxidative stress which inhibits antioxidants from defending the body from cancer. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are a potent type of free radical which can deplete vitamin C levels and stimulate systemic inflammation. As inflammation in the body increases, the central nervous system has been shown to leak signals to the brain and gastrointestinal tract. This results in an autoimmune response from the body. Available antioxidant sources become depleted as the immune system attempts to defend the body from an unknown threat.

Individuals with mitochondrial dysfunction have been found to have low levels of antioxidant support including carnitine, glutathione, and thioredoxin. Cancer is characterized by numerous factors which lead to depression, a weakened immune system, and chronic oxidative stress. Mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with promoting every one of these factors.

Strengthen Your Mitochondrial Function

Many strategies can help improve the function of mitochondria and reduce your risk of developing cancer. Start making healthy lifestyle habits part of your regimen today. Your first step can be to make sure you receive adequate amounts of exercise every day which improves circulation and increase mitochondrial activity.

Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting has been shown to remove damaged mitochondria from the body through a process known as mitophagy. This process allows mitochondria to remove waste, free radicals and unfolded proteins which weaken immunity and promote cancerous conditions.

Ketogenic Diet

A diet rich in healthy fats and low in carbohydrates is an excellent way to circumvent mitochondria in order to produce energy. A ketogenic diet has been shown to improve the health of individuals experiencing epilepsy and muscle weakness.
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A Nutritious Diet Supports Mitochondrial Function

Key proteins, enzymes, and vitamins are critical for the health of mitochondria and reducing your risk of cancer. The supplementation of the following nutrients has been shown to promote mitochondria function:

• Acetyl-Carnitine: Found in red meat, this amino acid is responsible for the transportation of compounds in the body and has also been shown to increase glutathione production.
• B Vitamins: Both biotin and vitamin B-12 have been shown to improve mitochondria function. These vitamins are designed with unique purposes to promote glutathione synthesis as well as other antioxidants.
• Alpha-Lipoic Acid: (ALA) Alpha-lipoic acid improves mitochondria function within the brain and stimulates an individual’s cognitive abilities.
• Coenzyme Q10: Also known as CoQ, this potent antioxidant is a critical component to the electron transport chain in mitochondria which generates energy. Antioxidant deficiency, specifically a deficiency of CoQ can prevent the mitochondria from producing ATP. CoQ supplementation has been clinically shown to improve adverse health symptoms.

Avoid Environmental Toxins

Exposure to environmental toxins increases the risk of mitochondria dysfunction, severe health illnesses, and cancer. Environmental toxins such as heavy metals from pesticides and carcinogens in smoke contribute to chronic oxidative stress. Avoid exposure to environmental toxins by controlling what you can and choosing to eat healthy foods, practicing detoxification techniques, and practicing stress-reduction exercises.

Mitochondrial Biogenesis

Researchers are beginning to understand how important the formation of new mitochondria is in a process known as mitochondrial biogenesis. Key factors which affect the ability for mitochondria to grow and divide healthily includes exercise, limiting oxidative stress, temperature, and caloric restriction.

More results from human clinical trials remain a necessity to fully identify the therapeutic strategy for mitochondrial biogenesis to improve the severity of disorders and cancers associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Reduce your risk of cancer and participate in your own technique of forming new mitochondria.

Make the choice every day to limit your exposure to environmental contaminants; exercise, and reduce oxidative stress in your body by eating a nutrient dense diet.

Did you know cancer has natural predators?

Go here to discover how experts are eliminating cancer!

Article Summary

• Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouse for their role in generating the energy supply for cells. They are also key organelles in supporting everyday metabolic processes.
• The destruction or weakening of mitochondria can lead to severe health complications including multiple sclerosis, autism, bipolar disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
• Many strategies can help improve the function of mitochondria and reduce your risk of developing cancer. These include exercise, intermittent fasting, and a ketogenic diet.
• Supplementing the following nutrients has been shown to promote mitochondria function:
  • Acetyl-Carnitine
  • B Vitamins
  • Alpha-Lipoic Acid
  • Coenzyme Q10
• Support healthy mitochondria function by making the choice every day to limit your exposure to environmental contaminants; exercise, and reduce oxidative stress in your body by eating a nutrient dense diet.