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Finding Balance Beyond Mania
Mania can be alluring with its energy and excitement, especially after emerging from depression. But while it may seem tempting, chasing these highs often leads to inevitable crashes. Striving for stability might not feel as thrilling, but it helps avoid…
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Depression’s Hidden Impact on Relationships
Depression isn’t just about sadness; it can also bring out irritation, a lack of love, and restlessness. For me, these symptoms shaped my relationships without me even realizing it. When I was depressed, I’d snap at people, lose interest in…
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The Challenge of Taking Medication When You Feel Fine
It’s tough to stick to a medication routine when you feel good. In moments of euphoria, the sense of being in control makes you question whether you really need the treatment. However, knowing it’s essential for maintaining balance is what…
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Loneliness
Loneliness is a constant presence in the lives of many people with bipolar disorder. Sometimes it comes as a direct consequence of our actions, impulsive decisions made during manic episodes that end up pushing others away. Then comes the shame,…
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The Silent Struggles of Stability
Stability is a fragile thing. It’s a time to rebuild, regain control, and feel a sense of normalcy, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Memories of impulsive decisions made during mania resurface, along with the lingering fatigue…
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The Day-to-Day Life of a Bipolar Person
Life for someone with bipolar disorder depends entirely on the episode they’re in. During depression, everything grinds to a halt. The world loses its color. Emotions vanish. Your bed feels like a cage. If you’re on quetiapine, the constant brain…
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My First Taste of Nirvana
The first time I felt at peace with myself was in the summer of 1987. Many memories have faded over time, but this one remains vivid. I was 15, and for the first time, alcohol coursed through my veins. From…