Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

8,884 Members
129,554 Posts
1 Online
Mental Health
/ Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Introduction and validation

ChickenThighs
ChickenThighs

First , I'm new here, and y'all seem like a good group.  I'm a rapid cycling bipolar 2 patient.  I've been on meds for ten or so years, current meds are lithium, Wellbutrin, vraylar, and Xanax for sos days.



i need validation: the only person (besides my psychiatrist) I feel safe to talk to on bad days is my wife, and it's hard because she's not comfortable talking about it (aren't the meds supposed to take care of that sort of stuff). So I'm here, I'm having hypomanic episodes the last two days, the panic attack type feelings.  I feel overwhelmed and cloistered.  I also know a down is coming, and I down hard.  Any suggestions, tips, or anything else?  Thank y'all in advance.

jessekay
jessekay
Well I say just phone a friend or have a deep conversation with a loved one such as your wife breathe take a walk I have bipolar type 2 also and I have gone through Cycles in the last 20 years I have been fortunate to get back on track but I am on some of the same medications you are so I can relate I'm in a lot of ways for me it helps to get on a good resume just remember to tell yourself that you need the balance of taking your meds it took me a long time to realize that I was not going anywhere until I got to a good place and took my meds all the time my place now that's the best advice I have so far hope it was helpful in some ways have a good night
SensitiveHoboLady
SensitiveHoboLady
For me, it’s sleep hygiene. When I feel hypomania creeping in it is my cue to take the prn ambien I have on top of routine meds and get my sleep.

Welcome to the group.
Community LeaderSunCloudJD
SunCloudJD
Welcome to the board.... I love your name!!

This is a good place to come and talk about it... We have some great people onboard

Does the Xanax help your panic?... I would give you doctor a shout.... He/she may give you a med tweak??

Grounding techniques help with panic

The one I usually use is to describe my favourite room.... So describe your favourite room in detail.... fabrics, colours, art ornaments ect.... You have to talk this out loud... So if it's your bedroom... talk about the bed... is it comfy... What colours are on the walks and fabrics on furniture etc

It will calm you down within a few minutes

Colouring can also help with high anxiety .... Big hug.... xo

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/grounding-techniques
ChickenThighs
ChickenThighs
Thank y’all for the ideas and techniques and especially the compassion. I woke up this morning feeling just fine, it’s odd but y’all know how it is. Thanks again, and I hope to help you one day.
oldbutwise
oldbutwise
Hi and welcome to the group ChickenThighs. Yeah I know all too well how those ups and downs are. I'm a rapid cycler too. I'm glad you're doing well now.
Sunshinegirl0228
Sunshinegirl0228
Hi and welcome! Do you have a therapist? Perhaps a real life support group can help you feel less alone. I know they are hard to find in this time, maybe a zoom group?
Posts You May Be Interested In
  • Community LeaderSunCloudJD

    Hello Monday

    Posted by: SunCloudJD
    Last Reply: SunCloudJD
    4
    Hey All...I hope that you have a lovely, peaceful beginning of your weekI have a bunch of chores that need doing but may put them off til tomorrow and just hang out with my landlord/roomie todayWhat about you?...Anything special going on?Have a great day and take good care of you!!..Xo
  • Sunshinegirl0228

    Dr. Appointment

    Posted by: Sunshinegirl0228
    Last Reply: Sunshinegirl0228
    3
    Once again I've had a fever today. I'm not going to the hospital because that's a huge waste of time but I did schedule a dr appointment for Wednesday afternoon.