sorry to hear that ruby. Meds, sleep and staying home are the things that work for me. I hope you find what you are looking for. Its hard to accept we need meds, but most of our lives are better on meds than off them.

I never would have got control of mania without meds. I was hospitalized 6 times in 3 years while using anti-psychotics and it was only after starting lithium that I got control. I don't understand why people don't want to be "reaching for meds" since they work.

Sleep is so elusive. I'm so tired right now but can't sleep. Staying indoors with minimal human interaction is keeping me intact right now.

The thing is Tommy I don't have much prn. Believe me if I did, I'd be reaching for it more often. Its when I have to go back into the world I worry.

I will take xanax if the mania is getting bad. I can't stand it and it leads my mind to negative thoughts. At least it provides relief for awhile. I stay at home or get home when it's bad. It's ok to take care and nurture yourself. Peace to you.

Ruby,

So if talking to your mom is a trigger, then don't talk to her. My mom used to be a major trigger, I'd go months without talking to her if I was not on the Stable side. I moved 1300 miles away from my whole family for a very good reason, all those crazy white trash rednecks were major triggers, and I had no trouble not talking to any of them.

My Mental Health and the ability to take care of me and my children comes way before their desire to gossip and visit. I have no problem putting me and my mental health first.

If your mom has trouble understanding why you can't talk to her as much, writer her a letter, with an explanation that when you're having trouble stabilizing your BiPolar then you can't always be available to talk every day or week. If she worries, then maybe make an agreement to send a text once a week letting her know your okay, without the expectation of back and forth chatting.

You are your most important priority, its very okay to put you and your mental health first, so you stay healthy and safe.

Take care girl,
Kat

ruby, I know the feeling of frail and delicate. I'm sorry you've been through such an ordeal lately. Calm, mindful thinking and breathing mindfully. Those are what work for me when I'm a mess. Is there a therapist visit on the horizon? Big hugs to you --- sk

My brother called Kat. I told him she is triggering me. He said he will call her and tell her I can't speak to her tonight. He knows she has no idea. He's gonna phone tomorrow. I think I'll ask him to tell her I can't talk as often.

I don't have a direct number for my therapist. All I can do is leave a VM tomorrow. She won't see me if I'm *unstable*. I need a new one I think. I just don't have it in me to try to look for another one. And I really need one right now.

Ruby is there any Crisis Intervention possible? Crisis team etc?

Is the a NAMI facility in your area? They also phone number you can call and talk to someone. They have some great classes I attend sometimes that help if my anxiety is low. I have moderate to severe agoraphobia, so it does take a lot of discipline to get out. I use meditation and relaxing breathing exercises to help calm me down. Music is also a great outlet to calm myself. I wish the best for you.

I'm under the care of the crisis team May, they are monitoring me daily. They've been this morning. They've just referred me for 6 weeks post hospital support with Mind, which is a mental health charity. I'm withdrawn tho, so not sure I can engage. Hope I get a good worker.

Thanks HopeRising, I'm in the UK so no NAMI. But hopefully Mind will help.

Gentle hug sweetie..... I'm glad that you're getting a lot of support..... xo

Thank you Jan. Hopefully there will be a proper full change around x