2008 June « Straight Talk on Managing Bipolar Disorder

NAMI Conference

I went to the National Alliance on Mental Illness this weekend. It was amazing for so many reasons. First of all, sitting around a table talking about meds, bipolar, schizo affective, OCD, depression and schizophrenia with people who actually have the illnesses was FANTASTIC!

I met new friends and also met a lot of people who had read my books. I will write more about all of the people I met. They have real and very inspiring stories. The workshops were informative! I learned a lot- some of it not too encouraging and some of it very encouraging.

Most of all, this trip was amazing because I was able to actually do it! Going to Florida by myself without getting too sick is a real accomplishment. I spoke to hundreds of people and sold my books. I was able to work and network and remain positive. I had quite a bit of paranoia at times, [ 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 ]

Julie Fast Radio Show Downloads

Click on the following links to download each Julie Fast Radio Show to your computer.

Gayathri Ramprasad on Depression and Her Life in India

Andy Behrman on Mania and Electroboy

Lani Button on Multiple Personality Disorder

Don Moore: Parent of a (Wonderful) Child with Schizophrenia

Dr. John Preston: Psychiatric Medications 101

Dr. Ajit Jetmalani: Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Disorders

Randi Kreger: Stop Walking on Eggshells– Borderline Personality Disorder

Listener Call In!

Terri Cheney, author of MANIC on Memoir Writing!

These shows are so fun and full of information. My cohost Avi and I talk about the topic of the week, make a few jokes and then talk with some very interesting people.

Please visit juliefast.com for upcoming shows. You can also add the show as a podcast to your Ipod by visiting the Itunes store and searching for ‘Julie Fast Radio.’s

[ Read More ]

Terri Cheney on the Julie Fast Radio Show

My guest on Sunday, June 8th will be Terri Cheney- the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir, Manic. I read this book in two days- I just couldn’t stop reading. Her style is eloquent and heartfelt. I can see why it’s a bestseller!

It was very hard for me to read about all that she’s gone through because of this terrible illness, but it’s hopeful to read that she made it through the hell caused by full blown mania. She’s an inspiration for all of us.

The show is not until Sunday afternoon, so you have time to read the book before listening!

For more info on the radio show- please click on the radio tab on the right hand menu.

Julie

Julie Fast Radio Questions

I had too many listener email to answer on the air last Sunday. I said that I would answer them on the blog. I will get to them soon! Promise!

Julie

If you’re not familiar with my radio show- please click on the radio tab to the left to get more information.

Listener Thank You

Thank you to everyone who called into my radio show yesterday. It was wonderful to hear the voices of people who read my books. Being a writer is often lonely work! Talking with people is great.

The call in show will be available on juliefast.com in the next few days.

I will answer the email I mentioned on the show today and tomorrow.

Julie