Uncategorized « Straight Talk on Managing Bipolar Disorder

Accepting New Family and Partner Coaching Clients

Writing books on bipolar disorder has been my career for over ten years. I enjoy writing and plan to do a lot more. (It can be a challenge when the mood swings are paying a visit, that’s for sure.)

Over four years ago, I started coaching partners and family members of people with bipolar disorder as an addition to my writing career.

I never, ever thought I would find work that I enjoy as much as I enjoy coaching. I feel at home with the parents and partners as I have been where they are- and I remain calm during the crises that many of my clients are going through while we are working together. Bipolar disorder is like a puzzle. It’s not always easy to find the right pieces on your own. [ Read More ]

Impromptu Friday Night Book Contest!

You Can Win a Book Tonight!

I just received this comment from Bonnie. She read the blog on Travel and Medications and wrote a long comment. When she posted the comment it disappeared!

Julie, Wow that was unusual. I just wrote an very long comment but after I clicked submit my comment didn’t appear. Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Anyhow, just wanted to say fantastic blog!

This inspired me to have a contest. I’m not at my best tonight- anxiety, etc- so offering some happiness to others is a good move!

My reply- and info on the contest:

HI Bonnie,

That is beyond frustrating. As a thank you for leaving a comment anyway, I would like to send you a book or spend some time with you on the phone to answer any questions you have. Just [ Read More ]

What are the signs of bipolar disorder mania?

Yes, it’s soon to be summer and it’s mania season once again.

Summer mania is dangerous- it’s often missed- and lives can be changed forever if a person’s mania spirals out of control. I look at the dog in the picture and know that rush of speed and the wind in my hair! (Or fur!) That is mania for so many of us.

One strategy to prevent this mania is to know the signs of hypomania and start treatment at this level. Hypomania is subtle. It’s April. It’s a good time to have a plan ready for when the sun gets high in the sky.

Those of us with bipolar will NEVER want to tell someone we are hypomanic- we know they will do something to make us get help.

Who wants help when it feels so good? Come on man! [ Read More ]

Para la Prevencion de Suicidio

Tiene dificultades para lidiar con sus problemas?

Red Nacional Para la Prevencion de Suicidio

1-888-628-9454

www.SuicidePreventionLifeLine.org

Con la ayuda, llega la esperanza

Julie

Bipolar disorder doesn’t care what language you speak- but it helps to talk with someone who can really understand you when you speak! Julie

Thanks for your 200+ questions!

I recently asked the mailing list for questions they would like my mom to answer on my blog and Facebook page.

I received 200+ questions in less than 24 hours.

I’m not kidding. Wow.

There are many parents of children with bipolar disorder who need help and advice. I will go through all of the questions and answer them all!

julie

Bipolar Disorder: Tip for Family Members

1. Read, read, read: Knowledge about bipolar disorder is your number one tool.

Read the DSM-V- the diagnostic statistical manual and learn about bipolar disorder from a medical point of view. The entry on bipolar disorder is only about ten pages- but you can learn so much! All libraries have this book in their reference department. While you’re there, read about psychotic disorders as well. And if you’re really interested, read about personality disorders and anxiety disorders. People with bipolar disorder share symptoms with all of these disorders which is why it’s such a tough illness to treat. And of course, my books are a great read as well!

Julie