Growing Older with Bipolar Disorder. Hmmm.
I started writing on this topic ten years ago. I’m now 52 and believe me, learning to age gracefully as a woman who has bipolar disorder is a challenge. I will meet this challenge, but it’s taking a lot of fortitude. My pictures on my websites have to be changed. I no longer look like I did 10 years ago. That is life. I want to embrace life instead of fighting to look like I’m 30 again. Bipolar disorder has been with me since age 17. That‘s my age in the picture below. I was diagnosed at 31. No one teaches us how to age with this illness, so I take on the challenge to do it myself and help others of my age do it as well. I remember being a teen with this illness. I remember being in my 30s and 40s. It was different. Now at 52 I can still empathize with all people who have bipolar disorder, but my needs are changing and my management plan has to change with them. Welcome to reality!
I wish I had been diagnosed earlier. I encourage teens with a bipolar disorder diagnosis to see it as freedom. The diagnosis absolutely ensures a better future. I lived through my young life having little control over my behavior. I prefer life with the diagnosis.
Here’s to aging gracefully!
Julie
Julie I have heard that sometimes bipolar symptoms subside as a person ages. Is there any evidence to support this?
Thank you
Susan (59)
No. It’s individual. My bipolar is still around- the same as always. But… here is something incredibly positive. Our management skills can get exponentially better. My bipolar may be the same, but my management is superior to what it once was. This means I am so much better- so much more stable- and much, much happier. We can manage this illness. Julie
PS: There is evidence that borderline personality disorder calms down with age.
Julie,
I love reading these posts. I have a stepdaughter who suffers fromBP. Do you have any experience with ECT? What are long term side affects? Do ongoing muscle spasms a month post ECT sound familiar?
I appreciate your experience and insights,!
As for aginG- it’s a challenge to age gracefully regardless, and I appreciate how much more difficult it must be what th BP
THANKS
I should add that I have BP disorder. Both my uncles had it and we’re incredibly bright and creative. I’m in my 60s and I’m very compliant with my meds now, more so than when I was younger.