Straight Talk on Managing Bipolar Disorder

Abilfy and Lamictal Side Effect: Akathisia

I’ve been on both Abilify and Lamictal. Abilify if an antipsychotic used to treat psychotic bipolar symptoms as well as mania. Lamictal is a ‘mood stabilizer’ that’s actually an anticonvulsant drug used to treat bipolar depression. It’s not a drug used to manage mania. But, it does help people with rapid cycling.

Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic along with Risperdal, Seroquel and Zyprexa. Atypical means the drugs are newer and have less side effects than the older ‘dirty’ drugs such as Thorazine and and Haldol.

I’m having some tough side effects with my Lamictal tonight and they remind me of what my friend Sherri went through when she was on Abilify.

We both had restlessness, leg pain, an uncomfortable body and trouble sleeping. This is called Akathisia. Technically it’s an inability to sit down. Abilify is known to have this as a side effect, whereas my Lamictal problems tend to be from not having enough meds in my system. It’s all complicated and interrelated.

Abilify has been a miracle drug for many people. Lamictal has been a miracle for me- but akathisia is a tough side effect.

I am such a fan of drugs, but I also know that we have a limit in terms of the side effect tolerance. I can handle my Lamictal side effects, Sherri ended the Abilify and went back on Zyprexa. Meds are completely individual. So, if you’re having trouble with one drug, there is a good chance you will find one that works. Never give up!

Julie

Bipolar hypomania: It’s 11:45 Pm and I’m ready for bed, but let’s go party!

Mania is a strange thing. It completely takes away reasoning if you let it. Last night, I went into a mild upswing around 10PM, but I was able to keep it in check. I knew it was there as it’s been happening all week. While I was in bed reading and writing in my journal, I suddenly had the strong urge to go to karaoke and drink! It just felt like such a good idea. It was fleeting, and of course I didn’t act on it, but god almighty, that is ridiculous. Especially considering that I have cut my social activities in half in order to stay stable enough to work.

I stayed in bed and managed to sleep with the help of Ativan and a little extra Lamictal. But it worries me.

julie

Throw out your junky clothes Julie!

I dress like a bum if I’m depressed- especially if I’ve gained weight. One day, my dear friend Janea said something I’ve never forgotten.

Julie, the is no reason a person can’t look great every single time they walk out the door.

She is right. I feel better if I look good.

So I threw out all of my junk clothes. Actually, I cut a lot of them up so my brother could use them as paint rags. Yes, they were that bad!

I now only have presentable clothes in my closet. And I always look good. Anyone can get nice clothes on a budget- because as Janea also says:

You can dress inexpensively if you have good taste!

julie

Sports Psychology and Bipolar Disorder

As you may have heard me say a million times in the past, I get a lot of inspiration from professional athletes. They are unique in the world in that their minds must be completely under control in order for them to be successful at such a high level. Here is an example. The world series of baseball is going on these days – the pitcher on the mound tonight had a fight with his catcher earlier in the year. This of course is not ok in the multi million dollar world of professional baseball.

So the pitcher saw a famous sports psychologist named Ken Ravizza and learned to get his mind under control so that he could use his physical talents to win games. Here is what the psychologist said:

“It’s not like an elite-level athlete is messed up and we’re going to fix him,” Ravizza said. “It’s about what it takes to be great. The mental game is such a big part of it; you have to develop it like the physical game.

“It’s not about feeling great. It’s about learning to be comfortable being uncomfortable. You’re going to be uncomfortable. You’re going to feel pressure. If you think you’re going to be relaxed and mellow, you’re kidding yourself. The difference is embracing it.”

That’s what I’m learning about bipolar disorder. I control as much as I can and I’m exponentially better than I have ever been, but I still have a lot of serious mood swings. I’m just learning to live with some of the uncomfortable thoughts I have to go through while I manage the illness. I will have this illness for the rest of my life. I work hard every single day to stay stable, but on some days, like today- I just have to deal with some really uncomfortable thoughts and do what I can to get better. I can do it!

Julie

PS: I am going to read Ravizza’s book Heads Up Baseball and see what I can learn about myself. I also highly recomend A Champion’s Mind by Pete Sampras.

Teleseminar #2 Preventing Seasonal Affective Disorder and Holiday Blues!

Here is the information on my next teleseminar.

http://www.juliefast.com/teleseminars.php

I always have a tough time when the weather gets dark- and I certainly have to have a plan to make sure the holidays are fun and not lonely and stressful! I hope you can join me when we talk about these issues!

Julie

Excellent book on anxiety!

Most people with bipolar disorder experience anxiety symptoms. I recomend the book: The Idiot’s Guide to Controlling Anxiety by John Johnston.
I learned SO much from this book.

Did you know there are seven forms of anxiety inluding general anxiety and OCD!

This book is good for a general audience as it can help explain your behaivor or that of someone you love- as anxiety is pretty wide spread here in the States!

julie