Shame, guilt, and self-stigma. Our host, Gabe Howard, may openly talk about living with bipolar disorder, but that doesn't mean he doesn’t feel shame and guilt. In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole Washington dive deep into the lingering guilt many feel after a bipolar diagnosis. Why do feelings of self-stigma persist, even after years into recovery? From internalized discrimination to societal misunderstandings, Gabe shares how he grappled with his diagnosis and the emotional baggage that follo...
Oct 07, 2024•39 min
Can mania and depression really coexist? In this episode, our hosts unravel the complexities of bipolar mixed episodes — where mania and depression collide in the same mind, often creating a personal hell for those experiencing it. Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington dive into the complexities of mixed episodes, highlighting that they’re far more than just mood changes. Bipolar mood episodes combine dangerous elements like high energy, impulsivity, and intense...
Sep 30, 2024•33 min
This episode delves into the often-overlooked aftermath of living with bipolar disorder, even after achieving stability. Gabe, who lives with bipolar, shares his personal experiences of lingering fears, the trauma of past depressive episodes, and the constant self-monitoring that comes with managing his illness. Dr. Nicole explores the delicate balance between responsibility and self-compassion, and how trauma, even if not officially recognized as such, can profoundly alter one’s life. They disc...
Sep 23, 2024•32 min
Trying to achieve that perfect work-life balance? You’re not alone, and it might be doing more harm than good—especially if you’re managing bipolar disorder. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar, and Dr. Nicole Washington debunk the myth of work-life balance, revealing how this ideal can fuel feelings of inadequacy and guilt for those living with bipolar disorder. Instead of chasing an impossible standard, learn about work-life integration and how to create a more compassionate, ...
Sep 16, 2024•34 min
Today we discuss how to navigate friendships, avoid echo chambers, and integrate professional advice into your bipolar support system. Learn why having a range of perspectives is essential for your mental health journey and how to effectively manage relationships without falling into codependency. We explore the intricate balance of maintaining friendships while managing bipolar disorder. Gabe, who lives with bipolar, shares his personal challenges with relying solely on friends with bipolar dis...
Sep 09, 2024•41 min
Today we delve into the complex relationship between menstrual cycles, hormonal fluctuations, and bipolar disorder. Join Dr. Nicole Washington and Natasha Tracy, who lives with bipolar disorder, as they explore how periods and other “women’s health” issues can impact mood stability and what menstruating people with bipolar disorder should know about managing their symptoms. Learn about the importance of tracking mood changes, the role of birth control in symptom management, and why open communic...
Sep 02, 2024•47 min
Ever wonder if dizziness is from your medication or if there's really such a thing as medication-resistant bipolar disorder? In this episode, our hosts tackle questions submitted by listeners, diving into topics rarely discussed on other podcasts. Questions include: Is the brain of someone with bipolar disorder physically different? What exactly is TMS and does it work for bipolar? Was lithium really tested on guinea pigs first? Tune in for quick, informative answers — and a dose of humor — to q...
Aug 26, 2024•41 min
Curious about how bipolar disorder is diagnosed? Join Gabe and Dr. Nicole as they break down the intricacies of the diagnostic process. From recognizing the subtle signs of mania and depression to understanding the importance of detailed questioning, this episode offers an in-depth look at what it takes to accurately diagnose bipolar disorder. Whether you're noticing symptoms in yourself or supporting someone you care about, our hosts explain with simple language and relatable examples. They mak...
Aug 19, 2024•36 min
Our hosts discuss practical strategies for managing negativity with bipolar disorder in this episode. They explore the importance of setting realistic expectations and making necessary adjustments in daily routines. They also emphasize the value in understanding and differentiating between baseline emotions and those triggered by bipolar disorder. Gabe, who lives with bipolar himself, shares insights on reframing negative experiences to recognize the positives in life — or at least to see a diff...
Aug 12, 2024•40 min
In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the misconception that resilience is an inherent trait for those with bipolar disorder, highlighting the hard work and external support necessary for true recovery. Gabe shares personal experiences of frustration with the superficial praise of resilience, stressing the importance of addressing the trauma and journey of living with a serious mental illness. Tune in to learn what resilience is (and is not), the need for genuine support, and the impact o...
Aug 05, 2024•39 min
SAMHSA defines recovery as a “process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.” But how do you define recovery for yourself? Today, our hosts delve into the complexities of defining and understanding recovery in bipolar disorder. They discuss the constant struggle to distinguish between bipolar symptoms and “normal” mood fluctuations, the importance of self-directed recovery goals, and the role of ...
Jul 29, 2024•37 min
Join our hosts as they delve into the intricacies of psychosis, hallucinations, and delusions, highlighting the challenges faced by those who experience them and their impact on loved ones. Gabe shares his journey with bipolar psychosis, detailing the intense delusions involving demons that once dominated his life. Through candid conversation and professional insights, our hosts explore the realities of mental illness, emphasize the importance of compassionate support, and discuss practical stra...
Jul 22, 2024•42 min
Today, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the anti-psychiatry movement, emphasizing the importance of balancing perspectives. They acknowledge the valid concerns of anti-psychiatry advocates but caution against the dangers of extreme views, which can undermine beneficial aspects of psychiatric treatment. They encourage reading both pro- and anti-psychiatry literature to make informed decisions while underscoring the need for improvements in the mental health field to address its historical (and ongoing...
Jul 15, 2024•45 min
Today, we tackle the complex question, "How do you know if you're getting better with bipolar disorder?" Gabe shares his experiences and frustrations as a patient with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole provides insights from a board certified psychiatrist's viewpoint. Together, they discuss the importance of setting realistic goals, the value of tracking progress through mood journals and standardized assessments, and the often-overlooked small victories in the journey toward wellness. Whether yo...
Jul 08, 2024•41 min
We discuss the common complaint from people with bipolar disorder of feeling emotionally blunted or like a "zombie" due to their medication. Gabe expresses the people’s frustrations when their concerns seem dismissed in favor of highlighting symptom improvements. Dr. Nicole emphasizes the importance of providing specific examples and patience because medications take time to stabilize. They conclude that to effectively address this issue, people need to clearly communicate their experiences, and...
Jul 01, 2024•40 min
Our hosts delve into the crucial aspects of understanding and managing a bipolar disorder diagnosis. Join them as they break down five essential questions every person should ask their healthcare professional about their diagnosis and treatment options. Learn why these questions matter, how to navigate the complex diagnostic process, and explore some of the common treatment avenues. Whether you've just received a diagnosis or are seeking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers valuable...
Jun 24, 2024•45 min
Our hosts try to avoid pop psychology topics and focus on specifics with more robust scientific backing. However, imposter syndrome has been getting a lot of attention recently. Even though imposter syndrome isn't officially a diagnosis, it's a real issue for many, including people with bipolar disorder. The fact is, imposter syndrome can affect anyone, regardless of other mental health disorders, and finding community and allies is one way to combat it. In this episode, our hosts reflect on the...
Jun 17, 2024•48 min
Ever wondered why your psychiatrist bombards you with what seem like mundane questions? Join Gabe, who is navigating life with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, as they delve into the dynamics of your psych visit. Their talk will touch on mood charts, sleep journals, and a better understanding of what is going through your provider’s mind as they direct the appointment. Uncover the hidden gems behind those seemingly routine questions and learn how they ...
Jun 10, 2024•48 min
The common issue of people with bipolar disorder wanting to stop taking medication is discussed in today’s episode. Dr. Nicole Washington highlights that often, these people present compelling reasons why they believe their diagnosis might be incorrect, but stopping medication without a strategic, supervised approach can lead to severe consequences. Both Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole emphasize the importance of patient education about the chronic nature of bipolar disorder and the potential dangers...
Jun 03, 2024•43 min
Is it ever OK to joke about living with bipolar disorder? And what about people who live with bipolar — are they welcome to jest about their experiences, or is it considered inappropriate? While mental health circles often advocate embracing humor as a healthy coping mechanism, there's also the acknowledgment that bipolar disorder is a serious condition and should not be trivialized. Today's episode delves into this nuanced topic, inviting listeners to consider various perspectives on the matter...
May 27, 2024•45 min
We discuss the challenges people face when needing to find a new psychiatrist, therapist, or support group, emphasizing that while people often underestimate the difficulty of this process, it's a crucial step in managing a long-term mental illness. We highlight that a solid patient-provider relationship is vital and can take time to replace a trusted professional. Dr. Nicole Washington advises on the importance of maintaining an updated medical history and being active in transitioning to a new...
May 13, 2024•44 min
Today we discuss the importance of forming a supportive partnership with loved ones managing bipolar disorder without it devolving into a codependent relationship. We also discuss how important it is for our friends and family members not to micromanage or infantilize those living with bipolar. We emphasize the value of open communication so loved ones can express their fears and concerns and provide encouragement and positive interaction beyond the illness. Finally, the hosts encourage sharing ...
Apr 29, 2024•44 min
Dispelling myths surrounding bipolar disorder can be challenging, especially considering its diverse presentation among individuals. In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole delve into these misconceptions, emphasizing the varied nature of the disorder's symptoms and the complexities involved in diagnosis and treatment. While acknowledging the importance of medication, they stress the holistic approach necessary for effective management, including therapy, support networks, and coping mechanisms. Ad...
Apr 15, 2024•37 min
Today’s episode discusses the complexities and reality of mood stabilizers for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Though mood stabilizers can significantly aid in shifting mood, they are not perfect and come with various side effects, some of which may require regular blood monitoring and can affect daily life differently for each individual. You can work with healthcare professionals to manage side effects, and sometimes, you can even find the positives in the challenges of treatment. To learn ...
Apr 01, 2024•50 min
Many people with bipolar disorder miss the feeling of mania despite its destructive nature. Today, we discuss the complexity of treating bipolar disorder, emphasizing the importance of patience, concrete examples of symptoms, and the fact that medication can help stabilize and potentially hinder a patient's cognitive functions. Gabe and Dr. Nicole both agree on the need for people with bipolar disorder to be strong self-advocates, involve support systems, and work closely with their healthcare p...
Mar 18, 2024•41 min
Addressing the more difficult and less discussed aspects of bipolar disorder, such as the high suicide rates associated with the condition, the severe impacts of depressive episodes, and societal stigma & discrimination is never easy. However, in today's episode, we ask ourselves, candidly, do podcasts like this one ignore the “ugly” side of bipolar disorder? What about mental health speakers, writers, and influencers? Has the desire to put a positive spin on the harsh reality of mental illn...
Mar 04, 2024•45 min
If you spend time discussing bipolar disorder, you’ll quickly see there are many complexities and controversies surrounding language and identity. Today’s conversation aims to emphasize respect and personal empowerment while encouraging society to accommodate individual language preferences and focus on broader issues of care for those living with bipolar disorder. In today’s episode, we explore the tension between person-first language and conscious language initiatives and the way individuals ...
Feb 19, 2024•41 min
“Bipolar urges" are the strong desires or impulses that people managing bipolar disorder may experience. Sometimes, giving in to these impulses can lead to significant life changes, such as quitting a job or spending excessively. It’s important to understand that while urges are a natural part of human behavior, managing them in the context of bipolar disorder is critical to prevent negative outcomes and maintain stability. In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole explore the challenges of di...
Feb 05, 2024•42 min
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is often compared to — or even confused with — bipolar disorder. Many people are curious whether BPD and bipolar are the same thing with different names. In this episode, we discuss what BPD is, what it is not, and if bipolar disorder and BPD have any relation at all. We also delve into whether someone can have both disorders. Join us as Dr. Nicole and Gabe compare and contrast bipolar and BPD. To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official ep...
Jan 22, 2024•43 min
We’ve talked about how to manage going back to work after a bipolar diagnosis. But what about going to school? What is college like with bipolar disorder? What are the unique challenges of trying to navigate academia with a mental illness? And how can you put yourself in the best possible position for success? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss practical tips and considerations when starting your college career — all ideas and things that will put you in the best position for success. To lea...
Jan 08, 2024•50 min
