A Survivor's Guide to Living with Bipolar Disorder

  • Help I’ve Just Been Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder

    Help I’ve Just Been Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder

    You have just been diagnosed and you’re thinking what Now? What does this mean? Where do I go from here? Don’t Panic Your life is not over – quite the opposite. Congratulations on the first day of the rest of your life  On average in the U.K. it takes 9.5 years, from first seeing a…

  • What is Bipolar Disorder?

    What is Bipolar Disorder?

    Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings, from severe depression to intense highs. It affects 1-3% of the population, with symptoms often appearing in late teens. There are different types, each with distinct characteristics. The causes are thought to be genetic and environmental, but much remains unknown.

  • Bipolar Survival Toolkit

    Bipolar Survival Toolkit

    These are the Bipolar Survival Tools that allow me to manage my illness

  • Gratitude and bipolar disorder

    Gratitude and bipolar disorder

    Practicing gratitude daily can significantly improve mental well-being, especially for those with bipolar depression. It enhances happiness, reduces stress and anxiety, and fosters deeper connections. By acknowledging life’s small blessings and maintaining gratitude, individuals shift their perspective, promoting positivity and resilience while navigating challenges. Consistent practice is essential for effectiveness.

  • 15 Common Bipolar Triggers

    15 Common Bipolar Triggers

    Getting to know your triggers is an essential part of managing bipolar disorder. They look different for everyone. What triggers one, may not trigger another. I have listed the most common triggers that I and others with bipolar experience. This list is by no means complete – you may have other triggers I have not…

  • When the Clocks Change – Bipolar and Circadian Rhythms

    When the Clocks Change – Bipolar and Circadian Rhythms

    In the U.K. our clock changes to British Summer Time overnight on the 29th march in 2025. The clock will go forward one hour. Bipolar disorder can make you sensitive to these time changes. Be aware and be prepared. Circadian rhythms are daily rhythms and patterns controlled by our biological clock. When those rhythms are…

  • 15 Top Tips for managing bipolar disorder

    15 Top Tips for managing bipolar disorder

    These are my top tips for managing bipolar. Wisdom passed on to me by my bipolar peers that’s made a real difference to my life. Now it’s my turn to pass it on to you.

  • Trigger Warning – Bipolar and Suicidal Ideation

    Trigger Warning – Bipolar and Suicidal Ideation

    People with bipolar disorder have a much higher risk of suicidal ideation and taking their own life than the general population. With 25% – 50% of bipolar patients having attempted to take their own life at least once.

  • Hypersexuality

    Hypersexuality

    One of taboo the symptoms of bipolar disorder, hypersexuality is rarely talked about. It can be a very dangerous and destructive symptom.

  • Stress Less

    Stress Less

    Stress is a major trigger for many of us with bipolar disorder. It is vital that we learn to how to recognise and manage it.

  • Depression Survival Guide

    Depression Survival Guide

    Depression can be experienced in many ways, with varying severities. You can be high-functioning or unable to get out of bed. Common symptoms can be exhaustion, sadness, despair, hopelessness, dark-negative thoughts, paranoia, losing enjoyment, no motivation, numbness, over-eating or under-eating, over-emotional and overwhelmed. Sometimes thoughts of self-harm and suicidal ideation can be present in severe…