I had no idea that what began as a childhood hobby would turn into a means of communicating my healing journey and lived experiences with mental illness, substance use and trauma. My creative journey acts as more than an outlet for my mental health struggles, it’s also become a passionate form of release I used to reach others in need of empathy and understanding on their own journey.

Finding My Creative Inspiration in Others 

Over the years I have met many people like myself, with similar experiences, traumas and mental illnesses that use various creative outlets to express themselves while trying to cope with the harsh realities that come with mental illness. I have been hospitalized with poets, singers, visual artists, self-taught pianists and guitarists. What we all had in common was the longing to find peace in the chaos of our minds through our chosen mediums. 

Creativity is not unique to those with Bipolar disorder or other mental illness; what is unique however is our shared need to use creativity to heal our mind, bodies and souls. Every individual that I have met on my creative journey that uses their own creativity to express their struggles has inspired me to move forward in my journey to wellness, they have encouraged me to continue to use my chosen medium of writing to heal myself and help others.   

The Highs and Lows of Creativity

My ability to express myself through writing also aids me in understanding when I’m experiencing my manic highs and depressive lows. When I’m manic I tend to write more as well as think faster than the words can be put on the page. My manic writing style flows fast and furious but my mind expands into a creative realm I have never been able to reach during periods of wellness or during depressive cycles. When I am experiencing low moods my writing becomes dark reflections on my past experiences and ruminations on my feelings of hopelessness and despair. Wherever my emotions and mindset land in my Bipolar cycle I find that creating a work, any work leads to positive outcomes and better understanding of my mental health. 

Creativity: The Double-edged Sword

Creativity can be over-whelming, acting as a double-edged sword. It's entirely possible to create nothing but insanity on a page regardless of how creative you are. For me writing while in manic-psychosis is an example of this. I have kept the journals I have written in since my first manic episode in 2006. When I examine and reflect on the ramblings of my past all I see is pages and pages of paranoid recordings of a patient trying to find clarity in the chaos of the psychiatric unit. When I am deeply in my illness I look for meaning where there is no meaning, I keep detailed records of what I eat, my sleep patterns, my medication regime. I write letters to the voices in my head, to the people I believed have wronged me and mostly to God. Looking back on these entries is always hard until I inevitably come across a poem or a piece of pros that reminds me that in the midst of madness I’m still me, still creative, still a writer with something worthwhile to say.

Finding Your Creativity 

However you choose to express yourself creatively there are several important benefits to finding an outlet that works for you. Remember, you don’t have to be the next Picasso or have the voice of Whitney Houston. Sometimes finding your creative voice just means stepping out of your comfort zone and having fun. Creativity is about the progress you make on your journey to wellness not being perfect at your chosen craft. 

Tapping into your creativity can assist in emotional regulation, reduce your anxiety and stabilize your mood during the manic highs or depressive lows of Bipolar disorder. Creativity can also promote cognitive focus leading to a calming effect on your mind and body that can help  keep the racing thoughts that often come with Bipolar disorder at bay. Don’t be afraid to take creative risks by trying new hobbies you had previously never considered. Below is a list of ideas for where you can start. Over the years I have tried each on my journey to expand my creativity.

1. Music Therapy (vocal or instrumental)

2. Colouring or Drawing

3. Painting for Anxiety

4. Sculpting

5. Dance Therapy

6. Lyric Writing

7. Therapeutic Writing 

8. Jewelry Making

9. Journaling (prompted, freestyle and gratitude)

10. Drumming

My experiences with several of these hobbies were self-directed; however I was also given the opportunity to explore these creative outlets in community organizations such as Ontario Shores and Durham Mental Health Services (DMHS) recovery college setting which often offers creative courses as they too recognize expressive arts healing power.    

Final Thought

Creativity is a powerful tool for managing bipolar disorder, offering emotional release, focus, and connection. For women navigating this journey, creative expression can turn struggles into strengths, helping to stabilize moods and rediscover joy.

If you’re living with bipolar disorder, consider exploring creative outlets that speak to you. Whether it’s journaling, painting, or even gardening, your creativity has the potential to be both a sanctuary and a superpower. Start small, stay curious, and embrace the healing process—one brushstroke, word, or note at a time.

Be fearless in discovering where your creativity lies because somewhere inside you is the inspiration that can lead you down the path of better mental health and wellness. Remember, everyday is an opportunity to do something you’ve never done before.

The Power of Journaling

When I moved to Canada from Guyana, I often felt lonely. Although I spoke English fluently, my accent made me a target for teasing. In those moments of isolation, journaling became my lifeline. Writing in my diary allowed me to articulate my thoughts and feelings without the fear of judgment. The beauty of words is that they have no accent, and through them, I found my voice.

Over the years, I’ve filled over 50 journals—each unique, from collaged covers to leather-bound books adorned with affirmations. These journals are not just relics of my past; they reside on my bookshelf, serving as a reservoir of reflections. Each entry captures a moment in time, allowing me to look back and understand how far I’ve come. This blog serves as a public journal, a space where I hope to connect with others facing similar struggles.

Journaling as a Tool for Bipolar Management

For those living with Bipolar disorder, journaling can be an invaluable tool for managing symptoms. Here are a few ways journaling has helped me and can help others:

1. Emotional Release: Journaling provides a safe space to release pent-up emotions. When I feel overwhelmed, putting pen to paper allows me to externalize my thoughts and emotions, making them more manageable.

2. Tracking Moods: By recording my moods daily, I can identify patterns and triggers that might lead to manic or depressive episodes. This awareness empowers me to take proactive steps to mitigate potential crises.

3. Reflection and Learning: Each journal entry serves as a lesson learned. Reflecting on past experiences helps me understand my reactions and choices, allowing me to navigate similar situations more effectively in the future.

4. Building Resilience: Journaling has taught me the importance of resilience. It serves as a reminder of my strength during challenging times. Revisiting past struggles in my journals helps me appreciate my progress and resilience.

5. Encouraging Self-Compassion: Writing down affirmations or positive self-talk can shift my mindset during difficult moments. It helps me practice self-compassion and reduces feelings of guilt or shame associated with my disorder.

Peer Support and Journaling Programs

During my time as a Peer Support Specialist at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto, I participated in building a recovery college course focused on "Journaling for Mental Health" and "Journaling for Self-Discovery." This program was designed to empower others by sharing the benefits of journaling in managing their mental health. Through workshops, participants learned how to express their feelings, set goals, and reflect on their experiences through writing.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this initiative was seeing participants discover the therapeutic power of journaling. Many reported feeling lighter after expressing their emotions on paper, and it became a vital part of their recovery journey.

A Legacy of Journaling

I find joy in sharing the gift of journaling with others. Five years ago, I gave my little cousin (he’s 30+) a journal, and he has found it transformative. He notes that many successful individuals keep journals, reflecting on their past to foster growth. As a history major, I appreciate the importance of understanding the past to live fully in the present. Journaling offers that reflection, allowing individuals, especially those with Bipolar disorder, to learn from their lived experiences.

Final Thought

Journaling has profoundly impacted my life, providing me with a channel for expression and self-discovery. I can say with all certainty it's been a life-long passion that helps me express myself. I encourage anyone facing mental health challenges to explore journaling as a tool for managing their journey. Whether it’s capturing daily thoughts, tracking moods, or reflecting on personal growth, the power of the written word can be a beacon of hope in the storm of Bipolar disorder.

For more comprehensive strategies on navigating this journey, be sure to check out How to Start Managing Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide and Best Tools and Resources for Managing Bipolar Disorder in 2024.

May your journey be filled with self-discovery, resilience, and the healing power of journaling.