I can be stubborn, but I’m also curious. After hearing repeatedly how physical activity improves brain function, boosts mood, and supports overall health, I decided to take small steps to include movement in my self-care routine. Although I was 40 pounds overweight, I didn’t approach exercise for weight loss. I chose activities that supported my mood, mind, and mental health.

In this article, I’ll share how physical activity helps stabilize mood. I’ll tell my story—how I walked toward wellness with detours along the way. I’ll explore how self-compassion plays a key role in building a sustainable habit, highlight stories from women who live life in motion, and offer tips that helped me build structure, routine, and consistency in my physical activity journey.

How Movement Helps Stabilize Mood

Physical activity has a profound impact on emotional regulation. It releases endorphins that naturally boost mood. It also supports brain health by promoting the growth of new cells and reducing inflammation in areas linked to emotional balance. Physical activity can interrupt negative thought patterns, create a sense of accomplishment, and build self-esteem—all crucial for coping.

For women with Bipolar disorder, movement can regulate mood, improve sleep, ease anxiety and depression, and even help restore cognitive function. Whether it’s walking, stretching, or strength training, movement activates the mind-body connection, which is essential for emotional stability.

Walking Toward Wellness: A Lived Experience

Five years ago, I was living in the city, navigating a depressive episode, and teetering between overweight and obese. I used to walk for hours in my early 30s through my parents’ suburban neighbourhood. By 35, I lived 20 minutes from the lake and walked regularly. But when I moved to Toronto, surrounded by concrete and crime, walking no longer felt safe—or desirable.

I lost all structure and fell into unhealthy habits. I only left home for work, groceries, or cigarettes. It took years before I felt ready to take a walk toward wellness again.

It started with a simple hike. A colleague invited me out of the city. I hadn’t seen trees or breathed fresh air in years. She called it a “baby hike,” but I struggled. I returned home sweaty, dirty, covered in leaves—and more alive than I’d felt in a long time. That hike sparked something. Every weekend, I hiked. When I moved back home, I hiked with anyone I could convince to join. I eventually became a certified Ontario Hike Leader.

Now, I don’t hike as often, so six months ago I joined a gym. I committed to walking 3–5 miles daily on the treadmill and training twice a week with a personal trainer. Yes, I’ve lost weight—but the most powerful change is internal. I’ve gained emotional strength, clarity, and focus.

Emotional regulation has always been a challenge: tearful outbursts, deep sadness, hypersensitivity, and sudden anger. Since incorporating regular physical activity, I’ve gained better control over these emotions. It started with small steps, but over time, exercise changed my mindset, improved my mental health, and stabilized my mood.

Surprisingly, the gym has become one of my safe spaces—a place where I feel free, fearless, and focused.

You Will Fall Off Track—And That’s Okay: Remember Your Why

Everyone has “off days,” especially when living with bipolar disorder. Sleepless nights, mood shifts, and depressive episodes are part of the landscape. Some weeks, I didn’t move at all—let alone make it to the gym.

The key isn’t avoiding setbacks—it’s returning after them. Whether it’s stretching in bed, doing yoga in your living room, or walking around the block, each time you move, you reclaim your power. Self-compassion is essential. So is remembering your “why.” Reminding yourself why you began your movement journey can be enough to get you going again.

Movement Looks Different for Everyone

For some, high-intensity workouts bring a sense of achievement. For others, like me, daily gym visits feel like success. But physical activity doesn’t have to be intense or traditional. Movement is simply about moving—on your terms.

Walking your dog, dancing while you cook, stretching to music, or doing chair yoga are all valid. The goal isn’t performance—it’s participation. Find what fits your body, lifestyle, and current season of life.

Creating a Life in Motion: Lived Experiences of Women with Bipolar Disorder

Catherine, a young mother of two, used yoga to regulate her mood before motherhood. She attended classes multiple times a week and practiced at home when needed. After starting a family, she adapted her routine—now practicing 15 minutes a day to maintain inner calm.

Kim, a first-year college student and former dance major, felt homesick and emotionally overwhelmed. She missed dancing and realized it helped regulate her mood. She enrolled in Hip-Hop and Contemporary classes at her university and now takes 2–3 per week. Her stress is lower, and she feels more emotionally balanced.

Dani had just been discharged from a psychiatric unit after a two-month depressive episode. Tired from her new medication and 15 pounds heavier, she remembered how good walking made her feel. On the first day of spring, she started morning walks while listening to music. By summer, she walked daily—and her depressive episode had lifted.

These stories show that physical activity can transform mood, mindset, and mental health. There’s no one “right” way to move. The power lies in showing up—for yourself and your well-being.

Tips for Creating a Gentle, Consistent Routine

1. Start with what you have.
Your body is enough. Begin slowly. Don’t commit to intense programs until you know what you enjoy. Use the suggestions in this article to get started.

2. Set realistic goals.
Instead of “I’ll run a mile,” start with “I’ll walk for 10 minutes.” Small wins build momentum and confidence.

3. Pair movement with something uplifting.
Listen to your favourite playlist, audiobook, or exercise with a friend. It can make movement feel less like a chore and more like a joy.

4. Be flexible.
All-or-nothing thinking is a trap. If you don’t hit your full goal, that’s okay. Something is always better than nothing. If you’re consistently struggling to meet a goal, it may be time to adjust—without guilt.

Movement is an Act of Self-Love

Physical activity isn’t just about your body—it’s about your mind and emotions. Reframe movement as a practice of self-love. It’s about how it makes you feel, not how you look. Loving your body means moving when you can, resting when you need to, and always returning when you're ready.

Final Thoughts: Today Starts With Movement

As Lao Tzu said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” The journey toward mental wellness through physical activity begins the same way.

I’m grateful physical activity is now part of my life. It was the missing piece in my structure, routine, and habits. It started with a walk—and I hope it continues for years to come.

I feel no pressure to “do more” on my movement journey. When setbacks happen, I remind myself that falling off track means there’s always a way back. Consistency isn’t easy. There will be days when “movement” doesn’t exist in your vocabulary. But every day ends, and a new one begins. Every day is an opportunity to start again.

To my readers: What’s one way you can move your body today? Just one. Start there.

From my first manic-psychotic episode to my most recent, life often felt as though it had flipped upside-down—and I had no idea how to right myself. For nearly 20 years, I let life happen to me. My responses—both uplifting and self-destructive—set in motion a series of events I didn’t recognize then as tests of my strength and emotional stability. Looking back now, I understand: it's not what happens to you, but how you react that defines your healing and growth.

Diagnosis, Grief, and Emotional Extremes

When I was diagnosed with Bipolar I disorder in 2006, I was an Honours graduate from Carleton University mourning the death of my grandmother—my soulmate—who passed away on my 22nd birthday. My life became a complex mix of achievement and sorrow, dreams and heartbreak. Caught between extremes, I turned to substances to dull the weight of my emotions. It was a way to escape the reality of bipolar disorder—a way to exist in the numb void between joy and grief.

This emotional polarity became a recurring pattern. Yet even in moments of despair, I made positive choices and showed resilience. Still, adversity never strayed far.

Recovery, Remission, Relapse, and Resilience

After four years of remission, I was accepted into a graduate diploma program at Humber College. Life felt balanced again. I was proud and optimistic.

Then, just three months into the program, my six-year relationship ended—followed the next day by my nomination as Event Management Chair, overseeing one of the college’s most important events. Once again, I found myself in a bittersweet place: standing in success while mourning loss.

Instead of confronting the pain, I returned to self-medicating. I sought the numbing void between overwhelmed and empty. By the end of the term, I suffered my first manic-psychotic episode in four years and was hospitalized.

Recovery came slowly. Through structure, routine, and healthy habits, I found stability and space to reflect:
How did I fall so far, so fast? Why hadn’t I learned from the past? Why was my instinct to run from pain rather than grow through it?

I no longer trusted myself. My self-worth was low. Doing what was easy—what was wrong—was easier than doing what was right. That’s when I knew I needed to begin the hard work of self-awareness, self-love, and emotional healing.

It took three years, two internships, another hospitalization, summer school, night school, and a relentless inner fire—but I graduated from my PR and Communications program. One teacher described me as “a tenacious student who would find success in her future.” I’ve come to believe that when life happens to you, your reaction—your resilience—is what shapes your future.

Then There Was COVID-19

By 2020, I was in my longest remission since being diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I had spent seven years in Toronto, supported by an incredible social worker and a 23-member outpatient care team. I was thriving, training as a Peer Support Specialist at a hospital’s Recovery College, and immersed in psychoeducation, trauma therapy, and self-care practices. I created a Crisis Plan (WRAP) and medical directive, sharing it with friends, family, my medical team, and employer.

Then came March 2020. The world changed.

I remember walking to Recovery College that morning feeling healthy, happy, and whole. By evening, I was stockpiling supplies, preparing for an indefinite lockdown. The country was in crisis. Fear and uncertainty filled every space.

Soon after, I was redeployed by my hospital to support frontline efforts. I was assigned to the ER. While part of me was relieved to leave the isolation of my apartment, a larger part trembled with fear—of the virus, the unknown, and what the hospital would ask of me.

After two weeks, I was exhausted but useful. I was adjusting. Then an email invited the Recovery College team to a virtual meeting. There, we were all laid off. The entire program was being dissolved.

In that moment—unaware I was the one screaming until a colleague mentioned it—I unleashed years of fear, anxiety, betrayal, grief, and pain. My emotional response was immediate and overwhelming. Everything I had built began to unravel.

Peace turned to turmoil. Wellness to relapse. Stability to chaos. Hope to heartbreak.

It’s Not What Happens to You, But How You React

So, how do you face a mountain of disillusionment built from a global pandemic and a mood disorder triggered by stress, trauma, isolation, grief, instability, and loss?

How do you react when mental health, emotional wellness, and everything you’ve worked for feel like they’re slipping away?

I’ll continue this journey of reflection and healing in Part 2.

Join me Saturday, August 2, 2025, as I share what came next—how I chose to respond when tested in ways I never imagined.

Understanding Depression and Anxiety in Women with Bipolar Disorder: Insights and Support

In this blog, we’ll explore how Depression and Anxiety manifest in women with Bipolar disorder, discuss treatment options, and share some strategies that have helped me along the way. If you’re just starting your journey, check out my previous article on How to Start Managing Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder marked by extreme highs (Mania) and lows (Depression). There are different types: Bipolar I, where Mania is more severe, and Bipolar II, where depressive episodes tend to dominate. For women, these mood swings can be even more intense due to hormonal changes like menstruation or pregnancy.

I’ve found that recognizing my mood patterns helps me prepare for what's coming. It doesn’t solve the problem, but it gives me a little more control over the chaos. It’s about understanding how my brain works and finding ways to work with it, rather than against it.

The Impact of Depression in Women with Bipolar Disorder

Depression with Bipolar disorder is more than just feeling sad. It’s an all-encompassing weight that drains your energy, your motivation, and sometimes even your will to live. I’ve gone through periods of uncontrollable crying, days spent in bed, and times where I couldn’t even muster the strength to shower.

For me, depressive episodes are often triggered by major life events, like losing a loved one, or even something as simple as seasonal changes. The worst part is the isolation—feeling like no one understands. But once I started reaching out for help, things slowly began to change.

Anxiety Disorders Coexisting with Bipolar Disorder

Anxiety can show up in a variety of ways. I was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety disorder (GAD) when I was 16 years-old, but my Anxiety started long before that. As a kid, I worried about everything—school, family, money. The racing thoughts were so loud that I would physically shake my head to try to quiet them down. It wasn’t until much later that I realized this was my Anxiety taking control.

My Anxiety often fuels my Depression, and sometimes it’s hard to tell where one ends and the other begins. Self-medicating with substances like marijuana was a mistake I made in my 20s, thinking it would help. Instead, it propelled me into my first manic-psychotic episode, leading to my diagnosis of Bipolar I disorder. Learning to manage my Anxiety has been a crucial step in managing my overall mental health.

Treatment Options for Depression and Anxiety in Bipolar Disorder

Medication can be helpful, but it’s not always straightforward. I take anti-anxiety medication as needed, but antidepressants have never worked for me. In fact, they’ve made me feel worse—suicidal even. My psychiatrist says I’m “treatment-resistant” to antidepressants, which happens with some people who have Major Depressive disorder. Finding the right medication cocktail is essential, but it can take time.

Therapy is another critical piece. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has helped me change negative thought patterns, while Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) incorporates mindfulness practices to help manage emotions. Peer support groups have also been a safe space for me to share my struggles and connect with others who understand.

Lifestyle Changes and Coping Strategies

Managing Bipolar disorder isn’t just about medication and therapy—it’s about how you live your life. For me, self-care means prioritizing my physical and mental health. Eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly have become non-negotiable parts of my routine.

Mindfulness has also played a huge role in reducing my anxiety. Breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation help me stay grounded when my mind starts to race. It’s taken time, but I’ve learned that building a strong support network and finding community resources has been life-changing.

Advocacy and Resources

Advocating for myself didn’t come naturally. In the beginning, I was shuffled around in the mental health system, too scared to speak up. I didn’t feel like anyone would listen to the “Bipolar girl.” But once I started educating myself about my condition, I gained the confidence to speak up and demand the care I deserved.

As women, we often struggle to voice our needs. But finding your voice is key to navigating the healthcare system and getting the support you need. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and when you can’t, rely on your support team to advocate for you. There are more resources available today than ever before—spaces where we can move beyond the stigma and have real conversations about mental health.

Final Thoughts

Depression and Anxiety are tough enough on their own, but when combined with Bipolar disorder, they can feel impossible to manage. Understanding the connection between these conditions is the first step in regaining control. With the right treatment plan, lifestyle changes, and support system, you can find balance in your life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Depression, Anxiety, or Bipolar disorder, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Together, we can foster resilience and create a path toward mental wellness. Let’s keep having conversations that take us beyond the stigma of mental illness. For more insights on managing bipolar disorder, check out my pillar post How to Start Managing Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide.

Starting Next Week

If you're new to managing Bipolar disorder, check out my Comprehensive Guide on How to Start Managing Bipolar Disorder.

Understanding the Emotional Landscape of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder doesn’t just throw your emotions off balance during manic or depressive episodes—it can mess with them even in between. Emotional dysregulation, where you have trouble controlling your feelings, is common for women with Bipolar disorder. Anger, shame, and guilt can become intense and overwhelming. These feelings are often tied to what happens before, during, and after an episode, so recognizing patterns is important.

I’ve experienced all of these emotions, sometimes within a short time span, and it often feels like my emotional pendulum swings from one extreme to another. Learning to understand how and why these emotions come up has been crucial for managing them.

How Anger Manifests in Women with Bipolar Disorder

Anger is tough, especially for women with Bipolar disorder. Society often labels women who show emotion as “dramatic” or “unreliable,” and those of us with Bipolar disorder are frequently called “crazy” or “unstable.” This stigma can make it harder to express anger in healthy ways.

For me, I rarely feel anger when I’m well, but during a manic episode, it can hit me like a storm. It’s overwhelming and feels out of control. What helps me is safe, aggressive exercise—like boxing or kickboxing. When I’m in that space, I can release the anger without causing harm. I also journal, which helps me process the feelings and understand where they came from once I’m back in remission. And having people around me, like my cousins and mental health mentor, who understand my emotional dysregulation has been life-saving.

Dealing with Shame: Overcoming the Internal Critic

Shame is another beast. During a manic-psychotic episode, I’ve said and done things that don’t feel like me. After the Mania fades, shame rushes in like a tidal wave. It’s an internal struggle, and I often can’t even remember what I did to cause this feeling. But I know that self-compassion and self-acceptance are the keys to surviving it.

I’ve had to remind myself that Bipolar disorder is a serious mood disorder that sometimes takes away my emotional control. Yes, I feel ashamed, but I also have to forgive myself. Learning to accept that this disorder is a part of me but doesn’t define me has helped ease the burden of shame.

Confronting Guilt and Moving Forward

Guilt, for me, is a little different than shame. Shame makes me feel like I am the problem, while guilt makes me feel responsible for the problems my actions caused. I’ve come to understand that while I can’t control having Bipolar disorder, I am responsible for managing it. And when I fall short—whether I miss medication or ignore self-care routines—I do feel guilty.

But staying stuck in guilt doesn’t help. I’ve lost people in my life because I wasn’t doing enough to take care of myself, and I’ve had to learn to forgive myself for those losses. Moving forward is about recognizing what I can do better next time and giving myself the space to grow.

Practical Coping Strategies for Anger, Shame, and Guilt

So, how do I manage these emotions? It’s taken years, but I’ve found some strategies that work. Breathing exercises, yoga, hiking, and aromatherapy are now part of my daily routine. These mindfulness techniques help ground me when my emotions are spiralling out of control.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has been another life-saver. CBT focuses on changing thought patterns, which helps me manage the negative emotions that can lead to anger or guilt. While I’ve heard good things about Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), which incorporates mindfulness, my experience has mostly been with CBT.

The Role of Family and Friends in Emotional Support

Having a support system is crucial. Emotional dysregulation can be hard to explain, but once I educated my loved ones about it, they became more understanding. It’s important to set boundaries and communicate when you're in the middle of an emotional episode. My family now knows that when I lash out during  Mania, it’s the disorder talking, not me.

Encouraging understanding and reducing stigma has strengthened my relationships and created a stronger support system that I can rely on.

Final Thoughts

Anger, shame, and guilt don’t have to define your experience with Bipolar disorder. By learning to understand these emotions and applying coping strategies, you can regain control and improve your mental health. Whether it’s mindfulness techniques, therapy, or leaning on your support system, there are ways to manage these intense feelings.

Remember, healing is a journey, and by facing these emotions head-on, you’re already taking a huge step forward. Anger, shame and guilt can be the byproduct of this disorder but they don’t have to be the lasting end product. We are more than our illness and deserve forgiveness and understanding when we make mistakes. Ready to take the next step? Talk to a mental health specialist to create a personalized strategy for managing anger, shame, and guilt.

Throughout my journey, I've learned that self-care is not an act of selfishness but rather a vital component of maintaining my well-being. The experiences I've had over the years have shaped my understanding of what self-care means for me and how it can help other women living with Bipolar I disorder. This article explores effective tools and strategies that can help you find balance, improve your mental wellness, and enhance your overall quality of life. Let’s dive into the empowering world of self-care, and for further insights, don’t forget to check out "How to Start Managing Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide."

Understanding Bipolar Disorder and Its Impact on Women

Bipolar disorder is characterized by significant mood swings, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows. For women, the effects of Bipolar disorder can be exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations, societal pressures, and various life transitions. My own experience has shown me how these factors can influence my mood and overall mental health.

In Canada, studies indicate that women are more likely to experience rapid cycling—where mood episodes occur more frequently—compared to men. This understanding became crucial for me as I navigated my own mood cycles. I noticed that during certain phases of my menstrual cycle, I would experience heightened anxiety and irritability. Understanding this connection allowed me to prepare for these times and adjust my self-care routine accordingly. Keeping a mood diary helped me track these fluctuations, providing invaluable insights into my mental health.

Moreover, societal pressures can create additional challenges. As women, we often juggle multiple roles—caregivers, professionals, friends—and this balancing act can feel daunting. There were times when I felt like I had to put on a brave face and pretend everything was fine, even when I was struggling inside. Acknowledging these feelings and understanding that it's okay not to have it all together has been an essential part of my journey.

The Role of Self-Care in Managing Bipolar Disorder

Self-care is often misunderstood. It’s not merely about indulgence; it’s about putting your mental health first amidst the unique challenges that come with experiencing mental illness. Daily life can be stressful, and triggers that lead to a mental health episode can lurk around every corner. When you’re living with Bipolar I disorder, managing potential triggers through daily self-care activities becomes essential.

Many people think self-care is limited to spa days or treating yourself to new clothes. While those can be forms of self-care, it's essential to delve deeper. Self-care encompasses a broad range of practices that prioritize mental and emotional well-being. For me, it has included everything from journaling to aromatherapy, and understanding my “why” has helped solidify my commitment to these practices.

The most common misconception about self-care is that it can be superficial. I’ve often heard people dismiss activities like getting a manicure or using a face mask as mere luxuries. However, these activities can serve a purpose in our wellness journey. For example, I find that personal grooming boosts my self-esteem during depressive episodes when my motivation to care for myself can diminish significantly. I’ve realized that maintaining a self-care routine tailored to my needs plays a crucial role in my mental health.

Essential Self-Care Tools and Strategies

Journaling

Journaling has been a vital self-care tool for me. Writing has been a passion since childhood, and it serves as an outlet for my thoughts and emotions. I use my journal to track my moods, reflect on my day, and explore my feelings. On difficult days, writing helps me process my emotions and gain clarity on my thoughts.

Through journaling, I have discovered patterns in my moods that I might otherwise overlook. For instance, I realized that my lows often correlate with significant life changes, such as transitioning jobs or navigating personal relationships. This awareness allows me to proactively address potential stressors and create a plan for coping.

Mindfulness,  Meditation and Spirituality

Practicing mindfulness and meditation has been transformative in my life. It allows me to ground myself during moments of anxiety and racing thoughts. On particularly overwhelming days, I take a few moments to focus on my breath, guiding my mind back to the present. Mindfulness techniques help me cultivate emotional regulation, providing a necessary anchor amidst the storm of my emotions.

I often find solace in guided meditation apps that offer specific exercises for managing anxiety and promoting relaxation. These practices have helped me find a sense of calm that I can carry with me throughout my day. Even just a few minutes of focused breathing can significantly shift my perspective and emotional state.I also engage in activities to fill my spiritual cup. I pray daily, listen to gospel music and attend church regularly. Spiritual practices may not be for you but it gives me a sense of community and keeps me grounded. It is important to know your personal goals and objectives when building your self-care tools and strategies. 

Physical Activity

Physical activity has also become a cornerstone of my self-care routine. Exercise plays a pivotal role in stabilizing my mood and enhancing my overall mental health. Research shows that regular physical activity can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, making it an essential component of my wellness journey. I’ve discovered that engaging in activities I enjoy—like dancing or hiking—makes it easier to stay committed to regular physical activity.

When I feel my energy levels drop or my mood starts to shift, going for a walk in nature or participating in a dance class can help lift my spirits. I appreciate the clarity that comes with physical movement, as it allows me to release pent-up emotions and refocus my mind.

Nutrition

Diet plays a significant role in my mental health. I’ve learned that what I put into my body can directly impact my mood and energy levels. Eating a balanced diet filled with whole foods has become a priority for me. I make it a point to nourish my body with nutrient-dense foods that support my overall well-being.

There were times when I succumbed to unhealthy eating habits, especially during depressive episodes. However, I recognized that these choices only exacerbated my symptoms. Now, I focus on incorporating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats into my meals. It’s a continuous journey, but one that empowers me to take control of my health.

Building a Supportive Environment

Creating a supportive environment is essential for effective self-care. Throughout my journey, I've learned the importance of surrounding myself with positive influences and understanding individuals who can support my mental health.

Choosing Your Support Network: It's crucial to select your support network carefully. I’ve had experiences where individuals in my life were more toxic than supportive. While they may have had good intentions, their lack of understanding about my mental health struggles often left me feeling misunderstood and isolated. I had to confront these relationships, and when necessary, let them go for the sake of my well-being.

Finding a Mental Health Mentor: Seeking guidance from someone who understands the mental health landscape can also be beneficial. I connected with a mental health mentor who had experience navigating the healthcare system but did not have a mental illness. This person helped me better articulate my needs and provided valuable insights into community resources and support groups. She provides me with daily support and acts as a sounding board when I deal with difficult issues surrounding my mental health journey. This is a mutually beneficial relationship based on support, personal growth, empathy and understanding.  

Open Communication: Communicating my needs to friends and family has been an ongoing learning experience. I've found that expressing my feelings and challenges fosters understanding and support. It’s important to articulate how loved ones can help during tough times, whether it’s checking in regularly or just being there to listen.

Professional Help: Finding the Right Therapist

While self-care is crucial, seeking professional help can significantly enhance your wellness journey. Finding a mental health professional experienced in Bipolar disorder can make a world of difference. I’ve learned that not all therapists are created equal, and it’s essential to find someone with whom you feel comfortable.

When searching for a therapist, consider their experience with Bipolar disorder specifically. I recommend asking questions during your first appointment to gauge their understanding of the condition. Therapy has been a valuable resource for me, providing a safe space to explore my thoughts and emotions.

In addition to therapy, exploring medication options has been a critical part of managing my Bipolar I disorder. I take mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, and having ongoing conversations with my healthcare provider has allowed me to tailor my treatment plan to my unique needs. The journey of finding the right balance can be challenging, but it’s essential for maintaining my well-being.

Creating a Personalized Self-Care Plan

Developing a personalized self-care plan is a vital step in managing Bipolar I disorder. This plan should reflect your lived experiences and needs. Here are some steps that have worked for me:

1. Know Your Why: Understanding the motivation behind your self-care routine is crucial. For me, it stems from a desire to prioritize my mental health and create a sense of stability amidst the chaos.
2. Do Your Research: If the concept of self-care feels overwhelming, seek input from those around you. Ask friends, family, and healthcare professionals what they do for self-care. However, be cautious not to overwhelm yourself with too many options.
3. Develop a Manageable Routine: Once you have an idea of what self-care means to you, start plotting out your daily or weekly activities. It's important to remember that self-care is a journey, and it's okay to take things one step at a time.
4. Think Outside the Box: Sometimes, pushing yourself to try new things can lead to valuable discoveries about your needs. I’ve found that engaging in activities outside my comfort zone has enriched my self-care routine.
5. Review and Revise: Your self-care plan should be flexible and adaptable to your changing needs. Regularly assess how your routine aligns with your mental health goals. If something isn't working, don’t hesitate to modify it.

Final Thoughts

Prioritizing self-care is essential for women living with Bipolar I disorder. It’s a journey that requires commitment, patience, and adaptability. As I reflect on my experiences, I recognize the importance of embracing tools and strategies that resonate with my unique needs.

By leveraging self-care practices, I have learned to navigate the ups and downs of my mental health journey with resilience. Understanding that I’m not alone in this struggle has empowered me to create a life that reflects my strengths and aspirations.

If you want to explore more about managing Bipolar disorder, I highly encourage you to check out "How to Start Managing Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide." Together, we can promote understanding and support for women living with bipolar disorder and empower each other to thrive.

Call to Action

If you found this article helpful, please share it with others who may benefit from these insights. Let’s work together to promote understanding and support for women living with bipolar disorder.