Bipolar Disorder & Racing Thoughts: 10 Techniques That'll Help!
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 19 ส.ค. 2019
- Racing Thoughts & Bipolar Disorder: 10 Techniques That'll Help!
To contact me directly and get answers to your questions, join us on Patreon: / polarwarriors
You're trying to go to sleep but there's a concert going on inside your head! It's like your thoughts are being driven by an over-caffeinated Nascar driver who's blasting the car stereo around the race track! If we try to ignore the driver, they just drive faster or turn the music up louder! It's almost like our mind giving us a giant middle finger when we tell it to shut up!
Maybe we're watching a show and have to rewind it every 5 minutes because we missed something, or reading a book and have to read the same damn page 10 times in order to absorb the information! Yeah... I've been there. Racing thoughts and Bipolar Disorder are almost synonymous. It's such a common symptom, but one of the hardest for many of us to manage well.
First off I want to say this. If you're - even aware that you're having racing thoughts in the first place, that's HUGE! Give yourself some serious credit for that. So many people have no idea what's going on. Their mind is being assaulted and they've gotten so used to it, or they just can't sleep or focus and don't know why. Becoming aware of racing thoughts is like a double edge sword though... Once you do become aware of it, the noise almost gets worse before it gets better. Just know that this is a normal part of becoming mindful. Let's just call it growing pains.
Today on Polar Warriors, I'd like to offer 10 simple tips for coping with racing thoughts. This video was requested by one of our Patrons Heather Griswold so thank you so much Heather! We're going to spend more time on the first technique because it's probably the most effective one long-term. There are so many ways to go about doing this, so I'll probably have more videos in the future that expand on this topic.
My channel is completely dedicated to helping individuals, families, and friends who struggle with, or know someone living with Bipolar Disorder. My goal is to provide actual tools, tips, and discuss topics that can potentially help “Polar Warriors” grow to live a more balanced, peaceful, and fulfilling life.
-Rob Whittaker, Polar Warriors: Bipolar Support
HELPFUL LINKS & ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
-Check out my Partner, The International Bipolar Foundation: www.ibpf.org/
*FACEBOOK: / polarwarriors
*BECOME A PATRON: / polarwarriors
I always cry when I watch these videos :( I wish I didnt but it just breaks my own heart that this is my life
Aww you're not alone. It's a very difficult disorder to have. It effects every aspects of who we are, what we want to be, where we've came from and why we have done the things we've done. It would be worse for me not knowing about my BP. Which i haven't always known. I have a chemical imbalance and it's extremely hard at times. I pray for help and for better days. I pray to help someone else having a crappy time. I try to remember what helps me to feel better. It has to ease up sometime. I hope you're ok and keep hanging in there. Look! We've made it this far.
Me too, but these are healing tears...
You're not alone in feeling that way. I am working on not looking at the big picture of things. Focus on small moments. All those add up. 💙
You are special, you are talented, stay strong
Me too :(
1. Meditate 2:20
2. Slow Mo Thinking 12:34
3. Progressive Muscle Relaxation 13:05
4. Cognitive Distancing 13:57
5. Thought Downloading 16:00
6. Give your racing mind a silly name 16:50
7. Leverage Vision 17:36
8. Listen to your racing thoughts from an imagined 3rd perspective without reacting to them 18:22
9. Schedule your worry times 19:27
10. Counseling and therapy for the intersection of your unique set of conditions 20:42
THX U ❗☺
tnx alot
🙏
thank you so much x
Amazing thanks
This is one of my worse symptoms! My mind won't shut up or slow down. All of the bad things that have ever happened to me in my life, come up to remind me. Over and over and over, my head is chattering these thoughts, one by one. It's unbearable. I always take a tranquilizer to sleep and that doesn't always help.
I have listened to youtube for ''subliminal messages to fall asleep'' and it, many times have helped me.
Rain, music, or a waterfall sound is in the back round--those are my favorites.
Breathing is very, very important, Taking a very deep breath and letting it out in small spurts can work wonders. Thanks for all of your help Robert; you really make a difference.
I feel exactly the same way you do queenofthe may, I also love the rain fall music videos & waterfall sounds on you-tube. It's so hard to shut off bad things that have happend to me also in my life. It's strange how they are always there & keep coming into my mind esp at night, before bed.Even tv programmes can bring back flashbacks in my past.The thing is its hard to put things out of your mind esp bad things, yet they are in the past & nothing anyone can do can change the past all a person can do is try to be positive & concentrate on the here & now & the future. All we can hope for is our futures will be better than the past. I find watching comedy's on tv (only fools & horses etc...) helps distract my mind on uk gold sky tv in the day. I have many hobbies : knitting, crochet & adult colouring books using felt tip pens, gel pens & glitter gel pens also pencils.You dont have to be artistic as its just colouring in whats printed inside. Once you start to colour the pictures your mind concentrates on what your doing, its very satisfiying & relaxing to do. They are called "Stress relief Art theropy colouring books" Most supermarkets sell the books & materials.Also Amazon sells packs of up to 50 glitter pens etc which are easy flowing & lovely to work with. Also listening to music through headphones & putting an eye mask cover on & lay down in bed in the dark. Just consentrate on the music (low) I find this helps me to get off to sleep as well as a sleeping pill & a mug of warm milk. Hope some of my advice to you helps & handy tips? Only just seen your comment tonight from 2 months ago, hope you are keeping well & safe in these difficult times? 🍪pocket in the uk Great Britain. 🐱
Yes totally the same but my therapist recently recommended that as that happens keep a journal or whatever you want to call it and write all those negative thoughts and experiences down. I call it a purge journal. He said as you write those down for at least three times they begin to retreat to the back of your mind and you are not bothered as much by them. I’ve done this and it actually has been working for me because in the past I was literally tormented by thousands of negative and hellish thoughts regularly. Good luck and God bless your soul!
Omg I do that aswell! I beat myself up for every bad decision or stupid thing that I’ve done!!
@@robinaalto7608 I can relate 1000%. I torment myself with memories of stupid things I've done all throughout my life. Even beginning with early childhood. I tried letting go and giving myself a break but it is persistent.
Put nice wall papers for your mobile.It helped me a lot
So helpful. I don't believe I am bipolar, I'm more BPD with narcissistic tendencies, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD ( child of 2 holocaust survivors).
Today, I planned a trip. It's in 14 days. I knew I'd be flipping out because I don't do well with anticipation--the whole lack of control shtick--and now, 4am, my thoughts are all over the place.
I smile at their endless, boundless energy: everything and anything that could happen, and I'm off to the races.
I practice CBT and DBT.
Your 10 steps are wonderful. I am already calmer. Thank you. 😊
Up at 1 am with racing thoughts and this came up as a recombination.
I been getting an HR or two sleep lately everyday bc of racing thoughts. Even with meds. I get very manic and hang out there awhile drives me crazy .
for some reason my racing thoughts always become very negative and dark
Mine to
Mine too
Only negative,
Me too
Me too. To the point where I can't sleep for work
I am 61 and some 30 years ago I was diagnosed with bipolar, but lived in denial. 3 more times I was diagnosed, the last time finally stuck and I'm starting to do better. I always thought my illness was me and not separate from me. I'm starting to learn to separate the 2 and feel better about accepting myself. I just want to say thank you so very much for all you do, you help so many. Hugs!
Hey there ! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. He is offering free support phone calls for all patrons right now. I think you may benefit from that. Take gentle care.
Sometimes we all need someone to talk to:
www.crisistextline.org/
teenlineonline.org/talk-now/
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
(H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds
On Patreon, you can message Rob directly, get a phone/video call, watch videos that are more personal in nature, and access a great community.
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
The easiest way to do your breathing during meditation is "SMELL THE ROSES & BLOW OUT THE CANDLES" so helpful 4 me so I know to breath in my nose & blow slowly out of my mouth :) very helpful 4 me....I hope this is helpful 4 U !
Thank you for that phrase! I have a tendency to hyperventilate when I get overstimulated, this will help me immensely! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
@@princessduress8109 U R so very welcome ;) I'm not sure who told me that BUT, when my DR. was always trying to tell me how to breath while meditating, I would be so worried if I was doing my breathing correct & getting all confused I couldn't even get to the relaxation part :(......until I heard this phrase !
Great saying, thank you for sharing!🤗
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
@@PolarWarriors U R welcome Rob. I can't remember where I read this. I thought maybe I heard it from U ??? But I thought I'd still put it as a comment since it's not in this particular video 4 people who might not have seen the video that " U " may have said this phrase ;)
When I’m Hypomanic I try to do ten things at once. It’s so distracting and hard to focus. Meditation and mindfulness really help with that. Then in depression my mind shuts down completely and I can’t do anything.I’m functioning well on a mood stabilizer now, an intensive outpatient program, therapy and monthly psychiatric appointments. I suffered for years without a diagnosis. Now I’m getting real help. It has saved my life!
Carolyn Jaynes Did you find an IOP for bipolar specifically?
Caitlin Fang - no, but there are others in the IOP who have the disorder. I found Gabapentin helped the most
Yes totally me thx
Bipolar disorder when you first have the racing thoughts mania can be a real horror show.
The racing negative ones come to mind. Especially when you unaware you have it.
My mania kept me so depressed I didn't want to live.
It feels like a spirit trying to take over your mind when you let the mania of racing thoughts go too far to me.
Luckily, my folks got me help and I was diagnosed with Bipolar disorder
Lithium helped me. Sleep is a must.
Having faith in a higher power also helped me. The vitamins B12 and B Complex also seemed to help with the mood swings.
Just knowing those racing thoughts are just part of being bipolar and not to fear them was a comfort.
So glad you posted this. You could be saving someone's life.
SOMEONE ALWAYS “dislikes” your videos before they could have even watched it. It’s like they just sit there waiting for you to upload so they can dislike it. The only way someone could dislike a video giving free information of this caliber is either really sick, or really jealous. Or really an idiot. Either way, it’s really weird. I clicked “like” by the way 😜
Steven Gallan they definitely should have watched this video. So good!!!! Their loss ;). Can’t please em’ all.
Steven Gallan , Gotta be idiots.
Someone who has a crappy attitude and can't get diagnosed as bipolar or etc and only selfish.
Ha! Thanks so much for the support guys! 🤗
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
I love that profile pic. Where did you find it?
You've made it really easy to understand my BP family member. Thank you Robert. Bless you for sharing and putting so much work into your videos
Thank you dear Noora for taking the time to learn to understand !!! Love.
@@margrietbrandsma000 For real tho.
Bird watching is my mindfulness meditation, at the zoo where I volunteer,lol
Wow! Sounds heavenly🙏
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Awesome
went for years struggling sleep night terror stop taking medication now back on it music very helpful dont drink anymore very helpful still get raceing thoughts
As a recently diagnosed "Polar Warrior" I must say how useful I'm finding your videos as a way to better understand my condition, and would like to thank you for all the effort and dedication you put into each video.
Really good stuff! I can relate to all. Good management tools! I’ve always called mine “tornado brain”, maybe cos I live in Oklahoma! 😂. Also when it comes to intrusive thoughts, I like the idea that a bird may land on your head, but you don’t have to let it build a nest there!
Tornado brain..... lol, I love that. Man I put a birdhouse up there for the bird..... gotta fix that.
The level of validation in every single one of your videos… 💜
A few months ago, I was tested on my extreme episode of what I now know to be anxiety and depression. I initially scored what I remember to be a 24/27 on the depression scale, and 19/21 on the anxiety scale. I now take an antidepressant daily, and an anti-anxiety dose twice daily. I see my therapist about monthly, though it doesn't seem to be helping because I keep to myself so much. I also see my psychiatrist about monthly to get dose increases or checks on my medicine. I'm currently 15, but this has been going on for a long time... it was only until this year that I got treatment, and I'm still suffering so much... I've never genuinely been suicidal, but there was a point where this did bring me to the thought process where that seemed to be a way out. I don't want to live like this. My mind latches itself onto worries which my mind prioritizes... it doesn't matter what it is, if I don't like it or if I'm unsure about something, I can't stop obsessing over it until I fully confirm and cancel out the worry. It is difficult to find people who know how I'm suffering.. Of course, yes, I know people with anxiety even worse than mine, but nobody completely understands no matter how thoroughly I explain my thoughts. I feel alone. I have help, but I need help. I don't know what to do anymore. I may not be bipolar, but my thoughts are constantly racing. I'm tired. I'm so damn tired.
Hey there taurus! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. He's doing free support calls for patreons this holiday season. I think you may benefit from that. Take gentle care.
Sometimes we all need someone to talk to:
www.crisistextline.org/
teenlineonline.org/talk-now/
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
(H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds
On Patreon, you can message Rob directly, get a phone/video call, watch videos that are more personal in nature, and access a great community.
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Have you ever recovered? Going through this right now.
My manic name has been Earl for a few years. I always tell my wife “Earl’s here” when I have mania and racing thoughts.
A way to communicate problems with a partner without disagreements, argument and things.Refer mostly to married couples.
Uh oh lol.... Mine is Raquel. When she's out, run!!! Fast!!!
Where's your list earl?
Is this a recommended method to deal with it? It sounds like it can cause a splut personality...🤔
Hm, I guess mine is Jacob, whereas my normal name is Jake. Never thought about it like that, but that’s how it goes for me. When I’m manic I refer to myself differently.
And I’ve got type 1...
Anyone else got a messiah complex?
I'm finding it really difficult to deal with my hypomania tonight. I just started a new job yesterday and I have to be up in 3 hours to get ready. Big life changes like this always destabilize me. Not only has my usual sleep schedule been disrupted, but I'm incredibly paranoid about the prospect of making a bad first impression. It's like a microphone feeding back into a speaker. The thoughts just keep echoing until it becomes a distorted scheech. I can't sleep because my thoughts are racing and my thoughts are racing because I can't sleep.
One thing I find oddly comforting is to imagine how I would treat myself if I was a friend having a bad acid trip. I wouldn't judge them or feed into their negative perceptions. I would try to comfort them and remind them that what they're feeling is temporary.
Thanks, good luck
Thank you SO MUCH for not having annoying and disempowering ads selling stuff as people are just trying to get healthy!
I appreciate you!!! ❤
Oh those racing thoughts ! I had trouble staying focused during the video. Lots of great ideas. Now if I could just get my scrambled marbles still long enough to practice these techniques. Thanks again Rob !!
Hahaha. Same here.. I could not focus watching this video and sometimes not noticing I am not really listening to it since my mind is thinking other things. Sometimes I am unaware of it, then when I realize I lost track, I will listen but my mind is going out again. I am in mania state now, can't sleep and eat properly.. because I have so many things in mind.
Lmao...I had to reply 4x!!
Replay...see..not focused..omg
Great video great to listen to someone who experiences exactly what I go through daily.
I wish I could have known that this channel existed, it is so empowering and encouraging in so many ways, I can't thank you enough for doing this. Please never stop making these videos, we need heros like you.
Hi, Rob offers one on one support on Patreon if you are interested. He also posts more personal information about his day to day struggles. All patrons can contact him directly by private message and he frequently offers free phone calls!!! If you decide to join, you can mention my name and he will give you a free call. Another Patreon exclusive is Rob hosting and moderating weekly support groups on discord! We have many family and friends take part. Take gentle care! 🙏
Sometimes we all need someone to talk to:
www.crisistextline.org/
teenlineonline.org/talk-now/
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
(H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Wow man!!! I am speechless. You understood all the symptoms that i was experiencing. And at the end “Dedicated to: Mum” really put me into thinking about my mum.
You are great, and i have to say this video changed my life
Wow! Thank you so much for those words. It really means a lot to me today. A very warm welcome to the channel and I hope you’ll stop by again!
Very Insightful Robert, i don't sleep very much 4, 5 hours is enough for me, and it's usually at night.I usually have a thought & i flog it to death, sometimes for a week or more.
Many Thanks, Jacinta.
Totally me yes
I do "walking meditation"too..strolls in nature, being aware of God and nature in the present moment...noticing pleasant things, like flowers, trees, etc.
Great idea. I always enjoy Gods beautiful creations.
That is such a wonderful suggestion! There is something so healing being out observing and enjoying nature! The color, the sounds, even the terrain under our feet. Thank you so much for the reminder!🤗🙏🌞
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
And also prayer
I do this often
Yes try getting in flow state through exercise or sports
Yeah! I have racing thoughts and anxiety attacks it sparks up and lasts all day and for some reason it won't go away i feel broken mentally and I feel like I can't even get past my own self doubts and regrets
Hi Freakout! Unfortunately us bipolar folk seem to all be baptized by fire. I think it makes us strong as heck. Please be kind to yourself, you did the best you could with what you had. Consider getting involved with the mental health community in your area, support groups etc. You are NOT alone, there are some things that only WE can truly understand. Thank you for sharing your story! That being said I really think you should contact a doctor and get a med change or adjustment. If you need someone to talk to right away please text these guys
www.crisistextline.org/
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
(H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds
Rob:
I really need your help to keep a good thing going here... PLEASE consider supporting Polar Warriors work on Patreon. Even just $1 a month makes a huge difference. Thank you so much
@@PolarWarriors I appreciate the words of support and i plan to do more about it. this has recently gotten worse and its making it hard to manage but I have a new appointment this week for it and am setting up some psychiatric help as well
My thoughts spiral when something bad happens too.. Worst case of worst case scenerios! 😅
I'm going to try these methods. I'm already working on negative thinking errors with my counselor.
I also benefit from scribbling my negative thoughts on paper to get them out of my head (I usually HAVE to burn the paper though, because it's not something that anyone should read). I'm glad you included it. 😊
My racing brain is now Jerry Miculek (the speed shooter). I'm going to make him miss for once. 😂
I'm very impressed by your articulation, analogies, conciseness, supportive attitude, etc. Thank you, friend 🤗
Thank you kindly! 🙏❤️
When I’ve experienced extreme hurt by people that are family or who I thought were friends, those are situations that are very difficult to stop thinking about. When I distance myself from these people, over time the racing thoughts disappear. Unfortunately, any trigger of the hurtful past will bring back those memories and there I go again. I can even feel the stress returning. I have to stop the thoughts for my health. Sometimes, I only allow myself a certain length of time to relive the pain and then try to move on. It doesn’t always work though. But I’ll keep trying.
I’m glad you mentioned the tightness of the shoulders. I’ve experienced this so long now I can’t remember when my shoulders were able to just relax.
For years now, in order for me to sleep I HAVE to listen to a show that I’m in to and that is stories about murder mysteries. I only like the ones that are solved. I realize this is creepy, but it works for me. I’ll listen to music when I’m walking. These techniques work for me. But we cannot forget the power of prayer!
I totally agree especially about the family situation. I come from a family of seven (7) siblings me being the youngest at 58 years. My Dad died 26yrs ago & Mum 8yrs ago rip to both. My siblings made my life hell a & took advantage of my good nature etc.... They all have issues yet they are always in the right!!! I've compleatly distanced myself from them all & even blocked their telephone numbers getting through to me. This way they can't hurt me on the phone anymore & I've returned post to two of them. They have now finally got the message after four (4) years. My health & wellbeing was being badly affected by having contact with certain siblings, they all know I've had bi polar disorder since 18years of age I wasn't fully diagnosed til my early 30s, now I'm (58) I've been in a good relationship with my partner for 18yrs, he's very supportive & caring towards me & makes me happy. None of my siblings had a good word to say about him, always calling people no matter who they are.Even though half are divorced themselves, I can't tell ya the stunts that were pulled on me. It's too long to write in a comment, I could write a book!!! Anyway best thing I ever did was to break away from my family members they made my illness worse by setting my triggers off & having racing thoughts & constantly thinking of what was done to me by them. I live a good distance from them & know I'll never want to have them in my life again, One brother lives in Germany the worst bad apple of the lot. On me taking an overdose not long after my dear Dad died in 1994 my so called brother said to one of my sisters "It's a pity she didn't take enough to finish the job proper" I'd also had a partner I was living with at the time walk out on me.I was in a bad place & did not cope well at the time. This was the one & only time I've ever self harmed. It's hard to come from a disfuntional family, I'm the one with the mental illness yet I know I'm a lot stronger for cutting them out of my life, My tablets about to crash must end. Keep safe & well in these uncertain times, 🍪pocket Great Britain.
@@biscuitpocket7283 Your short passage resonates so heavily with me and my life. Thank you for sharing and giving me a little bit more strength to let go of the pain caused by family and friends.
Your speaking ability and vocals is excellent , you made me believe that i can recover.
🙏❤️
Wow. This video came out just when I needed it. I’m having trouble falling asleep because I can’t stop the thoughts racing in my mind.
I think, your advice is really helpful for people without a bipolar diagnosis, too. I guess also healthy persons can experience short episodes with light "symptoms" like racing thoughts from time to time, due to life circumstances. So, thank you very much 😊!
Yes so true ❤❤
It seems like some of these techniques would be beneficial for a so-called normal mind having a bad time or negative thought processes
Really great ! I had this problem everytime and caused extreme mood swings for my hyperactive mind . These points helped me . Thanks a ton !
Glad it helped!
The best way to go to sleep is to put something on youtube that's a few hours long , maybe an audio book or a documentary etc.
...for me I put it on rest my head on the pillow and listen to what's being said. Most of the time I'm asleep within 1 minute - 5 minutes......while listening to something you enjoy the mind forgets it can't sleep and goes to sleep.😊
Friend, I'm from Brazil. I was diagnosed bipolar almost 10 years ago. I'd like to offer myself to translate your videos to Brazilian Portuguese. I want to show your channel to friends, family and therapists from here. How can we go about it?
Thanks!
Sincerely,
Eduardo.
I woud like the same, but traslate to spanish.
Thank you.
I hate how indecisive I am and my mind just can’t decide on anything because it changes how I feel so often what I like and what I don’t also I’m reckless generally with choices.
Well glad I've came across your video during difficult times. It's crazy how life throw you a big curve ball that no one can fully understand besides yourself. Be strong everyone!!!!!
Hey, Robert! Thank you so much for this channel! It's one thing to hear professionals describe the experience--they often come across as aloof and out of touch, no matter how well intentioned. It's one thing to hear family members and close friends of the person describe the experience--it can be reassuring to see how sympathetic the people around you can be to the disorder. But it's another thing entirely to hear from other people who are on the spectrum.
Thank you so much for watching and for the kind words🙏
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
You are an angel for making this channel. You gave me answers that have given me peace to questions that have tormented me for years. Bless you.
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO, YOU HAVE BEEN MY MAJOR SOURCE OF HELP WITH MY BIPOLAR 1, YOU COVER EVERY AREA THAT i HAVE HAD DIFFICULTY, ESPECIALLY WITH MY RELATIONSHIPS, I AM SO GRATEFUL TO YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
I really appreciate what you say. You are a very nice person, and want to help other people. I suffered with insomnia most of my life, and I followed some of your advices, and , so far, I had succeeded, to have good sleep for many hours, instead of only 2-5 hours.Thank you, for your good work. , and have a happy life.
Hi Xenia! Thank you for reaching out and sharing your story! Rob is only available on Patreon. That being said, I am so glad that you have connected with the material! As a person with Bipolar myself, I have found peer support is an important component for my own recovery. Perhaps when these weird times are over, you can perhaps reach out to the mental health community in your area, you can participate as well as volunteer. I'm sure you have so much to offer to your peers! You are not alone!
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
(H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds
Rob:
I really need your help to keep a good thing going here... PLEASE consider supporting Polar Warriors work on Patreon. Even just $1 a month makes a huge difference. Thank you so much
Thank you SOOO much brother. I have so much to say, so much thanks I can’t express it now. I’m in a depressive episode following 2 weeks of hypo mania. I just started Lamictal and 2 weeks ago and I’m only up to 35 mg at this point. My shrink says it could take as much as reaching a dose of 150mg or more before I see results.
I thought it was really helping and maybe I wouldn’t need to take more. I’ve been so attentive and focused and what I thought was “balanced” in these past couple weeks but out of nowhere I just started having anxiety today.
No known or at least obvious trigger just nasty anxiety. Then I started crying out of nowhere at work.
I’ve struggled with meditation for YEARS; like 30 yrs dude with little success. It funny because I’ve been intuitively practicing much of the things you’re mentioning here. I call it “working meditation.”
I work with my hands doing hvac troubleshooting and maintence work/construction.
I’ve found that meditating on every single action; feeling the texture of the rubber grips on my pliers as I take a nut off of a bolt and the friction of these two parts as I remove the nut for example.
Zen Buddhists have long practiced “walking meditation.”
(I’m sure you’ve seen the zen gardens where they walk along labyrinth like paths).
I’ve been doing step meditation. My apartment is on the 3 floor, plus I’m up and down stairs all day.
My default mode is to rush up and down due to the stress and demands of my job.
However, and ironically, when I slow down and focus on each step, the sensations in my feet and the texture of the stairs and handrails, it calms me down. And then, again, ironically, I find I get more done in less time lol because I’m more in a present state.
Any thanks again for your content my friend. You are a god-send and appreciate you more than I can express. You’ve be an integral part of my accepting and copping with my B-2 diagnosis that I’ve been living with unknowingly for 40 years. Much of them a living hell.
I’m seeing light at the end of the tunnel now.
All the best. ✌🏻
Mitchell.
Thank you! I’ve been trying to find different ways to cope with my racing thoughts. It’s like leaving your car on and you can’t turn off the engine. That’s how I view it as. But, I just wanted to thank you for providing a few ways that I can improve on by using different methods and techniques. Keep if the good work and spreading awareness for Bipolar Disorder 😊💚.
Hey there desiraye! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. He is offering free support phone calls for all patrons right now. I think you may benefit from that. Take gentle care.
Sometimes we all need someone to talk to:
www.crisistextline.org/
teenlineonline.org/talk-now/
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
(H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds
On Patreon, you can message Rob directly, get a phone/video call, watch videos that are more personal in nature, and access a great community.
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
@@PolarWarriors thank you!
I honestly have never connected my gaming with my BPD. sure my anxiety (having control of how and when I communicate, as well as communicating through text being MUCH easier than in person) and depression (being able to get lost and distract myself in a beautiful world), but I have never, not once in my life, thought of this perspective, thank you. also this video makes me realize just how hard I have been on myself, jeeez.
just the other night I was laying in bed and my partner is a few years older than me, and one of my worst racing thoughts is the realization that he will probably die before me, and how that will effect me, how will I cope, etc, the thoughts just start POURING. it combines loss and death to such an extreme and it. is. awful. I almost always cry, and have to tell myself that its ok to release that, but that I need 1.) a hug lol and 2.) to enjoy the time I DO have, to live in the present.
so I did that.. but then I got up and got on a game. baby steps.. can definitely identify, can sometimes recover, but can work harder on it instead of defaulting to something that will lead to stagnation, which is like, BIG fear. I don't want to be complacent in my own suffering. I also very much appreciate how much emphasis you put on self reflection, because it's been the best tool for me personally.
I feel your intense fear and pain. I've felt this exact way wayyyy too many times
@@shaniecegullison happy to say im in a much better state of mind nowadays
@@Laughingwithtravii that's awesome
The real problem for me was the fact that any thought, even the most quick and superficial, instantly lead to many other ones that I couldn't keep track of. So you try to "stock" them for later until they are so many I just can't rely on myself being able to cope with them. Then I had to remember all of them before I could start relaxing again. It was a nightmare...
Same here did get rid of it??
@@Vijay-uk3ci Yes, at least 90% of it thanks to medication 👍🏼
Thank you soo much. This is what helped me. Awareness. Understanding what "mind" is and that its not just thoughts !!! We are more then that, we can observe them. In learning to just observe and not "intervene", but just let it be and recognize it : it changes ! It changes because the thoughts lose their grip, they are still there but they begin to loose their disturbing 'quality'.It is just a deep relief once we learn to just let our thoughts go and begin to accept that they are just there, without their disturbing influence. Its so beautiful that you are taking this forward !!!
Wow! What a great comment! It reminds me of the teachings of Eckhart Tolle. Looking at our thoughts as an outside observer. 🙏
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
I laughed when you said give your thoughts a name, I named my depression Gertrude so I have something to laugh about because I find saying Gertrude right funny. I’m sorry to all the gertrudes out there, but I just love that name.
Omg!! I am always naming stuff Gertrude lol.... Way too funny 😊😊
Great name...I gotta come up with one..George? My nickname in Jr high...Whats your name? Just call me George!! Lol
I am amazed at how well you can explain this bipolar situation; I am 66 years old and still have no real handle on my control of these moods. Thanks for being here so well representing.of a troubling situation...
From Eragon?
Needed this tonight! Have been crossing my fingers for a new video from you and this is exactly what I needed for what’s going on right now in my life. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Awe thank YOU! 🙏
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
I have ADD and this definitely applies. Great video thanks for speaking clear and your candidness. I do a lot of journaling or as I call it brain dumping or purge writing. It helps tremendously and gives me a lot of release.
I've started scheduling "worry" time. Glad to know that's ok. 🙂
Literally while watching this I kept getting incredibly distracted and had to keep rewinding. Lol I haven't meditated for awhile, perhaps that's a sign that I should 😂 Anyways, great video as always! I made sure to give it a "like" 🙂
And reading through the comments while listening 🤣
These tips are great! On a nutritional note, I’ve found the supplement “choline” is the only thing that quiets my racing thoughts, especially before bed. I always make sure i’m stocked up and never run out
Thank u. I'm on keto diet and has helped.
is there a specific brand of choline you use to help w the racing thoughts?
I never even thought about journaling. It's so simple, but it really is a great idea. Thank you.
I find it very helpful because I usually notice when something is wrong about my thinking..but instead of doing something about it I end up beating myself for that and feeling even worse.. for me it's a real suffer because I'm at uni doing tests and exams all the year so I try to study and racing thoughts are hitting so strong and I end up having no idea what I'm doing.. it's like trying to study on that rollercoaster up in the video😂.. I mean I was distracted at least 5 times when I'm typing this comment 😅
Thanks for your videos they make me smile at my worst they have so much positive energy and you have a good sence of humor too
Thanks for the video my friend! Always a pleasure to give an idea! 😘😘😘😘
Great Videos ❤️. Also, sometimes, a simple technique of counting can help racing thoughts. Just like when you were a child the technique of counting could help calm you down from being angry, this same simple technique can be used to manage racing thoughts. If you’re very visual, you can picture each number written out as you count. This can be even more effective. I have use this technique often when I’m trying to quite my mind when I’m trying to go to sleep at night. But, it also works with racing thoughts. The counting, the imagery, the numbers written out in words, and even what color and shape you choose to see the words. You can have the word fading in then back out or perhaps you can have them start further away and get closer. Either way using multiple techniques to focus on one thing can really bring your scattered brain back into focus.
Thank you for this video. Thank you for saying I've at least accomplished acknowledging my racing thoughts. I've tried soo many techniques. Most recently white noise machine. Listen8ng to the hum of a fan. Static from the radio. Sometimes all at the same time. But sometimes all you can do is ride it out. Like when a song gets stuck in my head. I give in and listen to the song even. If it means 20 min straight. Listening to my thoughts is like a rewinding and fast forwarding a film. Sometimes it skips pauses and repeats and sometimes the volume is way to loud... Most important to ALWAYS remember the racing thoughts is temporary. Even if it's a few minutes or every night for weeks. It's not 4ever although it truly feels endless.
I'm grateful that I came across this amazing channel to get more insight into these techniques and to help more people. You are doing a great job! I wish you more success on your journey! ☺️🙌🏾
Thanks for all your videos they have helped me a lot in recognizing and dealing with my own issues.
That's so awesome to hear🤗
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
This was very enlightening. Awesome that your here!
Vipassana meditation was a great tool in my belt. Even so the biggest impact for me came from finding the 'right' meds. That morning they kicked in I was sitting and no racing thoughts and I was so moved by actually having some sense of stillness.
which medication ? Can u name pls? Do u take lithium ?
@@nidhie3039 Hey hey :) I've been through a few, but the one that worked for me was Quetiapine (Often sold as Seroquel). Lithium didn't really work out anywhere near as well for me.
@@stevespain6445 thanks alot..yes lithium has plenty of side effects too..I'll visit the doctor soon it's been 2 years of bipolar 1 ..I can't fight it anymore I need right meds too ...hope u recover soon and get free from symptoms.
@@nidhie3039 watch your breathe
Listen osho
@@sukhjindersingh6982 thanks ....where can I get osho link .
I'm sure you hear things like this all the time... but your videos have not only given me hope, but helped me and my fiance through some rough times caused by my BPD. The strength it must take to maintain a positive outlook not only personally but to channel your energy to help others suffering is a beautiful gift and I truly admire your strength and resilience as I know all too well what a battle BPD can be sometimes. I just wanted to reach out and say thank you...And also from one polar warrior to another....well done.. To fight such an uphill battle and find a way through that to bring positivity to those that need it most... I'm sure you have saved more lives than you are aware...Someone get this man an award!
Oh man i feel so relaxed hearing my problemes from
another person.. I am tired just trying to explain everything and really no one understand
Loved your video! I suffer from BP1 and had a manic episode in feb that lasted until late April. In my case I experienced psychotic raising thoughts, would you make a video about psychosis during manic and depressive episodes? (I actually had these in my first severe depression) all of them were related to being prosecuted, chased or wanted by the police, as if I was doing something illegal. I even had during manía a psychotic episode that raised so fast in a matter of seconds when I read a news article about a murder, I immediately thought someone would try to kill me if I spoke to the media, rushed to the bathroom, locked my door and contacted my doctor and family to calm down, I could not breathe and I was literally terrified (shaking and crying and my body temperature dropped) that I thought that the steps of a woman outside the bathroom were those of a spy that was going to find me and she was going to tell everything about me. Crazy!!!! The trigger was that “murder” word and my employer’s name in that article (yes I was at work!!!) Eventually I calmed down but it was because a part of me knew that was part of my illness. Anyways psychosis is really dangerous and it can drive someone to literally hurt themselves in order to scape from those ugly thoughts.
Sorry for the long post, would love to see a video about psychosis.
Thank you and your channel is one of my favorites!
Thank you for this video I always love watching. You've helped me more than I can actually say and I won't forget
Excellent suggestions! Thank you.
Thank you so much for all of these videos, Rob! You have no idea how much you've helped me to understand more about bipolar disorder. You're awesome!
All I can say is thank you for all the videos you have made. You've helped me tremendously, and you help me to understand more about myself and my symptoms. And how to handle them in the appropriate manner, again, I want to thank you.
Man you just explained so much things i have in my mind.
thank you for your account, you help me and relate to me more than anyone. really thankful for your presence and opening up!
youre videos are rich like dark chocolate, i have to nibble and pause and think....my mind chases the explanation of itself. LOL!! " Most are content sitting on a boat all day fishing, we have to do much more extreme things than that " OMG!! genius
Thank you so much! Your comment made my day🤗🙏🌞🌞🌞
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Thank you Robert for this video! Even though I have not been diagnosed with BiPolar disorder, I have severe mood fluctuations as a symptom of depression and your videos have still helped me immensely. I also deal with racing thoughts, so this video will also help me a bunch.
Thank you for what you do!
- Shea
xoxoxo
Thank you Rob for yet another wonderful video. You've helped me so much, the way you explain things in terms people can understand. Hope you continue with your work on line as it's helping myself & so many others world wide.... Take care & be safe in these uncertain times 🍪pocket Great Britain.
This is great and you are awesome. I am so grateful to have found this video you made.
Thank you for making videos I watched just about every one of them at least here on TH-cam. Very good information and useful. I even share some on Facebook occasionally for some of my friends with bipolar and other similar conditions.
Brilliant! Love your channel. So glad I found it. You are helping me understand myself and recent diagnosis. I'm 6 months into my journey now 🙏🙏
Thanks for the insight...I needed it!❤️
Often when my mind races, I hear music. It isn’t music I know, it is full orchestral, drumming, operatic, multi choirs. It is fragmented and distant. When I am like that, I find I can hum along with it. Often tunelessly. Sometimes if I drum along or dance that helps. Or I can lie down and relax and do exercise like Pilates whilst I listen to the music in my head and appreciate the interplay.
I can’t handle worry. I get overwhelmed. That is harder for me.
Thanks. So happy I found your channel.
Thank you soooo much ROB W. Your channel content and advice has been really reassuring.
This particular video is like a gold mine. Ive alredy been practicing some of the tips you've said and will try some of the others too.
Thanx again.
More Love and Blessings to you and all of us POLAR WARRIORS!💪💓🌦
Thank you. your videos. Make me feel I'm not alone.thank you so much.
Amazingly Informative Video!! Thank You for sharing!!💯💓
this is really reassuring considering my thoughts makes me question my whole sanity, i know thoughts are just thoughts but yeah this bloop mind wont accept that. I guess it really takes time and determination. Thank you for making this videos, so glad to find this channel :)
Thank you thank you so much for this video. I really needed this my mind can never shut up it's always thinking and it's always bad stuff. I'm most definitely going to try these new techniques hopefully I can calm it down a little. Sending you positive vibes from Seattle 😊
Thanks! I'm sending you positive vibes back from sunny California 🌞🌞🌞
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Thanks for so many advise and info for bipolar disorder.i just know myself got bipolar and suffering with bipolar disorder when it turn so worse....I hope can solve this problem, people around me like don't understand and confusing with me and what is bipolar....but what I been through is not easy and hurt....
I just found this channel! I am blown away at how helpful it was, is, and will continue to be! I suffer with bipolar, addiction, anger, depression, anxiety etc. Barely anyone in my "outside" life notices anything related to these horrific facets of my being. I'm already feeling more hopeful and understood after just an hour of Polar Warriors videos...lifesaving feelings being had! Thank you❤
Hi, Rob offers one on one support on Patreon if you are interested. He also posts more personal information about his day to day struggles like his recent hospital stay. For the month of July he is offering free phone calls to patrons. Another Patreon exclusive is Rob hosting and moderating weekly support groups on discord! Take gentle care! 🙏
Sometimes we all need someone to talk to:
www.crisistextline.org/
teenlineonline.org/talk-now/
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
(H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Thank you for doing these videos. It’s helped so much. I also send them to my kids and boyfriend. It’s helped them to understand what I’m going through. I also have a daughter that is bipolar and it’s helped her so much. Keep it up
Really helpful video. I love how much this channel has helped me. =)
Just found your channel. I'm finding it really helpful. Thanks!
Thank you for watching!
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
I would have never considered using or giving videos like this a chance when I was younger but at the point where you are desperate to find help for issues like this it becomes very good to get the tips he spoke of, normally I would doubt it before trying it but my mind has become completely in everyway my worse enemy and I am opened to any help I can get. I often look for someone else to blame for my thoughts but most of the time it's only easier to blame other than accepting.
Thank you so much for sharing these techniques. They really do work.
Yeah when I’m driving and get to my destination I don’t even remember how I even got there it’s like I blink and I’m just there. Anyone else ?
Indeed. I experience this too. Scary stuff.
Yes. Driving is that way for me, but riding my motorcycle isnt.
Me too. Sometimes I lay in bed and think how was I able to drive to work, it just seams so "unreal" to me that I'm able to do it... Haha
Totally yes
Always, it’s almost like a fog, like it didn’t happen and I just popped up in my destination without remembering how I actually got there
Thanks for the video! I may have had to rewind it several times 😆
Racing thoughts effect mood and mood affects personality 😲
Thank You! Simply put
The video is on point and amazing as always.
Yay, thank you!
Yay, thank you!
Another thing that helped me a lot is simply talking to close friends or family.
When I suffered of racing thoughts I was in a downwards spiral where these thoughts became so absurd that I became incredibly paranoid and increasingly detached from reality. I know it’s hard, but talking about it with someone else can really give you a “reality check” and you might remind that it’s just all in your head and that you don’t need to worry so much.
Unfortunately, not everyone has the privilege to know a person that you are close enough with to share you mental health problems with. But if you do, it’s really worth trying.
Great comment! I totally agree!
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Just came across your channel.
Wow. ...that's all I have to say really. You've helped me.
All the best & thanks .
Best regards from Scotland.
Really great video man. Thank you ❤️.