The worst part about bipolar type 2 is because of the lack of consistency in mood you don’t consistently perform in all aspects of your life. Career, relationships, hobbies, hygiene etc. Life passes you by.
And because of this I don't know how to answer a question like: "Do you behave differently than usual?" What does "usual" mean??? It changes frequently...
@@marion.saturn I recently started taking some new medication that has been really helping me. Plus I’ve started incorporating meditation into my days. My highs aren’t as high and my lows aren’t so low. I’ve also been slowly adding back in things like eating and sleeping consistently, proper management of hygiene, cleaning everyday… because of all of this combined, I now have a functioning baseline. I can say what is essentially the usual. Just thought I’d let you know how all of these things have begun to help me… so you know that it is possible to be whole again. So you know there is hope. The most important thing when it comes to bipolar is ruthlessly managing your sleep. It’s not fun, but too little sleep can have major impacts on your mood.
Hi Greg, I know this was awhile ago. I hope your better. With depression, anything over two weeks becomes an episode and requires a med change or adjustment. Please don't suffer longer than you have to. Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member 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 so much. Diagnosed three weeks ago and the medication is changing my life. My husband thinks he has a new wife. I never could function until late evening. The past week I’ve been up at 5:30 every morning and out for an hour walk. It’s a miracle. I pray this lasts. I’m 70 years old next month. My heart aches for the years lost and the heartache I’ve caused myself and others. I feel hope for the first time in absolute years and years.
Awww thank you so much for sharing your story. You are on a beautiful path my friend 🙏❤🌞🌞 - Rob For additional content consider joining us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
So happy for you; better late then never... I was over 40 when i got diagnosed right. I believe things happen when they suppose to happen! God Bless you!! 💜🙏🏻🕊
I always thought that my hypo-mania me was who I really was. I always thought that I was this indestructible guy that could easily work 16 hours a day with a smile on my face.. But I guess it is so easy to forget how low you where when you suddenly are up again. When I think back now it all makes sense. But that doesn't make you happier realizing you are not as good and strong as you always thought. My doctor said: Now you have to be normal and boring just like the rest of us ;-) That helped a bit actually.
But at the other hand.. It WAS actually you that did all these great things. No one can take that away from you. Only reason I think I need treatment now is that the disorder has developed much more now as to 10-20 years ago. So now we need to do something about it. But the past is something we did all on our own without even knowing we had any disorder. So that was us as we where. Hang in there. I heard many say the symptoms get less when you get a bit older like past 50 or something. We might have a long life ahead of us after that ;-)
Took till I was in my 40s until I got a bipolar 2 diagnosis. The hypomania I always felt was just me being awesome and how I should be all the time.. the long depressions were just me failing... I've realised that this isn't the case and in retrospect my manic times often lead to stupid risky choices. Thanks for making these videos.
Yep, I can relate to the feeling of awesomeness and thinking it's how I should be. I'm on a 6 out of 10 mood right now and I wish I could stay this way forever. Unfortunately it will probably change soon, to either full hypomania or depression.
Yup, that's exactly right. It took me so long to figure out that I was actually bipolar and not just a complete failure. I would get so much done during my hypomanic episodes just to destroy it a few months later when Id hit a depressive episode. And that was basically the cycle of my entire life. The only thing that kind of sucks now that I'm on medication is that my hypomanic episodes felt like the only times in my life that I was actually happy. So now I just feel kind of like meh all the time. But I also don't hit depressions so low that I can't work or even leave my house for a month. So I guess u gotta just take the win where u can get it.
The last time I battled a hypo manic episode was May of this year (2019) . Obsessive ruminating of every negative experience I could remember- going back 20+ years. Self loathing, anger at every person in my life. Energy to talk fast and derogatory about everything and everyone. Yada, Yada, Yada! I made enemies and lost family members ability to be around me! Then I dropped down into the pit. ( My description of depression) I am trying now to develop a posse. People who can understand and support me in this journey. Difficult group to gather! Send me good thoughts! Thanks , Rob. I wish all Warriors wellness and Peace of mind .
Hi! I had to form my own support system so I can totally relate. One unexpected person is my pharmacist. He's amazing and explained Bipolar and treatments, he knows and remembers me, I talk to him a lot. My support system is small but it's really good. Sometimes we are so disappointed because we think a certain person or people should automatically be your support system but a lot of people just can't and that's okay. There are many times I am struggling and can't help others. We have a really great community on Patreon if your interested. Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member 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
I have bipolar 2. My family shunned me for it. My friends say I am a downer. And my coworkers mock me for having it. I got diagnosed at the age of 20 I am now 33. I am happy I found this video. I shared this with my family and friends to explain to them what I deal with everyday. Bipolar 2 has me permanently depressed or overly energetic and angry. There is no in between.
My poor brother in law was just diagnosed with bipolar 2. He recently tried to commit suicide twice, landed in the hospital where he was diagnosed, and he has been a severe alcoholic for years (likely to try and self medicate). Words cannot express how sorry I am for him and any who have to regularly go through the deepest, longest depression cycles.
Hey there Megan! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. He frequently does free support calls for patreons, he did so 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
FreeMe Life I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and a very warm welcome to my channel! Please stop by again soon to keep learning more with me and let me know if you ever have any questions :-)
Thank you for the videos. I have type 2 along with anxiety and panic disorder. It’s been hard to except it! Medication has been helping, and I stopped drinking for the last two weeks. I’m not a bad person, I deserve to live a normal life like anyone else 😞
I'm recently diagnosed with bipolar 2 also have extreme social anxiety, agoraphobia, depression, and PTSD. Thanks for the video! It will be very helpful to show people and help them understand. 😊
New subscriber with bipolar II and already a huge fan. You have a calming voice that’s easy to listen too. Thank you for all your information. I feel less alone.
That's funny, I usually seek out help when I'm hypomanic instead of when I'm depressed. My illness started out as major depression so it almost feels normal to be depressed. My hypomania is very disphoric and I become so irritable that I lash out on everyone (but mostly myself). Thanks for talking about us. Most people I've run into think there's just one type of Bipolar. I really appreciate everything you're doing. I've been to at least 10 doctors and councilors and none of them has made this much sense. Keep it up! ✌
Great explanation. I kept fighting the bipolar diagnosis because I don’t feel any mania. Just deep depression. Now I’ve learned that the racing thoughts alone is a symptom of mania. Even listening to this my mind was going to a dozen different thoughts. Thank goodness for technology that allows me access to this information and to be able to go back and watch it again.
Now I understand why I would self medicate. At first I thought I was just getting high because I enjoyed it, but since I've been watching these videos now I understand.
It's like our body and minds just wanted to feel good again, it knew something was wrong and it just didn't know any better. We did the best we could with what we had. Thanks for commenting Blaine! - Dianna Polar Warrior Team Member For additional content consider joining us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
I was recently diagnosed with bipolar type 2 and bpd. It’s been such a struggle for me, for me it’s always the feeling good, motivated, energetic and focused that is always short lived. It’s like once I finally feel I have a grasp on things that’s when I hit a wall and my motivation is gone, I am irritable, my focus is gone, I feel intense hopelessness and spend a lot of time crying. I so badly just want to live a normal life with normal motivation and experience what a regular sense of emotions feels like. Watching this video has given me more information than the dr who diagnosed me did.
My doctor increased my Lamictal from 200 to 300 mg per day. She added 1.5 mg of Vraylar I don’t feel depressed anymore. I am manic almost everyday, But that’s just fine. I worry somewhat of getting Tardive dyskinesia.
Its 6.30 in the morning. I still havent slept. Im in a mixed state right now, im unmedicated because they havent even been able to diagnose me properly yet. I had one teraphist who insisted a couple years ago i have bipolar type 2 and CPTSD. Unfortunately he was unable to diagnose me due to his moving cities, and every teraphist i met since doesnt seem to take either me, or their job too seriously. I have asked them to hospitalize me since febuary when i started to spiral downwards into what feels like my heaviest depression ever, and still were here waiting for something to happen.. All i got right now to make sense of things, and try to keep some form of damage control for myself and my closest ones, is this channel. I can relate a lot. Just wanted to say thank you for sharing your knowledge..
Hi! I don't know which country you're in but if push comes to shove, a family doctor or general practitioner cam diagnose and treat you as well. In fact mine does. Don't give up trying. A proper diagnosis opens up many doors to getting a proper treatment plan. Keep fighting! Dianna Polar Warrior Team Member For additional content consider joining us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Thanks for your video ! I was diagnosed with Bipolar type 2 and prescribed depakote 3 months ago. At first I was resilient to this diagnosis because I did some looking into hypomania and I didn’t relate to the “on top of the world feeling” or having an overly productive feeling. I also didn’t like that she diagnosed me within less than 10mins of our first appointment, I wasn’t feeling it. For the first month I didn’t take any meds I just decided to wait to see her again. I was already diagnosed with major depression and an anxiety disorder way before the bipolar disorder. When it came time to see her again, I explained my feelings of this being a misdiagnoses and how I don’t feel euphoric, I just feel anxious or depressed, there’s no overly happiness. She said that my hypomania came in the form of extreme anxiety and irritability, and that everyone’s experience with bipolar is totally different, not always happy and productive. After that things started making since, I started to realize a pattern I had. With my mood, I always felt like I had 3 different personalities, (“normal” or myself, extremely anxious or irritated and then depressed), I never expected anything, i didn’t even account for the irritability, thought I got that from my dad, cause it just seemed like he had anger issues all the time, but all in all I just thought it was my brain just doing its thing “today I feel like an anxious piece of shit that thinks everyone is out to get me” or “today im mad, why the fuck would my roommate unplug the goddamn toaster oven, knowing my toast was in there, now I’m going to be late to work, I should throw the thing out the window, I can’t use it no one can” or “boom I’m depressed, my life is nothing, no one gives a shit, body feels like a ton of bricks and I stopped going to the gym months ago, I do not have the strength for this rn” “also I need 40 mgs of melatonin cause I can’t fucking sleep” Now, I’m taking the meds and seeing a therapist, trying to better understand this entire thing and how I can better prepare myself for when I do experience these moods. I feel like I have a little bit more control now that I understand why this is happening to me.
I'm so glad you found the video helpful! If you have a minute, check out our private community on Patreon =). It's where you can message me directly and access content of a more personal nature. PATREON: www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors Take extra good care of yourself this week. -Rob
Oh my goodness!!! I'm so proud of myself for having fully understood your English!! And I really appreciate your comments on bipolar desorder. I'll keep on watching your videos. Best wishes from Northeastern Brazil.
I’m bipolar 2 with treatment resistant diagnoses. Oh joy. The lack of any hypo states and just depressive state is so hard. I do thank you for this video.
I'm only 19 but I've been in therapy for five years. Usually my doctors only diagnosed me as an anxious person. This year I've finally been diagnosed with bipolar 2, and everything makes sense now!! Thanks for the video
I got diagnosed a month ago, at age 36 and after 16 years of struggling, fighting depressions from which I could never fully recover. Actually, last year I was diagnosed with ADHD and now they got to the conclusion it is a MIxed Disorder with Bipolar type 2 as well. And yes, that explains most of my adult life and memories are popping up all the time. I'm having mixed feelings at this point: sometimes relieved for finally understanding what was going on with me but also kind of scared, even though I've always been like that. They changed one of my meds and rose the doses of another. I'm just waiting till the first-month collateral effects go away. Right now I must confess I see no horizon ahead and even though I've never been suicidal (and still am not) I'm just leaving my life with no purpose. Your videos are helping me a lot. I'm watching most of them. Hope to have better news about my humor soon! Thanks a lot for sharing all of that. Greetings from Brazil.
Thank you so much for this. espacially the part of not going too the doctor when you have hypomania ("good" mania for you), and being misdiagnosed with major depression disorder hits so hard. I was rejected being checked out, even though my doctor said it was important and wanted me to get prioritized, because they said "there is not enough indicating that you may have it". really setting my life on pause. it sucks so bad.
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. 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
Im from sweden, 30 years old and tomorrow im probably getting my diagnosis...its hell right now. Half of my life just got explained and its tearing me apart. It feels so good and horrible at the same time. To struggle for 15 years just thinking its who I am while making family, friends and myself so confused. What a painful relief.
Please remember that this is just ONE part of who you are as a person. It's like the colour of your eyes or your age, just one part that makes you you. I believe that us bipolar folk are baptised by fire and that makes us strong as fuck! Please get involved with the mental health community, peer support is so important, you are not alone!! You also have much to give to someone who is struggling like you are, consider volunteering, you have a purpose. Rob is offering free phone calls to Patrons right now on Patreon. 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
Thank you so much for this TH-cam channel! It is the best information I’ve found on the internet since being diagnosed with Bipolar type II last year. It’s so refreshing having succinct videos from a friendly person :) I hope that in future there will be less stigma and more information like this on this poorly understood mental illness.
Thank you very much for your vulnerable honesty. My guy hasnt admitted he has it, he left out some paperwk when we moved in together that said he'd been diagnosed, I dont think he ment to. . So I have no idea what kind or how much he knows. Ive not found the right time or way to talk to him. Your videos have helped me understand his behavior and not feel crazy. Or understand why Im am going crazy.
After four depressions and being in hospital for more than a Year, i realise that i am bipolar 2. Hypomania is very Nice but it drainages all my energy and than i collapse. I hope 2021 Will be a year without both and i work hard to get There. I learn a lot from your vids! All the best to all my bipolair friends! Greetings from the Netherlands.
I was diagnosed bipolar type 2 when I was 19 years old, it's been 4 hard years of going back and forth with my emotions, had 2 suicide attempts after going out of rehab, I am still struggling to get my shit together. It's been 3 months since my last episode, treatment's helping and what I found to be really useful alongside my meds is therapy and meditation. Still struggling on the drugs part but I'm decreasing my intake and hopefully I can break free from my addiction to cannabis soon. Never stop taking your pills, I did and all hell broke loose. Salutations.
I cant tell you how happy I found this channel, I have a hard time trying to explain my disorder to family or friends.but With the way you put it it's very direct and simple with a good explanation. This is helping me understand myself alot more too. Thank you. Your doing a great job please dont stop.
My wife is diagnosed with bipolar 2. We've been together for almost 9 years. In this time she has left me 7 times and this time will be the 8th. I want to be there for her and also keep my family. I really don't know what to do.
Hi Leonardo, Hi, thanks for reaching out. The best way to talk to Rob directly is through Patreon, it's not about the money as it is just there are only a group of people there that is manageable. He responds to direct messages on that platform. If you are already a Patron, just cut and paste what you wrote into a message and put the recipient as Polar Warriors and that is Rob exclusively. That being said, it would be a disservice to try to help with just a few paragraphs. Counselling is amazing, it will help you navigate this tough situation. If she sees you getting help and working on yourself it may inspire her to do the same. Take care. 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
02:08 It's the third year for me without no ''Ups''.. Years of meds, therapy, hospitals.. But videos like this make me feel less lonely - isolated knowing there are people who understand that horrible state we struggle with..
SADat4AM I can totally relate... sometimes I miss being manic so often but my life is a lot more peaceful now. Is the depression still just as bad for you or better now? Usually when the mania stops, it means the medications are working. As long as the depression has gotten better too, you might be on a good path with meds. I’m so glad that the channel is helping and you are absolutely not alone here.😊😊😊
Oh, thank you for your reply. I agree, there is a lot of peace and quiet in that ''down'' phase but it definitely has a high price resulting in productivity at work when I can't leave home for weaks.. Therapy helps me really a lot, and I'm moving out to live on my own finally because it is really psychologically unhealthy environment at home. And I cut off the booze since this new years eve and I can say that I'm feeling great about it. :) Looks like I still have some grip on my life but self-hatred is something too much lately. Happy I found your channel, best of luck! ^^
SADat4AM of course! I’m really glad that we connected and I hope you find some relief from the information on this channel. I’m glad you are here :-) I think it is phenomenal that you have quit drinking and are working on getting to a better living environment. Those things will make such a huge huge difference in your life. For what it’s worth, I’m really proud of you for what you are doing and the path that you are on!
linnea 80 I’m glad you found my channel and thank you so much for the kind words. Stop by again soon… Lots more videos to come :-) -Robert www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Hi! I plan to watch every bit of content of this channel. At 32, I've just been diagnosed type 2. I'm as much relieved as I am anxious about my future. Because, well... before I started to question my inability to see projects to their end once passion fades, I though of my "good days" as my ideal mood... I love me when I am energetic and full of enthusiasm, optimism and positivism. I thought that was the normal me, and in my depressions (longer and longer from age 24) I longed to become that Max again. It was (still is) hard for me to acknowledge hypomania as unhealthy... It still feels like the state I wish I was all the time. I am very confused I'd say. I thank you for you time, creating this channel and maintaining it. Thank you very much. I will also take the time to read as much comments as possible as I am looking for hope and comprehension. So thanks to everyone participating on this page. Greetings from Quebec, Canada
My diagnosis was specified as type 2 as of 2 weeks ago. Stuff is starting to make sense. I have half a year of journaling on my episodes and wondered if something was wrong because there was basically no euthymia at all, then this video helped clear that one up lol. Thanks (note: I didn't know anything about the disorder at all until june after some wild things happened at the end of may, that's a whole story... I have tons of recordings in my audio journal and went back in time later to fill in some gaps to document the episodes I thought I was having later, before later getting it confirmed by my psychologist and later the psychiatrist who diagnosed type II)
Thank you for your content, Rob. You’re wonderful. I’m Bipolar 2 schizoaffective with chronic anxiety and it sucks balls. You really do help me. Thank you, really, from the very fundament of my self. Love. 💕
Hi just got diagnosed as having bipolar depression. I have major depressive disorder. I just started medication I’m on antidepressants right now. I’m kind of looking for a support group in New York City. Your videos has really help me try to understand my mental onus diagnosis. Thank you.
Hi Cece, 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. 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 this. Now, at age 33, I was finally diagnosed with bipolar type 2. I've known/suspected this for a few years now (before that I only knew about type 1). I used to be diagnosed with a bunch of stuff, like major depression (at 17), OCD (kind of?), anxiety/panic disorder (because I have/had panic attacks, am catastrophizing and overthinking things), different personality disorders... I'm so glad I found your videos among other information, since the psychiatrists I've had didn't even know bipolar type 2 was a thing.
I realize this video is over a year old now, but thank you for taking the time to make this series. I'll be checking out the rest of it soon. To those browsing the comments section to try and further relate to your peers, you are not alone and the fact that you found this comment means you have made it through so much. Here is a part of my story. I had been known to regularly suffer from episodes of depression since I was roughly 10. I remember crying at night, begging God himself to, one way or another, end the torment in my mind. I was never hospitalized, but I was suicidal from that age as well. I was officially diagnosed as BP2 when I was 22. It was a particularly rough time. On top of the diagnosis, I had to end my relationship from not being able to keep up with my girlfriends foray into polyamory and my senior year of college (chemistry is a rather hard major to go for) was getting really difficult. Half my family was almost killed in a traffic collision while on the way to see me. I ended up leaving college after attempting a 5th year. I tried college again twice more before throwing in the towel. I almost consider it inevitable that I'll try again in the future to finish a bachelor's degree. I've been on over a dozen different medications since my first mental health visit when I was young. I abused weed for over a year. After changing to my latest psychiatrist, I weaned off of an SSRI and SSRI withdrawal is most unpleasant to say the least. I've been in treatment for yet another severe depressive episode. I'm a recouped alcoholic. I've been hooked on benzos for anxiety. And I'm only 27...
My wife and I enjoy all the videos that we have seen that you put together because they are informative and it is obvious to anyone that you care a great deal. I am sure we wished we had this back in 2010 when I was diagnosed. I thank GOD for my wife and her help. Between her, a good friend, and JESUS, they kept me from being really destructive. Without the love and prayers, I probably would've at least done something to land me in the hospital. Take care and GOD be with you and your loved ones
I love your videos Sir! You explain the condition so objectively, yet you still maintain the reality that this is still VERY REAL for us.. I’m not diagnosed, as I’m uninsured, but my father was bipolar. And i know how I feel. I feel very alone in how I feel, but these videos have helped bring some light back into my life!
I've just been diagnosed with type 2. I'm in a major depressive episode right now. I haven't even got the words for it, and to make matters worse, my boss just doesn't get it. This morning I flipped out, crying and shaking and crying. I got told that others are working and I should be helping my colleagues. I thought oh, I'll just turn it off then shall I? Anyway I walked out, called the crisis team and I'm waiting to see someone. Because I don't want to be here. Thank you for your work x
I'm so glad you reached out for help and I hope you received it. I myself was having trouble working and am now on disability for a year. I'm working on getting my meds right and also going to counseling once a week. Maybe it's something that may help? Take gentle care.🙏 - Dianna Polar Warrior Team Member For additional content consider joining us on Patreon! www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Thank you for posting this informative video. I was diagnosed with Bi-Polar II, with Generalized Anxiety Disorder in 2017 after 15 years of thinking I was "crazy". Just last week 10/18/18, I was hospitalized for facial pain, now after many CT scans and MRI's, I have been diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia. If you could, make a video about mood disorders along with other simultaneous diseases and their effect on the mood disorder. Thank you
@@dingleberryjones09 I’m still alive. Many do die of TN pain, cannot blame them at all. Remember, pain is not forever, nor does pain define who we are. Good doctors, the right medication, and a knowledgeable therapist all help to minimize the pain and depression.
I was recently was diagnosed with type 2 bipolar. For a long time I had a major depressive diagnosis because my hypomanic episodes just felt like bursts of motivation where I would go for long runs or write lots of music. It sucks because during those episodes it feels like I was "faking my depression" and while I'm in a depression I'm mad at myself for "losing motivation"
Diagnosed around 12yrs old. I've only found 2 modalities that helped, no meds ever did, but the modalities aren't always accessible. Maybe i will focus on changing that now that i think of it. As far as wisdom that has helped, it was from you sir- don't chase the mania
Thank you for sharing your journey with me. I'm glad my advice about not chasing the mania resonated with you. Stay strong! -Rob www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
I have a son who was diagnosed Bipolar I after being taken from the home in a chapter 51. I spent thousands of dollars with forensic psychologist and other psychiatrist getting a diagnosis for him. He was 43 At the time and effort and previously diagnosed with depression and anxiety panic attacks and ADHD. He was put on meds for bipolar too and just had another psychotic episode a few months ago and was taken out by police again. No harm to himself or others but now they’re wondering if he’s bipolar one. He doesn’t really have continuing care other than a psychiatrist 1x/month for 20 minutes and it’s really really difficult to tell him to keep a log and pay attention to how he’s feeling. He has now been evicted from his apartment after only being in this one for 3 months. Trying to get assistance and get him some benefits is akin to running into a wall. Help! From WI
I'm sorry to hear about this difficult situation with your son. I hope he's able to get the assistance he needs. It might be helpful to have a case worker who can help coordinate care and services. I'm not familiar with what's available in WI and how you go about acquiring one there. You could start with his PCP and see if they can refer you to one or to an agency that provides that type of service. It might be something he can get due to his disabilities. If he's not on disability/SSDI but qualifies for it that might be one route to take, if he's unable to work. That would at least provide some financial assistance but in some states that opens up additional benefits. That can be a tough journey though, getting approved. I've been through that. Finding peer supports for him might help him as well, like a support group setting. All the best to you and your son!- Rachel (Polar Warriors Team Member)
Thank you Rob for these videos. I have Bipolar type 2. I have educated myself over the past 3 decades and have many tools to help manage symptoms. My life was turned upside down 6 years ago. I have been very ill with hypomanic episodes then the crash into months of depression and the tsunamis of distorted thinking, the pain of past trauma ..... anyhoo it is so hard to get professional help, no one is taking new patients blah blah blah. I finally got myself connected, but not a psychiatrist, a nurse practitioner to start medication again (after years of not taking any). Your channel is reminding me of tools that have been practiced by me for a couple decades, but was no longer able to because of the bone crushing depression and the screaming volume in my mind. There are new tools (I take notes of those) that I will start learning, practicing and make part of how I want to manage this illness going forth. Thank you very much for all the varied videos, makes me a wee bit hopeful that some motivation may return for me to manage this current depression and with the medication create some stability.
Thanks again for another great video. My husband is finally out of the hole so he is able to call me now. I have already sent him some of the transcripts from your videos and I will be sending him this one as well. You are awesome, thank you so much!!
Marilyn Melendez-Gamble Yay!!! I’m so glad! Please tell him I personally said hello and that I send him my support in his very difficult situation. Please keep me posted on his progress and what he thinks of the transcripts. What you are doing for him just blows my mind and you are such an amazing person to help him like that. I respect you so much for that. Talk to you soon my friend :-)
Hey i am really enjoying your videos, some great information, i was diagnosed with bipolar eight years ago, the first two years were hard i was hospitalized several times with manic episodes, now though i suffer mostly with depression, i still have some highs but i have learn techniques in therapy to help get any mania under control quick, only problem is depression comes not long after and when this happens i shut down and find most days just to be like a void, i still work but i have trouble making conversation, connecting and forming new relationships with with most people join these periods, does anybody else have this problem.
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
I’m Bipolar Type One Hi from Florida. Thank you very much for your videos. I myself am Bipolar Type I, I have some other medical conditions including cancer, and I’m disabled. Although I can’t say I had terrible young years, it was difficult dealing with relationships, mood swings, leaving graduate schools twice, etc. Fortunately, I was able to graduate on my third try thanks to my extended maniac episodes. After few years of succeeding in my carrier and life, the cancer came back. This happened after a period of long hours of work at my job. Then everything changed, I entered a period of severe major depression and then I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. After all these years, I’m still struggling with my symptoms, and the lack of understanding and compassion from people, however, I won’t give up.
A GP diagnosed and treated me for depression when I was 41. The antidepressant prescribed made me much worse, but because I lived alone and it was summertime (I worked in academia so didn't teach in summer), I came perilously close to being suicidal. Almost lost job. At 48 I was living in a different state, married and had a new GP. He is avidly interested in mental health issues and diagnosed me as type 2 when I came seeking help for an extended depressed period. Even though I had a type 1 grandparent, I never considered the possibility for myself because I never had full blown mania. I was very high functioning though, and teased for my moodiness. I didn't know about hypomania or type 2. I hate that it took so long to figure this out, but so much makes sense about my life when viewed through this diagnosis. I was clearly this way in childhood too, often sullen and always tired. Still tweaking the meds, it is a process. Thank you for these videos, which is helping educate me and my spouse.
I know how you feel, my life makes sense to me now and I was just diagnosed less than a week ago, in my 40s. I have type 2 as well and I never would have thought of myself as bipolar because I wasn't aware that it was a spectrum disorder until I started reading more about it. I spend a lot of time feeling depressed or having episodes of dysphoric mania which is to say I am not completely out of energy, I'm "buzzing" but it's a terrible buzz, it's full of negativity and self-hatred. I am liable to do things like self-harm or isolate myself because I always feel that people are thinking poorly of me. Life is so hard sometimes but I keep going. God has blessed me with a wonderful, caring husband a beautiful little boy. He's autistic and the light of my world. Good luck on your journey.
Finally coming to terms with my bipolar II diagnosis. I felt like I was faking it. But my last psych appointment reinforced it, especially because we modified my meds and it took me out of breakthrough depression super quick. If I understand correctly, that doesn’t tend to happen with unipolar depression. It’s been difficult because hypomania has been hard to recognize, and I went hypomanic/mixed on Zoloft but that’s the only time I’ve been manic enough to where I’ve noticed it. Not to mention I rapid cycle which makes things more complicated. But I’ve accepted that it’s real. I’m not a screwup. And things will be ok :)
I was just recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder type 2. I really appreciate your videos. On a side note, I also sarcastically say fun stuff and I always get looks.
Zomb then I would think it's an inappropriate response unless you're saying it to people you know have no sense of humor. If it happens often then I would say the latter isn't the issue. Sarcasm is the cousin of anger. Depression is anger turned inward. You may not lack empathy but sarcasm will make it look like you do.
I love your channel.. im trying to get a diagnosis.. I was told cyclothymia but I don't agree with it and thanks to your wonderful channel im able to rationalise my traits and hopefully share my reasoning with my doctor.. I think im type 2.. sending you lots of love.. you are such a great person to provide this resource x
all my life, i was treated for ADHD. it was the 90s so Ritalin, Adderall, Strattera, therapy. i was was a very upbeat person. my hypomanic episodes were mistaken for adhd moments. the first depressive episode was at 14 but didnt affect me hard until about 18 or 20. it was written off as hormone imbalance, obesity factors, aspergers syndrome, or generalized anxiety. it wasnt until i had bariatric surgery and seeing a great therapist that she told me to read about bipolar 2 disorder. it's a relatively new diagnosis so its been hard for me to accept, let alone manage. i was raised to think one of the worst things you could be is bipolar besides full blown psychosis. i feel like a failure as a person. reading and educating myself usually helps me but receiving the bp2 diagnosis has been devastating. i am desperately seeking answers but even in these videos and literature, it seems hopeless. it's a manageable disorder but it can breakthrough the meds, the treatments, etc. i feel like I'll never have a happy life or relationships. I've been able to keep a job with the commonwealth for over 10 years with no major issues but i find that my worst challenges are raising my child and keeping romantic relationships. I'm afraid of not being able to keep fighting the looming suicide idealization that comes with every trigger hit. this has not been a good year.
Hi Rob! Thank you for the videos. I have bipolar tip 2. And your videos its easy to understand and are helping me to understand better the bipolar. Im from Brazil and my english its not so good but I can understand most part of what you are saying. Keep going and thanks again!
Conoce Un Angel Thank you so much my brother. I really appreciate your kind comments and how much you support my channel. You are so awesome Angel and thank you so very much.
Thank you so much , I'm having so much trouble adjusting to my new medicine and coming back or getting stable from a mania state again . so your channel is really helpful to me right now. I feel so much better.
a j I am so glad and that is exactly why I started this channel… To help people not suffer as much as I have. My battle or journey with medications has been rough. My body is extremely sensitive to side effects and it took time for me to find the right medication, but it was so worth the fight! It did not seem like it at the time LOL, but I’m really glad I didn’t give up on trying to live a better life. A very warm welcome to my channel and I hope you will continue to stop back by and learn more with me. :-) Robert
I love birds be free I have become so dedicated to this project. I had no idea the channel would grow as fast as it has, and helping people is truly the greatest reward ever for me. It’s just in my nature to do so and I hope to help as many people as I possibly can! Stop back by anytime and thank you so much for your supportive kind words :-)
I'm am slightly worried sometimes that I experience hypomania. My depressive episodes end really abruptly (like, one day I'm depressed, the next day I'm fine) and in the weeks / months following a depressive episode I can sometimes be very happy, motivated, energetic, spend more money than usually etc. So, a few days ago, when I couldn't sleep (again) I actually googled the symptoms of hypomania. I don't meet the criteria, so for the time being I am just going to enjoy these awesome months and be glad that I have them :)
imaginareality There are so many different ways that people experience bipolar disorder. Even if you have a specific diagnosis, that doesn’t mean that you won’t experience symptoms that are outside of the diagnosis criteria. What you’re describing sounds a lot like rapid cycling which is what I deal with. I made another video in the series the talks about rapid cycling. Check that one out and see if that helps a little bit. I’m glad you found my channel and stop back by anytime :-)
Been BP2 for almost 40 years. With psychosis. Anxiety. Borderline personality disorder among many more. I rapid cycle sometimes daily. I remind myself that I am strong not broken
Thank you for another great video! I have bipolar 2 too. It was mis-diagnosed for 19 years as just being chronically depressed. I look back now and can see all the times i must have been hypomanic, but i had just put it down to really good days/having a 'moment.'
grateful to have found this channel. I was diagnosed with bipolar and borderline when I was very young, maybe 12 or 13 or younger. I threw away my medications when I was a teenager and just told everyone I was fine. I don't have many friends or family so people don't usually see that I definitely still cycle, all the time. I am 30 now and not sure where to get support in my life, but ill just keep moving 1 step at a time. I have very strong suicidal ideation, but I really don't want to reincarnate and have to deal with all this shit even worse... comic relief?
Hi Linda! I am so sorry to hear that you are hurting. Please consider seeing a doctor for some treatment. My psychiatrist told me that any depression lasting longer than two weeks needs a MEd change or adjustment. Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you had a broken leg you would seek help. There are also many new treatments for hard to treat depression out there. I've just started researching microdosing for myself. Please don't give up hope! Rob also does coaching on patreon if you are interested. Take gentle care. Dianna, polar warriors www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors www.crisistextline.org/
I used to think, before I was educated, that type 1 was worse somehow because of the psychosis part. it scares the shit out of me. However, its pretty clear now that yeah we're all on the same boat, stay strong yall.
I have had a horrible experience with my bipolar two. I struggled for years to figure out what was wrong with me and tried to depend on my friends to help me as I search for help. I finally got help and when I got diagnosed with bipolar two they didn’t believe that’s what it was. I went a year and left therapy believing them. I went through many months in a depressive state that hurt my family and people around me because I could not hardly get myself off the couch or out of bed. Then because of not taking care of myself along with an alcohol problem developing I went into an extreme hypo manic state that lasted over three weeks. I am now in the mixed mania and having difficulty getting out. I am scheduled to start therapy again this week so hoping for hope in the future along with leaving people in the past that did not believe me or help me and only made my situation worse. I have lost family and friends along the way but I am moving forward and hoping for a bright future.
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! 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
I'm 25 just got diagnosed in February, I'm having a hard time remembering to take medication, I'm always trying to keep myself together I go to the Doctor before the hospital,
I was previously diagnosed with Clinical Depression when I was 15. My symptoms started showing around the age of 14. I had extremely low moods. I started isolating myself in my room and pushed people away. I was often irritable and didn't want to talk to anyone. At other times, I would try to change myself. (Many of my friends thought I had some kind of personality disorder because of this). I started getting into self harm and it got really bad to the point I was self harming every day multiple times. I was going to therapy inconsistently for 2 years and I was put on several medications, but none of them were successful. I remember telling my dad one day that I was so scared something was going to happen to me, and I think a few days to a week later, I was in the hospital for unfortunate reasons.. I was diagnosed with Bipolar 2 just last year. I was put on a medication that started working for me and now I'm over 6 months clean. It's crazy how one pill can change a lot of things. I have had instances where I haven't been able to get my medications and it was terrifying to me for many reasons. I was in the hospital for over a month and when I got out, my boyfriend was waiting for me. I hope that this helps someone. I'm in college right now and I have a 4.0 GPA. I'm very happy that my life isn't over. :)
Thank you my problems started at 16 I'm now 40 I've been diagnosed with stress and anxiety in the past then alcohol dependence now drug missuse people always say I've got slit personality mostly depressed then sometimes loving life like everyone loves being with me someone mentioned bipolar before but I just shrugged then I've recently me a woman who has it and no reason she just says she needs time to think I didn't know what was going on so I looked on here to get an insight so I found your videos and descovered it sounds more like me what I've been through and going through and it's me it makes so much sense but now I'm scared to go to doctors incase he thinks I'm lying just seems he Rush's but its first time it's made sense so now I'm happy but confused thank you
Wayne Coleman Keep stopping by my channel… I will have lots more videos that will help you learn more about Bipolar and make it easier to put into words how you are feeling. If you go to a doctor and they don’t take you seriously, I would absolutely suggest finding another one. I have experienced my share of bad doctors and really take charge of my own health now by demanding the best care possible. We all deserve that :-)
watching this during my hypomanic episode and i know this is an old video of yours but thank you :) our disorder is lesser known and is often seen as a “lesser” version of bp1 which simply isn’t true
The worst part about bipolar type 2 is because of the lack of consistency in mood you don’t consistently perform in all aspects of your life. Career, relationships, hobbies, hygiene etc. Life passes you by.
This is sooo true
It can feel like you take a couple of steps forward and get jolted 1 mile back.
True
And because of this I don't know how to answer a question like: "Do you behave differently than usual?"
What does "usual" mean??? It changes frequently...
@@marion.saturn I recently started taking some new medication that has been really helping me. Plus I’ve started incorporating meditation into my days. My highs aren’t as high and my lows aren’t so low. I’ve also been slowly adding back in things like eating and sleeping consistently, proper management of hygiene, cleaning everyday… because of all of this combined, I now have a functioning baseline. I can say what is essentially the usual. Just thought I’d let you know how all of these things have begun to help me… so you know that it is possible to be whole again. So you know there is hope. The most important thing when it comes to bipolar is ruthlessly managing your sleep. It’s not fun, but too little sleep can have major impacts on your mood.
God Bless you sir! I’m bipolar 2. I am depressed all the time I feel good sometimes but then I go back down to being depressed.
Hope you are in a good mood now.
Hi Greg, I know this was awhile ago. I hope your better. With depression, anything over two weeks becomes an episode and requires a med change or adjustment. Please don't suffer longer than you have to.
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
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
Stay strong Greg✊ you’re not alone
I’m the same way. Mostly depressed and once in a while hypomanic.
Kane Fisher lol Us with Bipolar are never normal!
Thank you so much. Diagnosed three weeks ago and the medication is changing my life. My husband thinks he has a new wife. I never could function until late evening. The past week I’ve been up at 5:30 every morning and out for an hour walk. It’s a miracle. I pray this lasts. I’m 70 years old next month. My heart aches for the years lost and the heartache I’ve caused myself and others. I feel hope for the first time in absolute years and years.
Awww thank you so much
for sharing your story. You are on a beautiful path my friend 🙏❤🌞🌞
- Rob
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
What meds are helping you?
I’m the same...can’t really seem to think or ‘get going’ until evening and mornings kill me. A morning appointment causes me so much stress.
“Years lost and heartache I’ve caused.” I felt that Soozi!
So happy for you; better late then never... I was over 40 when i got diagnosed right. I believe things happen when they suppose to happen! God Bless you!! 💜🙏🏻🕊
I always question the hypomania afterwards. "Wasn't it the old me?, ..." anyone can relate? I was diagnosed though
I can relate! I don’t know what my normal personality is.
I always thought that my hypo-mania me was who I really was. I always thought that I was this indestructible guy that could easily work 16 hours a day with a smile on my face.. But I guess it is so easy to forget how low you where when you suddenly are up again. When I think back now it all makes sense. But that doesn't make you happier realizing you are not as good and strong as you always thought. My doctor said: Now you have to be normal and boring just like the rest of us ;-) That helped a bit actually.
But at the other hand.. It WAS actually you that did all these great things. No one can take that away from you. Only reason I think I need treatment now is that the disorder has developed much more now as to 10-20 years ago. So now we need to do something about it. But the past is something we did all on our own without even knowing we had any disorder. So that was us as we where. Hang in there. I heard many say the symptoms get less when you get a bit older like past 50 or something. We might have a long life ahead of us after that ;-)
Dani I’m 65 and I can’t say it is better. Controlled but now I am more depressed than manic.
@@Lindasromperroom this one
Took till I was in my 40s until I got a bipolar 2 diagnosis. The hypomania I always felt was just me being awesome and how I should be all the time.. the long depressions were just me failing... I've realised that this isn't the case and in retrospect my manic times often lead to stupid risky choices. Thanks for making these videos.
So much this.
Yep, I can relate to the feeling of awesomeness and thinking it's how I should be. I'm on a 6 out of 10 mood right now and I wish I could stay this way forever.
Unfortunately it will probably change soon, to either full hypomania or depression.
Why is feeling awesome bad? I mean when you feel down, that sucks I know, but when you feel good, is that bad too?
Yup, that's exactly right. It took me so long to figure out that I was actually bipolar and not just a complete failure. I would get so much done during my hypomanic episodes just to destroy it a few months later when Id hit a depressive episode. And that was basically the cycle of my entire life. The only thing that kind of sucks now that I'm on medication is that my hypomanic episodes felt like the only times in my life that I was actually happy. So now I just feel kind of like meh all the time. But I also don't hit depressions so low that I can't work or even leave my house for a month. So I guess u gotta just take the win where u can get it.
OMG!! Thats exactly what I feel!
I was finally diagnosed Bipolar 2 and have been on the proper meds for about a year now. What a difference proper medication and therapy can make.
The last time I battled a hypo manic episode was May of this year (2019) . Obsessive ruminating of every negative experience I could remember- going back 20+ years. Self loathing, anger at every person in my life. Energy to talk fast and derogatory about everything and everyone. Yada, Yada, Yada! I made enemies and lost family members ability to be around me! Then I dropped down into the pit. ( My description of depression) I am trying now to develop a posse. People who can understand and support me in this journey. Difficult group to gather! Send me good thoughts! Thanks , Rob. I wish all Warriors wellness and Peace of mind .
Hi! I had to form my own support system so I can totally relate. One unexpected person is my pharmacist. He's amazing and explained Bipolar and treatments, he knows and remembers me, I talk to him a lot. My support system is small but it's really good. Sometimes we are so disappointed because we think a certain person or people should automatically be your support system but a lot of people just can't and that's okay. There are many times I am struggling and can't help others. We have a really great community on Patreon if your interested.
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
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
To anyone struggling and need humor: Maria Bamford is an AMAZING comedian with Bipolar 2 and OCD!
I admire you, a bipolar 1 with ultra-rapid cycling, for you effort to help other patients. It is a big merit.
Hats off
I have bipolar 2.
My family shunned me for it. My friends say I am a downer.
And my coworkers mock me for having it. I got diagnosed at the age of 20 I am now 33. I am happy I found this video. I shared this with my family and friends to explain to them what I deal with everyday. Bipolar 2 has me permanently depressed or overly energetic and angry. There is no in between.
Sound just like my life.
My poor brother in law was just diagnosed with bipolar 2. He recently tried to commit suicide twice, landed in the hospital where he was diagnosed, and he has been a severe alcoholic for years (likely to try and self medicate). Words cannot express how sorry I am for him and any who have to regularly go through the deepest, longest depression cycles.
Hey there Megan! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. He frequently does free support calls for patreons, he did so 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
I am bi polar 2 with depression. You really explained this well. Thanks for your videos
FreeMe Life I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and a very warm welcome to my channel! Please stop by again soon to keep learning more with me and let me know if you ever have any questions :-)
FreeMe Life I agree. Coming from a fellow sufferer it makes more sense to me for some reason.
Thank you for the videos. I have type 2 along with anxiety and panic disorder. It’s been hard to except it! Medication has been helping, and I stopped drinking for the last two weeks. I’m not a bad person, I deserve to live a normal life like anyone else 😞
How is things going for you now?
Accept^
I'm recently diagnosed with bipolar 2 also have extreme social anxiety, agoraphobia, depression, and PTSD. Thanks for the video! It will be very helpful to show people and help them understand. 😊
girl I'm so sorry.stay blessed❤
Oh shit...
That's too much for 1 person ! :(
How are doing?
@@annazawistowska2429 it depends on the day. Going through a hard spell lately
I am 77 years I’d age and was diagnosed with Hypo-Mania around 35 years ago. So don’t lose hope.
New subscriber with bipolar II and already a huge fan. You have a calming voice that’s easy to listen too. Thank you for all your information. I feel less alone.
That's funny, I usually seek out help when I'm hypomanic instead of when I'm depressed. My illness started out as major depression so it almost feels normal to be depressed. My hypomania is very disphoric and I become so irritable that I lash out on everyone (but mostly myself). Thanks for talking about us. Most people I've run into think there's just one type of Bipolar.
I really appreciate everything you're doing. I've been to at least 10 doctors and councilors and none of them has made this much sense. Keep it up! ✌
Great explanation. I kept fighting the bipolar diagnosis because I don’t feel any mania. Just deep depression. Now I’ve learned that the racing thoughts alone is a symptom of mania. Even listening to this my mind was going to a dozen different thoughts. Thank goodness for technology that allows me access to this information and to be able to go back and watch it again.
I got diagnosed with Depression and Bipolar type 2 today. I've been watching these videos and relate so much for so long. Now I have a relief.
Now I understand why I would self medicate. At first I thought I was just getting high because I enjoyed it, but since I've been watching these videos now I understand.
It's like our body and minds just wanted to feel good again, it knew something was wrong and it just didn't know any better. We did the best we could with what we had. Thanks for commenting Blaine!
- Dianna
Polar Warrior Team Member
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
I was recently diagnosed with bipolar type 2 and bpd. It’s been such a struggle for me, for me it’s always the feeling good, motivated, energetic and focused that is always short lived. It’s like once I finally feel I have a grasp on things that’s when I hit a wall and my motivation is gone, I am irritable, my focus is gone, I feel intense hopelessness and spend a lot of time crying. I so badly just want to live a normal life with normal motivation and experience what a regular sense of emotions feels like. Watching this video has given me more information than the dr who diagnosed me did.
Bipolar Disorder type 2 plus generalized anxiety disorder on top of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Same but complex PTSD from multiple traumas.
I have the same symptoms.
Haha shit, me too. Usually anxiety and depression hits me harder than the PTSD though.
Ayeeee! That’s me
Me too!! High 5!!!!
My doctor increased my Lamictal from 200 to 300 mg per day. She added 1.5 mg of Vraylar I don’t feel depressed anymore. I am manic almost everyday, But that’s just fine. I worry somewhat of getting Tardive dyskinesia.
Its 6.30 in the morning. I still havent slept. Im in a mixed state right now, im unmedicated because they havent even been able to diagnose me properly yet. I had one teraphist who insisted a couple years ago i have bipolar type 2 and CPTSD. Unfortunately he was unable to diagnose me due to his moving cities, and every teraphist i met since doesnt seem to take either me, or their job too seriously. I have asked them to hospitalize me since febuary when i started to spiral downwards into what feels like my heaviest depression ever, and still were here waiting for something to happen.. All i got right now to make sense of things, and try to keep some form of damage control for myself and my closest ones, is this channel. I can relate a lot. Just wanted to say thank you for sharing your knowledge..
Hi! I don't know which country you're in but if push comes to shove, a family doctor or general practitioner cam diagnose and treat you as well. In fact mine does. Don't give up trying. A proper diagnosis opens up many doors to getting a proper treatment plan. Keep fighting!
Dianna
Polar Warrior Team Member
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Thank you so much for these videos. Very informative and helpful. You are helping me accept and understand my biopolar II.
Thanks for your video !
I was diagnosed with Bipolar type 2 and prescribed depakote 3 months ago. At first I was resilient to this diagnosis because I did some looking into hypomania and I didn’t relate to the “on top of the world feeling” or having an overly productive feeling. I also didn’t like that she diagnosed me within less than 10mins of our first appointment, I wasn’t feeling it. For the first month I didn’t take any meds I just decided to wait to see her again. I was already diagnosed with major depression and an anxiety disorder way before the bipolar disorder. When it came time to see her again, I explained my feelings of this being a misdiagnoses and how I don’t feel euphoric, I just feel anxious or depressed, there’s no overly happiness. She said that my hypomania came in the form of extreme anxiety and irritability, and that everyone’s experience with bipolar is totally different, not always happy and productive.
After that things started making since, I started to realize a pattern I had. With my mood, I always felt like I had 3 different personalities, (“normal” or myself, extremely anxious or irritated and then depressed), I never expected anything, i didn’t even account for the irritability, thought I got that from my dad, cause it just seemed like he had anger issues all the time, but all in all I just thought it was my brain just doing its thing “today I feel like an anxious piece of shit that thinks everyone is out to get me” or “today im mad, why the fuck would my roommate unplug the goddamn toaster oven, knowing my toast was in there, now I’m going to be late to work, I should throw the thing out the window, I can’t use it no one can” or “boom I’m depressed, my life is nothing, no one gives a shit, body feels like a ton of bricks and I stopped going to the gym months ago, I do not have the strength for this rn” “also I need 40 mgs of melatonin cause I can’t fucking sleep”
Now, I’m taking the meds and seeing a therapist, trying to better understand this entire thing and how I can better prepare myself for when I do experience these moods. I feel like I have a little bit more control now that I understand why this is happening to me.
I was diagnosed with bipolar 2 two months ago. This was all so well said, thank you.
I'm actually a med student and I enjoy the information that you talk about ☺️ they're so educational
Your amazing for making these videos, it In a odd way makes me feel not alone.
I'm so glad you found the video helpful!
If you have a minute, check out our private community on Patreon =). It's where you can message me directly and access content of a more personal nature.
PATREON: www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Take extra good care of yourself this week.
-Rob
Oh my goodness!!! I'm so proud of myself for having fully understood your English!! And I really appreciate your comments on bipolar desorder. I'll keep on watching your videos. Best wishes from Northeastern Brazil.
I’m bipolar 2 with treatment resistant diagnoses. Oh joy. The lack of any hypo states and just depressive state is so hard. I do thank you for this video.
I'm only 19 but I've been in therapy for five years. Usually my doctors only diagnosed me as an anxious person. This year I've finally been diagnosed with bipolar 2, and everything makes sense now!! Thanks for the video
just got diagnosed and I am happy to be here :)
I got diagnosed a month ago, at age 36 and after 16 years of struggling, fighting depressions from which I could never fully recover. Actually, last year I was diagnosed with ADHD and now they got to the conclusion it is a MIxed Disorder with Bipolar type 2 as well. And yes, that explains most of my adult life and memories are popping up all the time. I'm having mixed feelings at this point: sometimes relieved for finally understanding what was going on with me but also kind of scared, even though I've always been like that. They changed one of my meds and rose the doses of another. I'm just waiting till the first-month collateral effects go away. Right now I must confess I see no horizon ahead and even though I've never been suicidal (and still am not) I'm just leaving my life with no purpose. Your videos are helping me a lot. I'm watching most of them. Hope to have better news about my humor soon! Thanks a lot for sharing all of that. Greetings from Brazil.
Thank you so much for this. espacially the part of not going too the doctor when you have hypomania ("good" mania for you), and being misdiagnosed with major depression disorder hits so hard. I was rejected being checked out, even though my doctor said it was important and wanted me to get prioritized, because they said "there is not enough indicating that you may have it". really setting my life on pause. it sucks so bad.
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. 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
Im from sweden, 30 years old and tomorrow im probably getting my diagnosis...its hell right now. Half of my life just got explained and its tearing me apart. It feels so good and horrible at the same time. To struggle for 15 years just thinking its who I am while making family, friends and myself so confused. What a painful relief.
Please remember that this is just ONE part of who you are as a person. It's like the colour of your eyes or your age, just one part that makes you you. I believe that us bipolar folk are baptised by fire and that makes us strong as fuck! Please get involved with the mental health community, peer support is so important, you are not alone!! You also have much to give to someone who is struggling like you are, consider volunteering, you have a purpose. Rob is offering free phone calls to Patrons right now on Patreon. 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
Thank you!!!!!!!! I was diagnosed with bipolar type 2 a week ago. You're amazing
Thank you so much for this TH-cam channel! It is the best information I’ve found on the internet since being diagnosed with Bipolar type II last year. It’s so refreshing having succinct videos from a friendly person :) I hope that in future there will be less stigma and more information like this on this poorly understood mental illness.
Thank you very much for your vulnerable honesty. My guy hasnt admitted he has it, he left out some paperwk when we moved in together that said he'd been diagnosed, I dont think he ment to.
. So I have no idea what kind or how much he knows. Ive not found the right time or way to talk to him. Your videos have helped me understand his behavior and not feel crazy. Or understand why Im am going crazy.
After four depressions and being in hospital for more than a Year, i realise that i am bipolar 2. Hypomania is very Nice but it drainages all my energy and than i collapse. I hope 2021 Will be a year without both and i work hard to get There. I learn a lot from your vids! All the best to all my bipolair friends! Greetings from the Netherlands.
Got my dianosis 5 days ago, still not started my tablets, these videos are a huge help so thanks bigman 👍
I was diagnosed bipolar type 2 when I was 19 years old, it's been 4 hard years of going back and forth with my emotions, had 2 suicide attempts after going out of rehab, I am still struggling to get my shit together.
It's been 3 months since my last episode, treatment's helping and what I found to be really useful alongside my meds is therapy and meditation. Still struggling on the drugs part but I'm decreasing my intake and hopefully I can break free from my addiction to cannabis soon.
Never stop taking your pills, I did and all hell broke loose.
Salutations.
I cant tell you how happy I found this channel, I have a hard time trying to explain my disorder to family or friends.but With the way you put it it's very direct and simple with a good explanation. This is helping me understand myself alot more too. Thank you. Your doing a great job please dont stop.
Thank you soooooo much I recently lost a job and lost my insurance these videos give me hope amd I no longer feel alone
My wife is diagnosed with bipolar 2. We've been together for almost 9 years. In this time she has left me 7 times and this time will be the 8th. I want to be there for her and also keep my family. I really don't know what to do.
Hi Leonardo, Hi, thanks for reaching out. The best way to talk to Rob directly is through Patreon, it's not about the money as it is just there are only a group of people there that is manageable. He responds to direct messages on that platform. If you are already a Patron, just cut and paste what you wrote into a message and put the recipient as Polar Warriors and that is Rob exclusively. That being said, it would be a disservice to try to help with just a few paragraphs. Counselling is amazing, it will help you navigate this tough situation. If she sees you getting help and working on yourself it may inspire her to do the same. Take care.
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
Her leaving you has nothing to do with her being bipolar type 2.
02:08 It's the third year for me without no ''Ups''.. Years of meds, therapy, hospitals.. But videos like this make me feel less lonely - isolated knowing there are people who understand that horrible state we struggle with..
SADat4AM I can totally relate... sometimes I miss being manic so often but my life is a lot more peaceful now. Is the depression still just as bad for you or better now? Usually when the mania stops, it means the medications are working. As long as the depression has gotten better too, you might be on a good path with meds. I’m so glad that the channel is helping and you are absolutely not alone here.😊😊😊
Oh, thank you for your reply. I agree, there is a lot of peace and quiet in that ''down'' phase but it definitely has a high price resulting in productivity at work when I can't leave home for weaks.. Therapy helps me really a lot, and I'm moving out to live on my own finally because it is really psychologically unhealthy environment at home. And I cut off the booze since this new years eve and I can say that I'm feeling great about it. :) Looks like I still have some grip on my life but self-hatred is something too much lately.
Happy I found your channel, best of luck! ^^
SADat4AM of course! I’m really glad that we connected and I hope you find some relief from the information on this channel. I’m glad you are here :-)
I think it is phenomenal that you have quit drinking and are working on getting to a better living environment. Those things will make such a huge huge difference in your life. For what it’s worth, I’m really proud of you for what you are doing and the path that you are on!
sincerely thanks!
SADat4AM of course! I hope you have a good week my friend :-)
Thank you for keeping the videos short, like my attention span.
I'm bipolar type 2, and you described it so well. Thank you for this channel, I think this will help many people
linnea 80 I’m glad you found my channel and thank you so much for the kind words. Stop by again soon… Lots more videos to come :-)
-Robert
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Hi! I plan to watch every bit of content of this channel. At 32, I've just been diagnosed type 2. I'm as much relieved as I am anxious about my future. Because, well... before I started to question my inability to see projects to their end once passion fades, I though of my "good days" as my ideal mood... I love me when I am energetic and full of enthusiasm, optimism and positivism. I thought that was the normal me, and in my depressions (longer and longer from age 24) I longed to become that Max again. It was (still is) hard for me to acknowledge hypomania as unhealthy... It still feels like the state I wish I was all the time. I am very confused I'd say.
I thank you for you time, creating this channel and maintaining it. Thank you very much.
I will also take the time to read as much comments as possible as I am looking for hope and comprehension. So thanks to everyone participating on this page.
Greetings from Quebec, Canada
My diagnosis was specified as type 2 as of 2 weeks ago. Stuff is starting to make sense. I have half a year of journaling on my episodes and wondered if something was wrong because there was basically no euthymia at all, then this video helped clear that one up lol. Thanks
(note: I didn't know anything about the disorder at all until june after some wild things happened at the end of may, that's a whole story... I have tons of recordings in my audio journal and went back in time later to fill in some gaps to document the episodes I thought I was having later, before later getting it confirmed by my psychologist and later the psychiatrist who diagnosed type II)
Thank you for your content, Rob. You’re wonderful. I’m Bipolar 2 schizoaffective with chronic anxiety and it sucks balls. You really do help me. Thank you, really, from the very fundament of my self. Love. 💕
Psychosis won't generally come with hypomania
Hi just got diagnosed as having bipolar depression. I have major depressive disorder. I just started medication I’m on antidepressants right now. I’m kind of looking for a support group in New York City. Your videos has really help me try to understand my mental onus diagnosis. Thank you.
Hi Cece, 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. 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
I was diagnosed but never properly treated- finally getting help! Thank you for these videos!!
Thank you for this. Now, at age 33, I was finally diagnosed with bipolar type 2. I've known/suspected this for a few years now (before that I only knew about type 1). I used to be diagnosed with a bunch of stuff, like major depression (at 17), OCD (kind of?), anxiety/panic disorder (because I have/had panic attacks, am catastrophizing and overthinking things), different personality disorders... I'm so glad I found your videos among other information, since the psychiatrists I've had didn't even know bipolar type 2 was a thing.
Thank you for all your help. Capsaine helps with depression. Alot for me with guided meditation and happy music.
I realize this video is over a year old now, but thank you for taking the time to make this series. I'll be checking out the rest of it soon. To those browsing the comments section to try and further relate to your peers, you are not alone and the fact that you found this comment means you have made it through so much. Here is a part of my story.
I had been known to regularly suffer from episodes of depression since I was roughly 10. I remember crying at night, begging God himself to, one way or another, end the torment in my mind. I was never hospitalized, but I was suicidal from that age as well. I was officially diagnosed as BP2 when I was 22. It was a particularly rough time. On top of the diagnosis, I had to end my relationship from not being able to keep up with my girlfriends foray into polyamory and my senior year of college (chemistry is a rather hard major to go for) was getting really difficult. Half my family was almost killed in a traffic collision while on the way to see me. I ended up leaving college after attempting a 5th year. I tried college again twice more before throwing in the towel. I almost consider it inevitable that I'll try again in the future to finish a bachelor's degree. I've been on over a dozen different medications since my first mental health visit when I was young. I abused weed for over a year. After changing to my latest psychiatrist, I weaned off of an SSRI and SSRI withdrawal is most unpleasant to say the least. I've been in treatment for yet another severe depressive episode. I'm a recouped alcoholic. I've been hooked on benzos for anxiety.
And I'm only 27...
I hope you are okay. How are you doing?
I've been recently diagnosed with bipolar 2 and these videos are helping a lot
My wife and I enjoy all the videos that we have seen that you put together because they are informative and it is obvious to anyone that you care a great deal. I am sure we wished we had this back in 2010 when I was diagnosed. I thank GOD for my wife and her help. Between her, a good friend, and JESUS, they kept me from being really destructive. Without the love and prayers, I probably would've at least done something to land me in the hospital. Take care and GOD be with you and your loved ones
Tom Cleverley thank you so much Tom and a very warm welcome to my channel. Stop back by anytime and God bless my friend :-)
I love your videos Sir! You explain the condition so objectively, yet you still maintain the reality that this is still VERY REAL for us..
I’m not diagnosed, as I’m uninsured, but my father was bipolar.
And i know how I feel. I feel very alone in how I feel, but these videos have helped bring some light back into my life!
I've just been diagnosed with type 2. I'm in a major depressive episode right now. I haven't even got the words for it, and to make matters worse, my boss just doesn't get it. This morning I flipped out, crying and shaking and crying. I got told that others are working and I should be helping my colleagues. I thought oh, I'll just turn it off then shall I? Anyway I walked out, called the crisis team and I'm waiting to see someone. Because I don't want to be here. Thank you for your work x
I'm so glad you reached out for help and I hope you received it. I myself was having trouble working and am now on disability for a year. I'm working on getting my meds right and also going to counseling once a week. Maybe it's something that may help? Take gentle care.🙏
- Dianna
Polar Warrior Team Member
For additional content consider joining us on Patreon!
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
Thank you for posting this informative video.
I was diagnosed with Bi-Polar II, with Generalized Anxiety Disorder in 2017 after 15 years of thinking I was "crazy". Just last week 10/18/18, I was hospitalized for facial pain, now after many CT scans and MRI's, I have been diagnosed with Trigeminal Neuralgia.
If you could, make a video about mood disorders along with other simultaneous diseases and their effect on the mood disorder. Thank you
are you still alive bro, because with bipolar, anxiety, and crippling pain like that i woulda kms
@@dingleberryjones09 I’m still alive. Many do die of TN pain, cannot blame them at all. Remember, pain is not forever, nor does pain define who we are. Good doctors, the right medication, and a knowledgeable therapist all help to minimize the pain and depression.
I was recently was diagnosed with type 2 bipolar. For a long time I had a major depressive diagnosis because my hypomanic episodes just felt like bursts of motivation where I would go for long runs or write lots of music. It sucks because during those episodes it feels like I was "faking my depression" and while I'm in a depression I'm mad at myself for "losing motivation"
Diagnosed around 12yrs old. I've only found 2 modalities that helped, no meds ever did, but the modalities aren't always accessible. Maybe i will focus on changing that now that i think of it.
As far as wisdom that has helped, it was from you sir- don't chase the mania
36 now btw, meant to add that
Thank you for sharing your journey with me. I'm glad my advice about not chasing the mania resonated with you. Stay strong!
-Rob
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
I have a son who was diagnosed Bipolar I after being taken from the home in a chapter 51. I spent thousands of dollars with forensic psychologist and other psychiatrist getting a diagnosis for him. He was 43 At the time and effort and previously diagnosed with depression and anxiety panic attacks and ADHD. He was put on meds for bipolar too and just had another psychotic episode a few months ago and was taken out by police again. No harm to himself or others but now they’re wondering if he’s bipolar one. He doesn’t really have continuing care other than a psychiatrist 1x/month for 20 minutes and it’s really really difficult to tell him to keep a log and pay attention to how he’s feeling. He has now been evicted from his apartment after only being in this one for 3 months. Trying to get assistance and get him some benefits is akin to running into a wall. Help! From WI
I'm sorry to hear about this difficult situation with your son. I hope he's able to get the assistance he needs. It might be helpful to have a case worker who can help coordinate care and services. I'm not familiar with what's available in WI and how you go about acquiring one there. You could start with his PCP and see if they can refer you to one or to an agency that provides that type of service. It might be something he can get due to his disabilities. If he's not on disability/SSDI but qualifies for it that might be one route to take, if he's unable to work. That would at least provide some financial assistance but in some states that opens up additional benefits. That can be a tough journey though, getting approved. I've been through that. Finding peer supports for him might help him as well, like a support group setting. All the best to you and your son!- Rachel (Polar Warriors Team Member)
I really appreciate this! Finally got my diagnosis corrected from major depressive. In August 2019, been going to therapy for over 10yrs
THANK YOU SO MUCH. ❤
IT WAS SO HARD FOR ME TO ACCEPT SUCH DIAGNOSTIC. BUT IT WAS BECAUSE I REALLY DIDN'T COMPREHEND THE MENTAL ILLNESS. GOD BLESS. ❤❤❤ ❤❤❤❤
You are so welcome! 🙏 💖
Thank you Rob for these videos. I have Bipolar type 2. I have educated myself over the past 3 decades and have many tools to help manage symptoms. My life was turned upside down 6 years ago. I have been very ill with hypomanic episodes then the crash into months of depression and the tsunamis of distorted thinking, the pain of past trauma ..... anyhoo it is so hard to get professional help, no one is taking new patients blah blah blah. I finally got myself connected, but not a psychiatrist, a nurse practitioner to start medication again (after years of not taking any). Your channel is reminding me of tools that have been practiced by me for a couple decades, but was no longer able to because of the bone crushing depression and the screaming volume in my mind. There are new tools (I take notes of those) that I will start learning, practicing and make part of how I want to manage this illness going forth. Thank you very much for all the varied videos, makes me a wee bit hopeful that some motivation may return for me to manage this current depression and with the medication create some stability.
I'm bipolar 2 with social anxiety 😖😖😖
Me too 🙋🙋🙋
Same
Same!
BP 2 with GAD and Panic disorder. Bloody nightmare but not giving in or up. ☺️✌🏼
Not alone
Thanks again for another great video. My husband is finally out of the hole so he is able to call me now. I have already sent him some of the transcripts from your videos and I will be sending him this one as well. You are awesome, thank you so much!!
Marilyn Melendez-Gamble Yay!!! I’m so glad! Please tell him I personally said hello and that I send him my support in his very difficult situation. Please keep me posted on his progress and what he thinks of the transcripts. What you are doing for him just blows my mind and you are such an amazing person to help him like that. I respect you so much for that. Talk to you soon my friend :-)
Hey i am really enjoying your videos, some great information, i was diagnosed with bipolar eight years ago, the first two years were hard i was hospitalized several times with manic episodes, now though i suffer mostly with depression, i still have some highs but i have learn techniques in therapy to help get any mania under control quick, only problem is depression comes not long after and when this happens i shut down and find most days just to be like a void, i still work but i have trouble making conversation, connecting and forming new relationships with with most people join these periods, does anybody else have this problem.
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
Thank you for all the work you’re doing to help people to understand better about themselves!
Thank you for the support Marco! 🙏
I’m Bipolar Type One
Hi from Florida. Thank you very much for your videos. I myself am Bipolar Type I, I have some other medical conditions including cancer, and I’m disabled. Although I can’t say I had terrible young years, it was difficult dealing with relationships, mood swings, leaving graduate schools twice, etc. Fortunately, I was able to graduate on my third try thanks to my extended maniac episodes. After few years of succeeding in my carrier and life, the cancer came back. This happened after a period of long hours of work at my job. Then everything changed, I entered a period of severe major depression and then I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. After all these years, I’m still struggling with my symptoms, and the lack of understanding and compassion from people, however, I won’t give up.
For someone like me who struggles with bipolar type 2 I love what you do.
A GP diagnosed and treated me for depression when I was 41. The antidepressant prescribed made me much worse, but because I lived alone and it was summertime (I worked in academia so didn't teach in summer), I came perilously close to being suicidal. Almost lost job.
At 48 I was living in a different state, married and had a new GP. He is avidly interested in mental health issues and diagnosed me as type 2 when I came seeking help for an extended depressed period. Even though I had a type 1 grandparent, I never considered the possibility for myself because I never had full blown mania. I was very high functioning though, and teased for my moodiness. I didn't know about hypomania or type 2.
I hate that it took so long to figure this out, but so much makes sense about my life when viewed through this diagnosis. I was clearly this way in childhood too, often sullen and always tired. Still tweaking the meds, it is a process. Thank you for these videos, which is helping educate me and my spouse.
I know how you feel, my life makes sense to me now and I was just diagnosed less than a week ago, in my 40s. I have type 2 as well and I never would have thought of myself as bipolar because I wasn't aware that it was a spectrum disorder until I started reading more about it. I spend a lot of time feeling depressed or having episodes of dysphoric mania which is to say I am not completely out of energy, I'm "buzzing" but it's a terrible buzz, it's full of negativity and self-hatred. I am liable to do things like self-harm or isolate myself because I always feel that people are thinking poorly of me. Life is so hard sometimes but I keep going. God has blessed me with a wonderful, caring husband a beautiful little boy. He's autistic and the light of my world. Good luck on your journey.
Finally coming to terms with my bipolar II diagnosis. I felt like I was faking it. But my last psych appointment reinforced it, especially because we modified my meds and it took me out of breakthrough depression super quick. If I understand correctly, that doesn’t tend to happen with unipolar depression. It’s been difficult because hypomania has been hard to recognize, and I went hypomanic/mixed on Zoloft but that’s the only time I’ve been manic enough to where I’ve noticed it. Not to mention I rapid cycle which makes things more complicated. But I’ve accepted that it’s real. I’m not a screwup. And things will be ok :)
I was just recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder type 2. I really appreciate your videos. On a side note, I also sarcastically say fun stuff and I always get looks.
Zomb then I would think it's an inappropriate response unless you're saying it to people you know have no sense of humor. If it happens often then I would say the latter isn't the issue. Sarcasm is the cousin of anger. Depression is anger turned inward. You may not lack empathy but sarcasm will make it look like you do.
I love your channel.. im trying to get a diagnosis.. I was told cyclothymia but I don't agree with it and thanks to your wonderful channel im able to rationalise my traits and hopefully share my reasoning with my doctor.. I think im type 2.. sending you lots of love.. you are such a great person to provide this resource x
all my life, i was treated for ADHD. it was the 90s so Ritalin, Adderall, Strattera, therapy. i was was a very upbeat person. my hypomanic episodes were mistaken for adhd moments. the first depressive episode was at 14 but didnt affect me hard until about 18 or 20. it was written off as hormone imbalance, obesity factors, aspergers syndrome, or generalized anxiety. it wasnt until i had bariatric surgery and seeing a great therapist that she told me to read about bipolar 2 disorder. it's a relatively new diagnosis so its been hard for me to accept, let alone manage. i was raised to think one of the worst things you could be is bipolar besides full blown psychosis. i feel like a failure as a person. reading and educating myself usually helps me but receiving the bp2 diagnosis has been devastating. i am desperately seeking answers but even in these videos and literature, it seems hopeless. it's a manageable disorder but it can breakthrough the meds, the treatments, etc. i feel like I'll never have a happy life or relationships. I've been able to keep a job with the commonwealth for over 10 years with no major issues but i find that my worst challenges are raising my child and keeping romantic relationships. I'm afraid of not being able to keep fighting the looming suicide idealization that comes with every trigger hit. this has not been a good year.
Hi Rob! Thank you for the videos. I have bipolar tip 2. And your videos its easy to understand and are helping me to understand better the bipolar. Im from Brazil and my english its not so good but I can understand most part of what you are saying. Keep going and thanks again!
I can totally relate to your worrier show. Thank you for sharing this valuable knowledge in such a delightful way
Truly love your channel and love the beautiful backgrounds you been putting :) thanks for such amazing information
Conoce Un Angel Thank you so much my brother. I really appreciate your kind comments and how much you support my channel. You are so awesome Angel and thank you so very much.
Thank you so much , I'm having so much trouble adjusting to my new medicine and coming back or getting stable from a mania state again . so your channel is really helpful to me right now. I feel so much better.
a j I am so glad and that is exactly why I started this channel… To help people not suffer as much as I have. My battle or journey with medications has been rough. My body is extremely sensitive to side effects and it took time for me to find the right medication, but it was so worth the fight! It did not seem like it at the time LOL, but I’m really glad I didn’t give up on trying to live a better life. A very warm welcome to my channel and I hope you will continue to stop back by and learn more with me. :-)
Robert
Thanks!
You are so welcome!
Your channel is great! Thanks for caring enough to help us all 😁
I love birds be free I have become so dedicated to this project. I had no idea the channel would grow as fast as it has, and helping people is truly the greatest reward ever for me. It’s just in my nature to do so and I hope to help as many people as I possibly can! Stop back by anytime and thank you so much for your supportive kind words :-)
Just wanted to thank you for the great work you're doing! Know that you are appreciated
I'm am slightly worried sometimes that I experience hypomania. My depressive episodes end really abruptly (like, one day I'm depressed, the next day I'm fine) and in the weeks / months following a depressive episode I can sometimes be very happy, motivated, energetic, spend more money than usually etc. So, a few days ago, when I couldn't sleep (again) I actually googled the symptoms of hypomania. I don't meet the criteria, so for the time being I am just going to enjoy these awesome months and be glad that I have them :)
imaginareality There are so many different ways that people experience bipolar disorder. Even if you have a specific diagnosis, that doesn’t mean that you won’t experience symptoms that are outside of the diagnosis criteria. What you’re describing sounds a lot like rapid cycling which is what I deal with. I made another video in the series the talks about rapid cycling. Check that one out and see if that helps a little bit. I’m glad you found my channel and stop back by anytime :-)
Same exact situation as well as not meeting criteria
Thank you. My child was recently diagnosed. Your simple explanations have given me a good start, and your calm demeanor is a comfort.
Been BP2 for almost 40 years. With psychosis. Anxiety. Borderline personality disorder among many more. I rapid cycle sometimes daily. I remind myself that I am strong not broken
Right On!
Thank you for another great video!
I have bipolar 2 too. It was mis-diagnosed for 19 years as just being chronically depressed. I look back now and can see all the times i must have been hypomanic, but i had just put it down to really good days/having a 'moment.'
grateful to have found this channel. I was diagnosed with bipolar and borderline when I was very young, maybe 12 or 13 or younger. I threw away my medications when I was a teenager and just told everyone I was fine. I don't have many friends or family so people don't usually see that I definitely still cycle, all the time. I am 30 now and not sure where to get support in my life, but ill just keep moving 1 step at a time. I have very strong suicidal ideation, but I really don't want to reincarnate and have to deal with all this shit even worse... comic relief?
This was extremely helpful and comforting as someone who struggles with bipolar type 2! so thank you for this video, you're content is awesome.
YOU are awesome, thank you for being here! 🙏
Thank you Robert for this informative video and this is definitely me!
Glad it was helpful!
You are truly incredible for putting yourself out there and also helping others along the way. Thank you so much.
I appreciate that! Thank you for subscribing BBED! Love your name!
I’ve been super depressed for about two months or more; I can’t remember. I can’t stand it anymore.
Hi Linda! I am so sorry to hear that you are hurting. Please consider seeing a doctor for some treatment. My psychiatrist told me that any depression lasting longer than two weeks needs a MEd change or adjustment. Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you had a broken leg you would seek help. There are also many new treatments for hard to treat depression out there. I've just started researching microdosing for myself. Please don't give up hope!
Rob also does coaching on patreon if you are interested. Take gentle care.
Dianna, polar warriors
www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors
www.crisistextline.org/
I used to think, before I was educated, that type 1 was worse somehow because of the psychosis part. it scares the shit out of me. However, its pretty clear now that yeah we're all on the same boat, stay strong yall.
I have had a horrible experience with my bipolar two. I struggled for years to figure out what was wrong with me and tried to depend on my friends to help me as I search for help. I finally got help and when I got diagnosed with bipolar two they didn’t believe that’s what it was. I went a year and left therapy believing them. I went through many months in a depressive state that hurt my family and people around me because I could not hardly get myself off the couch or out of bed. Then because of not taking care of myself along with an alcohol problem developing I went into an extreme hypo manic state that lasted over three weeks. I am now in the mixed mania and having difficulty getting out. I am scheduled to start therapy again this week so hoping for hope in the future along with leaving people in the past that did not believe me or help me and only made my situation worse. I have lost family and friends along the way but I am moving forward and hoping for a bright future.
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!
Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member
(H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds
Rob:
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I'm 25 just got diagnosed in February, I'm having a hard time remembering to take medication, I'm always trying to keep myself together I go to the Doctor before the hospital,
I was previously diagnosed with Clinical Depression when I was 15. My symptoms started showing around the age of 14. I had extremely low moods. I started isolating myself in my room and pushed people away. I was often irritable and didn't want to talk to anyone. At other times, I would try to change myself. (Many of my friends thought I had some kind of personality disorder because of this). I started getting into self harm and it got really bad to the point I was self harming every day multiple times. I was going to therapy inconsistently for 2 years and I was put on several medications, but none of them were successful. I remember telling my dad one day that I was so scared something was going to happen to me, and I think a few days to a week later, I was in the hospital for unfortunate reasons.. I was diagnosed with Bipolar 2 just last year. I was put on a medication that started working for me and now I'm over 6 months clean. It's crazy how one pill can change a lot of things. I have had instances where I haven't been able to get my medications and it was terrifying to me for many reasons. I was in the hospital for over a month and when I got out, my boyfriend was waiting for me. I hope that this helps someone. I'm in college right now and I have a 4.0 GPA. I'm very happy that my life isn't over. :)
Thank you my problems started at 16 I'm now 40 I've been diagnosed with stress and anxiety in the past then alcohol dependence now drug missuse people always say I've got slit personality mostly depressed then sometimes loving life like everyone loves being with me someone mentioned bipolar before but I just shrugged then I've recently me a woman who has it and no reason she just says she needs time to think I didn't know what was going on so I looked on here to get an insight so I found your videos and descovered it sounds more like me what I've been through and going through and it's me it makes so much sense but now I'm scared to go to doctors incase he thinks I'm lying just seems he Rush's but its first time it's made sense so now I'm happy but confused thank you
Wayne Coleman Keep stopping by my channel… I will have lots more videos that will help you learn more about Bipolar and make it easier to put into words how you are feeling. If you go to a doctor and they don’t take you seriously, I would absolutely suggest finding another one. I have experienced my share of bad doctors and really take charge of my own health now by demanding the best care possible. We all deserve that :-)
watching this during my hypomanic episode and i know this is an old video of yours but thank you :) our disorder is lesser known and is often seen as a “lesser” version of bp1 which simply isn’t true