"I was diagnosed with Bipolar 2 and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCPD) in 2016, after struggling with it - unbeknownst to me - for years. While I was in a gnarly mixed episode during my graduate program, I did a lot of things and acted in a lot of ways that hurt people I cared about … Continue reading Ways to say I love you
Tag: Mental illness
Time does not heal
Having the ability to address your feelings does. Accepting accountability does. Cutting out negative behaviors and people do. Recognizing your mental health is a priority does. Time made me realize that wounds can become worse if I'm not proactive. Be proud of everything you have accomplished no matter how small. Time taught me that life … Continue reading Time does not heal
Exhaustion
Over the years, I've learned how to recognize different types of exhaustion. They were not all the same and therapy helped me learn how to identify as they each needed different solutions. I want to focus on emotional and mental exhaustion. They may sound the same, yet they require different ways to handle them for me. … Continue reading Exhaustion
Regaining
Sometimes seeking treatment is about regaining your voice and your power. At times we may think that no one cares how we feel, so we hold in. We sit with these feelings that continue to weigh us down. My power comes from working through these feelings and my voice allows me to release them. Everything … Continue reading Regaining
Forgiveness is not mandatory
While forgiveness can lead to healing, it can also keep you stuck. When it comes to others, you can't force people to accept responsibility. You can't make someone feel regret, remorse, or empathy. Given your lack of control, you can't make someone forgive for their actions. I struggled with this a lot as a very … Continue reading Forgiveness is not mandatory
Preparation with flexibility
Over the last couple years, I've grown to understand how to manage my episodes better. This has been interesting because when I was younger, I lived with a fear that as I age it would get harder. Personally, learning how to manage bipolar episodes has been accepting preparation with flexibility. This summer has been busy. … Continue reading Preparation with flexibility
Saying yes
Life got busy and just trying to manage it all, I had to take a break. With the break, I learned the importance of saying yes. Yes to things I was afraid to do. Yes to new roles with my career. Yes to trying to maintain certain relationships. Yes to do what I want with … Continue reading Saying yes
