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Posts in Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Feb 8, 2026
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By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Coming out of an acute manic episode—especially one that reached psychosis—can feel like waking up after a storm you didn’t know you were in. The world might look unfamiliar, responsibilities may f...
Dec 1, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
The optimal brain chemistry for individuals with bipolar disorder involves balancing key neurotransmitters and brain circuits that regulate mood, cognition, and behavior. Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder th...
Sep 9, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). There are two main types: Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2.
Bip...
Sep 9, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
The saying "you sure can't tell by looking at you" in the context of bipolar individuals typically means that, based on their outward appearance,
one might not be able to discern that they ...
Sep 9, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Refined sugar, corn syrup, and other similar substances can impact bipolar disorder. While they are not direct causes of the disorder, their consumption can influence mood stability and overall mental health. Here...
Aug 29, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Long-term use of lithium, especially over a period of 25 years or more, can have several side effects. It's important to note that not everyone will experience all these side effects, and the severity can vary...
Aug 23, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Embracing your bipolar disorder and wearing it as a badge of honor is a powerful way to take control of your narrative and find strength in your experiences. Here are some steps that might help:
Educate Y...
Aug 17, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Here's a "ride or die" creed tailored for someone with bipolar disorder:
Ride or Die Creed for Bipolar Warriors
Embrace Your Journey: I accept my highs and lows as part of my uniq...
Aug 17, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Managing a condition that involves both acute manic episodes and seizures can be complex, but there are several steps you can take to help manage your health:
Follow Medical Advice: Ensure you follow the ...
Aug 17, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Here are some quotes that might provide comfort and inspiration for someone managing depression, especially in the context of bipolar disorder:
"This too shall pass." – Persian Proverb. A ...
Aug 17, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Managing hand tremors caused by bipolar medications can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can try. Here are some steps that might help:
Consult Your Doctor: The first and most important step ...
Aug 17, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Creating a crisis plan is a proactive and essential step in managing severe mood swings for someone with Bipolar II disorder. Here are some tips to help you develop an effective crisis plan:
Identify Warn...
Aug 17, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Transitioning from low moods to higher moods can be achieved through various self-help methods. Here are some effective strategies:
Practice Gratitude:Keep a gratitude journal and write down things you&rs...
Aug 6, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Here's a brief history of electric shock therapy, also known as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT):
Early Development:
1930s: ECT was first developed in Italy by psychiatrists Ugo Cerletti and Lucio B...
Aug 6, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Auditory hallucinations, where individuals hear voices or sounds that are not present, can be a symptom of various mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression. When these hall...
Aug 6, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
My family knows about my bipolar disorder, but my friends and acquaintances do not.
This is a personal decision and it's completely up to you whether or not you want to share this information with others ou...
Aug 6, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
There is scientific and statistical data on pre-adolescent children relating to bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder in children, particularly before adolescence, is a topic of ongoing research and clinical interest...
Aug 6, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Rebuilding bridges and trust after severe bipolar episodes can be challenging but is definitely possible with patience, understanding, and effort. Here are some steps that can help:
Rebuilding Bridges and Trust:
...
Jul 17, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
Some individuals with bipolar disorder are able to function at a high level due to several factors:
Effective Treatment: Proper management through medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help stabi...
Jul 17, 2024
By Arlen "Buddy" Castenada
The transition from an acute manic phase to depression in bipolar disorder can be quite dramatic and challenging. Here's a description of what this experience might entail:
Manic Phase:
During the manic ...