If you throw around the words 'psychotic' or 'delusional' to describe someone you disagree with, or roll it out when you've been hurt or upset - then you can't call yourself a mental health advocate, or say that you care about mental health. There, I've said it. People have said to me, "But surely delusional [...]
Tag: Bipolar
Hiding Behind A Smile
What do these photos say to you? You probably see a happy, smiling young person, enjoying life. The reality is I was ill in each of these photos. I'd either just had a diagnosis of bipolar, or was about to be diagnosed. You can't see it, but I was all over the place mentally - [...]
How to Help Someone with Bipolar Disorder
I've had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder since 2012. It's been a rough journey and I'm still learning more about the condition, even now. My loved ones have been on the ride along with me, and we've had to learn together how they can best support me. I've put together what I believe helps - [...]
Stop Romanticising Mental Illness
Mental illness should never be something to aspire to. Making it seem cute, romantic, or beautiful distorts what it actually is; scary, lonely and ugly. When I see someone in the public eye talk about how an illness is beautiful, or whatever other positive word they want to use, it cultivates the idea that mental [...]
Managing Sleep
I know a ton of us, especially right now when we're under lockdown, are struggling to get a good night's kip. How can a lack of sleep affect us? I'll also look at some tips and advice that have helped me along the way. Why is sleep so important? Sleep refreshes us, it keeps us [...]
Bipolar Myths Debunked
People with Bipolar disorder are just moody There's an idea that bipolar disorder is just mood swings - something everybody has, so isn't a big deal. It is though, very different from everyday mood changes. The highs and lows are extreme and can feel like they come out of the blue, or there is no [...]
No, that person you disagree with isn’t delusional
As someone that experiences actual delusional thinking, it's difficult to hear people using the word to describe someone they disagree with. By using this term all you're doing is insinuating our symptoms are synonymous with badness. I live with Bipolar disorder, with psychotic symptoms. When I have an episode of bipolar mania, I might become delusional. [...]
How to help someone before and during a manic episode
Make a Plan. Before an episode of mania starts, make a plan together. First off, they'll be more receptive to your ideas. They'll be more in control and be able to look objectively at previous episodes of mania. Decide together what will help them, and what support and help they want when they are seriously [...]
I’m Writing A Book!
Yep, the secret is out! I've been offered a publishing contract with Jessica Kingsley Publishers to write a book about bipolar disorder. The book is going to be a practical guide to bipolar disorder. I'll offer tips and advice on how to navigate daily life and how to manage symptoms. All of this will [...]
Bipolar and Credit Cards, Loans and Debt
Mania for me always leads to overspending. I'll spend an exorbitant amount of money on useless, meaningless stuff. Shoes, bags, clothes, collectible toys, lego figurines (yes, really), games consoles, hotel rooms - I could go on and on. I'm not a materialistic person by nature, but with mania I just can't help myself. It's an [...]
