how do i come up with new ideas for my bipolar support group?
113038
Remember that ALL bi-polars are different.  My step-dad and ex-gf are both type one, and they are completely different.  Most bi-polars don't really understand each other, because anyone with a mental disorder has enough problems dealing with themselves.\n\nI would suggest a peer mediation type of program to give each person a partner to call, if they are having a rough time.  Also, start doing lessons on journaling.  That is the best way for loved ones, as well as doctors, to track how bi-polars feel at certain times.
661534
talk to an adult you trust...they may have ideas
641034
MOST DEFINATELY!  No one understands Bipolar like someone Wwho has it or a family member of someone who has it.  GREAT IDEA!
411821
Plenty try abook and group called emotions anonymous i did and it helped me a lot its a place to vent and get suggestions for living hers one now carry a note[ad and write down thoughts or a to do list it helps to focus when on or off meds  also make one small goal a day and feel good if thats all you get done  thats enough but if you get more done thats gravy and a tasty result to a boring or long day  good luck Im sure theres a site for emotions Anonymous  an olde dude with ,,,,,,,Borderline personality disorder,
1124794
Well, I guess I'm not entirely sure what you are asking, but I assume you are asking how to create an environment for a group of individuals that promotes freeflow of information and ideas.\n\nThe simple answer I have for that is openess and allowing everyone to be heard without quick judgement or overly negative reactions.
1231
I make lists. I write and write and write. I put down all of my feelings and somehow within all of the words, things start to make sense; solutions start to emerge; reason seems to outweigh frustration. Try to write it all down. Try to figure out exactly what it is that has upset you. Then you can be on the read to healing and making things right! :)
396611
I hope that one of the links below will be what you are looking for. I am a 46 year old male who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. I know how you feel and that it is good to have someone to talk to. Good luck. I wish you well!
557196
I have bipolar affective disorder. I actually hate it if i feel I'm getting special treatment from family and coworkers. But i guess there are some who would try and use it to there advantage.
292700
Hi,\n\nBy far the best "support group" I have found was at the Business Owners Idea Cafe, they have so much information as well as the "cybershmooze" which is a forum of like minded people (small and home business owers and people that are aspiring) they have articles with tips, interviews with ideas and inspirations, forms for tax purposes etc. they are great. An dthe popel there are so wonderful, they will give you low cost marketing ideas, help you name your business (if you get brain freeze), give away ideas for prospective businesse and also try to help you avoid the mistakes they made during their own start up phases.\n\nGood Luck
244168
You might want to try the Ft. Worth/Tarrant Co. chapter of the Depressive and Manic Depressive Association.  I think they can be reached at 817-654-7100.  They may be able to steer you toward a support group or others looking for one.  Good luck to you!
386184
I'm not a mental health provider but I've had bipolar disordar for 15 years. There's help out there. Medicines, therapist. Get to a phone book, now! Look up mental health providers and call!  I hope you get a chance to re-read this answer, I've been thinking about you all night. Last week I felt "weird" and ended up talking to a caseworker at my insurance company for thirty minutes until my husband could get home from work. He stayed home for a week to keep me out of the psychiatric ward.  Sometimes desperate times call for desperate measures. e-mail me at mybilbrey@yahoo.com if you need to.  I've been on Social Security for 15 years because I get confused and can't work.  I understand! CJB
146736
I wish there was a book.  I've found the best way is to simply talk to other teachers.  Borrow their ideas and shape them into what will work for you and your class.  It seems like at most staff developments the best you can hope to come away with is a few good ideas.
111040
I have Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, as well as HFA; higher-functioning Autism. \n\nHere are some pointers:\n\n* Show him/her you love them regardless.\n* Listen to him/her, when s/he feels in a low. Support him/her, tell him/her you love them, hug them, cuddle them.\n* Find a good counselor/psychiatrist for the individual's treatment.\n* Help monitor the person's medications. (if needed).\n    Are the medicines helping? If not--recommendations; talk to therapist, counselor, psychiatrist, etc.\n* Find alternatives to self injury--if s/he is a self injurer. \n* During a manic episode (all time natural high), help the person calm down, in order to go to sleep. Cuddle them, hug them, tell them you love them, and do some things to help them get their energy out--such as jogging, running, exercising, so they can relax and rest/go to sleep. \n* Monitor the person while on meds--are they staying up all night? If so, they may be having a manic episode. \n   Is the person moody with you/others? More argumentative? Sad? Depressed? Feelings of misunderstood, hopeless, worthless, and suicidal tendencies? More agitated? Irritated? Is s/he having racing toughts?? -- again, may be manic episodes... --is s/he talking in circles or riddles--cannot slow down? Seems hyper?? -- again, may be manic. \n\nHope this advice helps. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me. Email me anytime at Luvs2Write16@aol.com.\n\nTake care,\n\nMichelle
601433
Try to change things a little at a time - just baby steps. Look for a new role within your work place or maybe a new job. Try to go out once a week, take up an exercise class with friends or go by yourself and try to meet new people.  Look for spirituality, or find something that keeps your soul alive.\nTake up a class or a hobby, find something different or new to do every day. Invite a friend over for dinner, got out for dinner and invite a friend or two.\nTry cognitive behavioural therapy (it can really really help) and look at changing your anti-depressants.\nBest of luck and I hope all goes well in the future...
1117474
As for your supporet group, very simple solution. Start a Yahoo Group, you can each email your daily journal entry to the group and all of you will see it.\n\nYoui can also go to http://www.freeconference.com/ and setup a regular live teleconference where you can all agrrr to call in at the same time and hold a private support call.
1095246
I'm 41 and was diagnosed with Bipolar last year as well.  I can tell you that I experienced the same issues that you are experiencing.  I had the same issues about getting dressed but I had bigger issues with keeping my house clean.  It got so bad that we had to use paper plates.  I spoke to my Psychiatrist about it and he increased the dose of one of my meds. which at least gave me the motivation to get things done.  The other thing that helps me a lot is a list.  Every day I make a list of the things I want to get done that day.  I know it sounds simple but it really does help.  Good Luck.
588523
It's good that you can express your negative perceptions. Maybe you should share them with someone who professionally deals with mood disorders, like a psychologist or a psychiatrist. Best of luck!