#102: The Life-Saving Power of Stacking Small Habits

FROM THIS SHOW…

When you’re going through a bipolar depression, does it ever bring you to the breaking point? Like you just can’t find enough energy and will to maintain course? Sometimes though, you can. Have you sat down to figure out the reasons why? They might be hidden in plain sight.

Having a bipolar disorder means getting exposed to bad habits when you’re low on energy and trying to weather a depression. It also means being presented with a litany of bad choices when you’re at the other side of spectrum and dealing with more energy than you even have space for.

The power of habits is what we’re discussing on today’s episode of The Bipolar Now Podcast. When you take the time to build up a “playbook” on bipolar depression and its symptoms, you are harnessing the power of habits to gain back your sanity.

Don’t miss out on this breakthrough episode!

Listen to the podcast:

Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts!  With every past episode at your fingertips, plus special Bonus Content with my guests, what's not to love! And if you're feeling generous, would you please leave me a review? It is a special treat to read each and every one of them. Just write about your favorite part of the show! :-) 

TAKEAWAYS

• When you fall into a rut, and you feel like you can’t get out, you have to call upon some higher habits. It’s almost impossible to create these habits when you’re sick (with depression, for instance). That’s why you must develop good daily habits when you’re well enough for them to take root.

• It’s normal to want to give up, even when you have your stack of habits to call upon. Even though it makes your skin crawl, try to push through with as many “normal” daily activities and responsibilities as possible. Know that this is also a great time to evaluate your commitments, and either let some go, or push “pause” until you can return afresh.

• The power of Habits are in their ability to help you do things almost subconsciously. That goes both ways for habits that are healthy for you, and those that are less than productive. Be aware of what you’re choosing to do subconsciously when you’re suffering with bipolar symptoms like lethargy and apathy and living in dread of your responsibilities.

Lifer Discussion Guide

Use the questions in today’s Lifer Guide to assist you over any hurdles you may have to clear as you address your mental health. These are special conversations!

“Lifers” are people who have unwavering faithfulness. This assures you that they’ll stick by you through all the highs and lows that are normal for a life with mental health challenges. If you haven’t nominated a lifelong family member or friend as part of your non-medical support team, what are you waiting for? :-)

The Questions:

1) Mike talked about his childhood problem with Anger, and how it became a habit for him. Can you think of anything you did as a young person that became a bad habit for you? / What did you used to do?

2) When you were young, did you tend to pick up bad habits from others? / What habits can you still detect in your life that are carry overs from youth?

3) Do you have any good habits that have followed you into adult life?

4) How would it help you if you had a “playbook” of good habits for when you feel yourself getting sick with bipolar disorder?

Join the Tribe!

Once you’ve had a chance to talk or journal about these things you might have a question from this episode. If so, make sure you head on over to The Bipolar Now Podcast Network on Facebook! There’s quite a few people over there who are also taking a new step in their mental health. And we’d love for you to share your story with us when you’re ready. So don’t miss out!