#133: Why “Sober” is More Serious with Bipolar Disorders

FROM THIS SHOW:

Ever thought you’d be a serious drinker or drug user when you were young? When you’re on the edge of life’s stressors it’s normal AND human to pick up habits that lead nowhere useful.

And if you happen to carry a bipolar diagnosis, you’re exponentially more likely than the general population (and even your own family) to know what that’s like.

There’s a way of describing the huge adjustment process of living with a known and accurately-diagnosed bipolar disorder, and the word “Recovery” is often used in both formal and informal discussions.

But without recovery from drugs or alcohol, there can be zero hope of a true “new you”.

This means you have to take it all the more serious to look at what’s driving you to use any sobreity-impairing substance above and beyond moderation.

But the steep shadows of addiction that are cast behind your sobriety aren’t impossible to step away from in order to walk into a fresh, clean slate and a stellar bill of health.

Today’s show with BPN community “Tribe” leader, James, is the exact turnaround story that will have you looking at new life in the face.

Don’t miss it!

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

• “Addiction” is defined as a compulsive behavior that has negative consequential results. It’s a serious matter and a difficult one to address when you realize it’s the path of what you’re following in this moment.

• Don’t feel defeated if you have struggled with addiction(s), or are currently battling for your sobriety. There are always factors that are out of your control, and help in abundance for these and many other factors.

• For times when you feel pulled back into addiction and compelled to participate again, never hesitate to lean on proven, effective social helps like AA, NA and other compulsive disorder support groups that have local meetings designed with You in mind.

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) What was your earliest memory of something being “compulsive” or addicting? It doesn’t have to be drugs or alcohol.

2) Do you think you have an addictive personality outside of your bipolar-affected mood cycles?

3) At what point would you think it reasonable and wise to seek help for an addictive behavior you’ve developed? / Is there anything that you wish you’d be less attracted to doing or using at this stage in your life?

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!