FROM THIS SHOW:

*Note that an error was recorded in this original-airing episode about the number of Unique algorithmic downloads of this show, compared to the IAB (Interactive Advertising Bureau) number of downloads. Mike estimated a total of half a million listens over the lifetime of the show. However, that figure cannot be verified with the hosting service and various feed metrics reported and is therefore being corrected in a forthcoming follow-on summary to this final episode of The Bipolar Now Podcast.

And now, for the News:

After THREE solid years of podcasting and learning the ropes of broadcasting excellence, Mike has picked up a mountain of encouraging words and stories. If you are the person who wonders if they can STILL make their visions and dreams become reality, then you are certain to be delighted today.

He shows once and for all the Path that so many “warriors” before him have gone—that there IS a way through these everyday nightmares of manic-depression, EVEN WHEN there seems to be no way! The messy-ness of mental illness and all of the overwhelm doesn't get its final say.

Don’t miss out on this final, action-packed celebration 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

• Getting things done when you have bipolar depression is like trying to go to work when you have a head cold, or any physical ailment that robs your focus and energy.

• Getting things done when you have a depressive or manic anxiety-attached symptom cycle is equally difficult, so give yourself grace and a “high-five” for never giving up and sticking to your go-to strategies for wellness recovery. (See episodes 144 and 145 for assistance here.)

• Having manic-depressive symptoms makes your brain and body much more sensitive, emotional and distressed. Be sure to pick a long range goal that you can modify and adjust to when you inevitably cycle in the illness. You won’t love the journey, but you’ll be proud of the progress! That’s a promise!!

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 you’ll want to have over and over, and they are found on most episodes under this “Podcast Guides” blog. Use them as your companion to great talking points if you have a dedicated Lifer or a respected therapist.

“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) Have you been holding yourself back from taking action on a dream or a calling in your life now that you know you have a bipolared diagnosis?

2) What scares you the most about committing to a fresh vision for your life in this season you’re in?

3) How would it make you feel if I were to personally walk alongside you in this struggle? / Would you let me do that with you?

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YOUR FREE BONUS GUIDE

Don’t forget to grab today’s companion PDF guide to see how a simple outline of progress happens for anyone who has to live with a manic-depressive disorder. Get it here.

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!