#69: Loneliness is not a Verb (But It Does Hit)
Jul 16, 2020
FROM THIS SHOW…
How in the world did we ever get to a place where isolation and loneliness run rampant? If you have a bipolar disorder, chances are your social scene was not lighting you up pre-COVID-19. Your relationships might have been dashed on the rocks. But now we’re onto a whole new level.
Where exactly did things go wrong? Uncovering the layers might reveal what you already suspect to be true: that doing life with real mental illness means being exposed to much more isolation than you bargained for. Even when you’re surrounded by loved ones and company, we just feel… alone.
On today’s episode of The Bipolar Now Podcast, Mike jumps in with some incredible Listener stories from the friends of this show. Inside, you’ll find out just how nuanced and diverse this emotional void can be for many.
And you’ll find that maybe when all is said and done, you’ll be alright.
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
-
Loneliness is an epidemic experienced by many. But having a mental illness tends to exaggerate the depth and pain of 21st-century post-COVID loneliness.
-
Oftentimes bipolar disorder can create fractures in friendships and marriages. Being single and having bipolar create a perfect storm for loneliness.
-
Even if you get regular exposure to fulfilling friends and family, you can still feel misunderstood and alone. Having people who truly empathize with you is a wonderful goal in this illness.
Lifer Discussion Guide
Use the questions in today’s Lifer Guide to help you out with this intimidating and often infuriating reality, which is loneliness.
“Lifers” are special people who have unwavering faithfulness. This assures you that they’ll stick around 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) When you were a kid, can you remember a time where you actually “felt” being alone?
2) Did you like that sensation? / Or did you try to get rid of it?
3) How lonely are you nowadays? / Tell me your rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with a 10 being extremely and overwhelmingly lonely?
4) Are you able to determine where the source(s) of loneliness come from for you?
5) Is there anything you find annoying or frustrating when it comes to being emotionally lonely and not liking it?
6) Are you looking to get rid of loneliness, or are you OK with it?
7) Let’s say you do want to lower the amount of loneliness you feel. Are you convinced there’s a way to do this?
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!
Other ways to enjoy this episode
