#88: Socialize Your Way to a Better Brain

FROM THIS SHOW…

Socializing is one of those topics in mental health where you already know you need to be doing better. But getting in front of real people for any length of time seems impossible these days. Or even enjoyable! It’s no stretch to say that most people with a bipolar disorder have a tense relationship with their social life.

That’s because we can be unstoppable when a spell of hypomania is cast over us, turning us into genuine social geniuses. And if you find yourself with a bipolar depression, the last thing on today’s to-do list is to go and be social with others. No. Today will be spent indoors and likely in bed.

But what about the times when you have no real excuse to turn down a social event? Would you take it? On today’s episode of The Bipolar Now Podcast, Mike shares one simple tactic of the mind to create endless relaxed and enjoyable conversations that are great for our mental health. 

You don’t want to miss it!

Listen to the podcast:

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TAKEAWAYS

• Whenever and wherever you socialize, if you want it to be enjoyable you must adopt a mindset of curiosity. Curiosity is what helps you talk and share past the chit-chat. It’s also what makes you more likable!

• Practice curiosity on your best friends or Lifers. This is a natural way to get into the mindset, since you’re already interested in the people who support you and spend time with you.

• In larger social settings it is easy to become overwhelmed. Remember that YOU are in control how where and how much you socialize. Have a plan and rehearse it in your mind as to how you will interact with the people as well as when you have already decided to leave. But challenge yourself to talk to at least one person you haven’t seen in a while, or even a complete stranger!

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.

“Lifers” are special 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) Were there any people in your childhood that you really liked to socialize with? / What did they do that made you feel that way?

2) Would you consider yourself a social person by nature? / Why or why not?

3) What are your favorite social environments nowadays? / Which social invites do you tend to accept?

4) Where are the social settings that you tend to avoid nowadays? / Do you ever feel like you’re missing out on something?

5) When you hear Mike talk about having “curiosity” for people, what do you feel? / Do you do this naturally, or will it take some work?

6) How can I help you become more social and curious? / Is that something you need?

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!