this is bipolar

What if the story of bipolar disorder was told not just through textbooks—but through real people, real lives, and real hope? In this deeply moving and insightful episode, Shaley sits down with author Sarah Schley and filmmaker Bonnie Weltch to talk about Brainstorm, a powerful new documentary that brings together lived experience and cutting-edge science to reshape how we understand bipolar disorder. Sarah shares her personal journey—what it was like to live for 25 years without the correct diagnosis of bipolar II, the toll that took, and what finally changed. She opens up about turning decades of pain, confusion, and stigma into her memoir, and ultimately into a film designed to reach people all over the world. Bonnie takes us behind the scenes of creating a documentary from the ground up—what it takes to commit years to one story, how they found and chose the individuals featured in the film, and why it was so important to weave together both human stories and scientific research. The result is a film that doesn’t just inform—it connects, validates, and inspires. Together, they explore the realities of bipolar II, including why it’s so often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, and why it is not a “lesser” form of bipolar disorder. They also dive into fascinating, evidence-based science featured in the film—from genetics and brain function to circadian rhythms—and how this research can actually translate into practical, everyday strategies for staying well. This conversation also highlights something many people living with bipolar struggle with: the ongoing nature of the illness. Even when things look “together” on the outside, there is often continuous effort behind the scenes—protecting sleep, maintaining routines, advocating for needs, and staying aware of early warning signs. Sarah and Shaley speak candidly about what it really takes to live well, and why self-advocacy is not selfish—it’s essential. Most importantly, this episode is filled with hope. Through storytelling, community, and science, it reminds us that while bipolar disorder is complex and lifelong, it is also manageable—and a full, meaningful life is possible. Whether you live with bipolar, love someone who does, or simply want to better understand it, this episode will leave you feeling more informed, more connected, and less alone. YOU can watch Brainstorm on World Bipolar Day 🌍 Get your ticket here (there is a sliding scale to make is accessible to all) Brainstorm World Bipolar Day Screening Chapter Markers: (00:06:12) Meet the Voices Behind BrainstormSarah and Bonnie share how a memoir turned into a global documentary project (00:11:48) 25 Years to Diagnosis: The Reality of Bipolar IIWhy bipolar II is often missed—and the cost of getting it wrong (00:18:55) From Book to Film: Taking the Story WorldwideThe leap from personal story to powerful, large-scale impact (00:26:40) Blending Science + Lived ExperienceWhy this film weaves real stories with research—and why that matters (00:34:22) The Science That Changes EverythingCircadian rhythms, brain function, and what we can actually do to stay well (00:44:05) Living Well with Bipolar: Boundaries, Routine & HopePractical strategies, self-advocacy, and a reminder you’re not alone Bonnie Waltch is the director, producer, and writer of BrainStorm, a feature-length documentary film about the bipolar spectrum. She is the award-winning senior producer and writer of the one-hour PBS and international broadcast documentary, Earth Emergency, and series of five short films, Climate Emergency: Feedback Loops, narrated by Richard Gere. She has worked on a variety of science series for PBS and the Discovery Channel, and has produced, directed, and written short films for museums around the U.S. Sara Schley is the author of the memoir BrainStorm: From Broken to Blessed on the Bipolar Spectrum which inspired BrainStorm the documentary. Her mission in both the book and the film is to end stigma, sa

In this powerful and practical conversation, Shaley sits down with therapist and author Diana Partington to unpack what Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) actually is—and why it can be a game-changer for people living with bipolar disorder. Diana shares her deeply personal story of living with suicidality for decades before discovering DBT, the therapy that finally gave her the “toolbox” she had been searching for. Together, Shaley and Diana explore how DBT differs from traditional CBT, why mindfulness doesn’t mean “emptying your mind,” and how skills like Wise Mind, emotional regulation, and the PLEASE skill can help stabilize mood, increase awareness, and create buffer zones before episodes escalate. This episode is a relatable, stigma-breaking look at learning skills after years of thinking you already should know them—and how small, practical tools can make a life-saving difference. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone with bipolar disorder, or looking for concrete strategies that actually work in real life, this conversation brings hope, validation, and actionable insight. ⏱️ Key Moments (00:10:32) Why DBT felt different from every therapy Diana had tried before(00:13:48) The “toolbox” metaphor—and why skills matter more than insight alone(00:18:21) How DBT was originally developed to treat suicidality, not just diagnoses(00:22:05) The problem with CBT for highly sensitive or suicidal individuals(00:26:40) The DBT philosophy: therapists are not the experts—you are(00:30:12) Understanding Emotion Mind, Reasonable Mind, and Wise Mind(00:34:55) Can you access Wise Mind during bipolar symptoms? Practical realities(00:39:18) Catching hypomania early: recognizing patterns “at the beginning of the curve”(00:44:02) The PLEASE skill explained—why sleep, medication, and routine are foundational(00:49:27) Mindfulness redefined: it’s not meditation, it’s learning to observe your mind Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you could give a five star review so it can reach people that need it. You can also share this conversation with someone who could use a few more tools in their toolbox—and remember: skills can be learned at any stage of the journey. We have a peer support group on instagram and you are invited to connect on IG: @this.is.bipolar Want to connect or work with Shaley? email thisisbipolarpodcast@gmail.com Buy "DBT for Life" by Diana Partington here Register for Online Workshops More about Diana: Diana Partington is a licensed professional counselor and author of DBT for Life: Skills to transform the way you live. She offers online DBT skills classes, workshops, and training for clients and clinicians across North America. She wrote her master’s thesis at Vanderbilt on effectively teaching DBT skills for different learning styles. Passionate about making DBT skills accessible to everyone, Diana also speaks at major conferences and provides bespoke training for mental health professionals. Her website, DBTforLife.com (https://dbtforlife.com/talking-and-training/www.DBTforLife.com), is a hub of information about Dialectical Behavior Therapy, her educational offerings, her book, and her podcast "Suffering Optional: DBT and the Dharma" You can also connect with Diana on IG @sufferingoptional.

In this deeply honest episode of this Is bipolar, Shaley sits down with a guest Jess who shares her lived experience of being diagnosed with bipolar I after antidepressant-induced mania and psychosis in college — and what it took to rebuild a life of stability, work, love, and motherhood. Together, they unpack what psychosis and mania actually feel like in the body, how symptoms can be rooted in reality, and why bipolar disorder is better understood as a spectrum rather than a box. The conversation moves through medication missteps, the fear of hospitalization, suicidal ideation, and the long road to finding the right psychiatrist and treatment. They also dive deeply into parenthood with bipolar disorder — pregnancy decisions, staying on medication, sleep protection, guilt, support systems, and why putting your mental health first is putting your child first. This episode is validating, nuanced, and full of moments that will resonate with anyone living with bipolar disorder — or loving someone who is. this is bipolar... Chapter markers: (00:07:00) Childhood trauma & missed signs (00:14:20) When psychosis first hit (00:18:30) The phone call that saved her (00:22:30) Living in constant cycling (00:30:20) The meds that changed everything (00:33:30) Inside bipolar psychosis (00:48:30) Bipolar isn’t black & white (01:06:00) Motherhood with bipolar Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar Be sure to sign up for my newsletter at thisisbipolar.com Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Much love, Shaley xo MEET JESS: Jess Curtis was diagnosed with bipolar 1 during her sophomore year of college. After a decade of ineffective treatment and poor self-care, she achieved stability by self-advocating for better medication and making healthy lifestyle changes. As a bipolar advocate, Jess strives to be the friend and mentor she needed when she was first diagnosed with bipolar. On her YouTube channel Our Bipolar (https://youtube.com/@ourbipolar), she posts videos to break stigma, offer support, and promote better understanding of bipolar disorder. She also shares her story with high school and college students as part of NAMI's In Our Own Voice program and has been a keynote speaker at mental health events. You can find her on Facebook and Instagram at OurBipolar. Jess lives in Pittsburgh with her husband Bryan, daughter Pearson, and dog Lucy. She works for a nonprofit as assistant managing editor for scientific journals.

In this BEST of 2023 bonus episode, Coping with Christmas, mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Charise Jewell revisit one of our most-loved holiday conversations about navigating the season while living with bipolar disorder. Shaley and Charise share personal experiences, practical strategies, and honest reflections on what has helped them manage — and sometimes even enjoy — the holidays. From laugh-out-loud moments (yes, hypomanic stocking-stuffing made the cut) to deeply heartfelt stories, this episode offers real-life insight into the traditions that worked… and the ones that absolutely didn’t. Charise was one of the very first guests on This Is Bipolar, so listeners are encouraged to check out her original “Conversations With” episode to hear her full story. Charise is honest, kind, and deeply resilient. Her openness about her diagnosis — both online and in her book Crazy; A Memoir of a Mom Gone Mad — continues to pave the way for all of us to bravely share our own journeys. CHAPTER MARKERS: Here is the list of chapter markers: * (00:00:09) Welcome to Conversations With * (00:00:42) Tips for Surviving Holidays * (00:05:10) Changes in Family Dynamics * (00:06:25) The Importance of Saying No * (00:08:32) Managing Holiday Indulgences * (00:15:53) Navigating Family Gatherings * (00:28:23) Creating New Traditions * (00:47:40) Finding Moments of Joy * (01:00:26) Embracing Small Acts of Joy * (01:07:43) Encouragement for Those Struggling ✨ Tips sprinkled throughout this BEST OF episode include: • Make a list of the things you actually want to do so you don’t overbook yourself with obligations driven by “everyone else.” • Know your capacity — and plan your holiday activities within it. • Identify your triggers ahead of time. Note what worked and what didn’t in past years, and create a plan for situations that may arise at mandatory family gatherings. Be sure to listen for how Shaley navigates conversations around race, gender, and politics — having a prepared phrase can help diffuse tense moments. • Find a place of refuge when you need a break — even if your only options are the bathroom or your car. • Drive your own vehicle or arrange your own transportation so you can step out, take a breather, or leave if things become overwhelming. • Schedule time for small moments of joy — even the little things count. • Be honest. You don’t have to pretend to be holly-jolly if you’re not. Often, honesty opens the door to deeper connection — chances are, others feel the same way. • Have safe people you can check in with who remind you how loved you are. If that feels hard, connecting with others online who live with mental illness can be incredibly validating. You’re always welcome to message Charise or me on Instagram — we’re happy to listen or offer encouragement. …and so much more. This is Bipolar. 🤍 A note from Shaley To my listeners — thank you for being here. If this episode or this podcast means something to you, I would be so grateful if you’d favourite this account and follow/subscribe to the This Is Bipolar podcast wherever you listen, so you never miss an episode. Leaving a 5-⭐️ review also helps this podcast reach those who need it most. If you’d like deeper conversations and more access to my guests and community, head over to @this.is.bipolar on Instagram and become a subscriber. There are so many extras that come along with it. Thank you for supporting me and this podcast 🤍— Shaley 🌿 Meet Charise A voracious reader and aspiring writer since childhood, Charise Jewell was born in Germiston, South Africa, and immigrated to Canada at age seven. She holds an Honours B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering from McGill University and spent fifteen years working as a robotics engineer before becoming a writer. Charise proudly lives with bipolar I disorder and advocates for the fair and dignified treatment of people living with mental illness. She lives in Toronto with her husband and three children. 🔗 Learn more at AN

Join Shaley Hoogendoorn and Dr. Andrea Vassilev as they share about their TRAVEL UPDATES and what strategies they used to manage their mood disorders. Shaley and Andrea share first‑hand experiences of traveling with Bipolar this summer and fall— from attending an international conference in Japan to a family camping trip. They discuss planning, managing time‑zone changes, medication paperwork, sleep strategies, and setting expectations. The episode offers concrete tips: prepare your circadian rhythm in advance, carry backup sleep meds, check consulate rules for prescriptions, prioritize rest around events, and use “change from baseline” to detect risky behavior. They also emphasize flexibility, peer support, and gentle self‑compassion during and after trips. Tune in for vulnerable and relatable stories, practical hacks for holiday and business travel, and encouragement to connect with community resources and peer groups. Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar Be sure to sign up for my newsletter at thisisbipolar.com to get a free "Bipolar Travel Toolkit" PDF to help you prepare ahead and manage bipolar disorder while traveling. Chapter Markers: (00:02:58) Andrea's Upcoming Book (00:03:07) Andrea's Trip to Japan (00:10:35) Medication Challenges (00:14:20) Importance of Prevention (00:16:26) Conference Experience (00:21:11) Planning for Business Trips (00:27:04) Post Travel Reflections (00:28:17) Shaley's Camping Trip (00:34:17) Balancing Expectations (00:37:23) Memorable Moments Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Much love, Shaley xo More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness. Meet our Guest Co-Host: Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com. Be sure to pre-order Dr. Andrea's book - releases July 1st 2026 Beyond the Bipolar Label: A Workbook to Overcome Self-Stigma, Break Free from Shame and Live Authentically Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.

(BEST OF 2022) Tune in for part 2 of episode 19... as mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft as they tackle the tricky topic of supporting a loved one who is dealing with a mental health struggle. They share lived experiences about ghosting, clinginess, setting healthy boundaries, and the shame and guilt that can follow mood episodes. The episode offers practical tips for friends and loved ones—keep reaching out with no-pressure check-ins, use code words or simple responses, accept a clear "no," and prioritize self-care—along with suggestions for how people with bipolar can communicate needs and build supportive connections. It is Julie and Shaley's greatest hope that this episode offers insight and encouragement to those with mental health struggles, as well as everyone living & loving alongside. this is bipolar... Connect with Shaley & 'this is bipolar' team here: this is bipolar website IG @this.is.bipolar (00:05:19) The Role of Ultimatums (00:07:39) Loneliness in Supporting Someone (00:09:45) Stigma and Seeking Help (00:15:36) Examples of Setting Boundaries (00:21:58) Compassion in Difficult Moments (00:25:56) Reassurance and Connection Besties!!!!!!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this throwback episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Reach out for support if you or someone you know is struggling—help is available and recovery is possible Much love, Shaley xo Connect with us: thisisbipolar.com IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar Thank you for listening to "This is Bipolar." Stay tuned for more episodes and conversations that break the stigma and build understanding.

In this episode of This Is Bipolar, host Shaley Hoogendoorn sits down with Cuban-American spoken-word poet and mental health advocate Dailyn Santana to share her powerful lived experience with bipolar I disorder. Dailyn opens up about the earliest signs she noticed in middle school, the challenges of navigating undiagnosed symptoms, and a significant manic episode that led to hospitalization during college. She reflects on how these experiences shaped her family life, her cultural identity, and her ongoing journey through stigma and misunderstanding. Through her story, Dailyn highlights the healing power of poetry, community, and compassion. Together, Shaley and Dailyn explore the importance of peer support, advocacy, and authentic storytelling in recovery, while also unpacking the complex intersection of creativity, culture, and mental health. This candid conversation offers both hope and honesty — showing how art can be a lifeline, a way to reclaim identity, and a tool to shift the conversation around bipolar disorder. What you’ll hear in this episode: Dailyn’s early signs and symptoms of bipolar I during adolescence The impact of manic episodes and hospitalization on her life and relationships How stigma and cultural expectations shaped her mental health journey The role of poetry and spoken word in expressing truth and finding community The power of peer support, advocacy, and compassion in recovery A hopeful look at how art can change the mental health conversation Be sure to listen at (00:49:23) hear the most beautiful and encouraging poem. It may or may not have brought Shaley to tears.Her words are raw, vulnerable, and powerful. this is bipolar... About Today’s Guest:Dailyn Santana is a Cuban-American poet, actress, motivational speaker, and truth-teller mental health advocate from Elizabeth, New Jersey. Through spoken word and storytelling, she shares her lived experience with bipolar I disorder, blending vulnerability with strength and art with activism. Her work has resonated on both intimate stages and national platforms, raising awareness, breaking stigma, and inviting others to find healing and connection through honesty and creativity. You can connect with Dailyn here: dailynsantana.com linkedin: Dailyn Santana Instagram: Dailyn Santana TikTok: Dailyn Santana Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Much love, Shaley xo More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness. Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle. #thisisbipolar #bipolar #bipolardisorder #bipolarawareness

Join hosts Shaley Hoogendoorn and Dr. Andrea Vassilev as they delve into the complexities of traveling with Bipolar Disorder in this enlightening episode of 'this is bipolar'. Together, they explore how changing time zones and disrupted routines can impact mental health, offering practical tips to manage these challenges. They share personal stories and expert insights on maintaining balance and stability while traveling, ensuring that your adventure is both memorable and manageable. Discover strategies for regulating your body's internal clock, managing overstimulation, and finding downtime for self-care even amidst the excitement of travel. Shaley and Andrea underscore the importance of self-awareness, planning, and kindness towards oneself, creating a roadmap for travellers with Bipolar Disorder to feel empowered rather than overwhelmed. Tune in for an open, supportive conversation that empowers listeners to embrace travel with confidence and self-compassion. Resources Mentioned: Be sure to sign up for my newsletter at thisisbipolar.com to get a free "Bipolar Travel Toolkit" PDF to help you prepare ahead and manage bipolar disorder while traveling. Jet Lag Rooster Chris Aiken Jet Lag Document Chapter Markers: (00:04:15) Challenges of Travel (00:06:26) The Impact of Social Rhythms (00:09:27) Substance Use on Vacation (00:10:36) Personal Travel Stories (00:15:25) Comfort Items and Coping (00:20:17) Managing Physical Wellbeing (00:24:49) Navigating Support at Airports (00:40:40) Encouragement and Empowerment Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Much love, Shaley xo More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness. Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle. Meet our Guest Co-Host: Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.

Throwback to a BEST OF episode-Join mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft as they tackle the tricky topic of supporting a loved one who is dealing with a mental health struggle. ... It is Julie and Shaley's greatest hope that this episode offers insight and encouragement to those with mental health struggles, as well as everyone living & loving alongside. This is bipolar... Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar thisisbipolar.com Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Much love, Shaley xo More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness. Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.

In this episode, mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft discuss hypomania. For them, hypomania has two sides- the bright but also the dark. In this follow-up to episode 11, they share what it feels like in their minds and bodies when the destructive side of hypomania rears its head. What are the problems & pitfalls? In what ways are their lives, and the lives of those around them, affected the most? Listen in as Shaley and Julie also share about how they spot warning signs and now manage the messy parts of hypomania. It is their greatest hope that this episode gives a real-life glimpse into the rocky side of the rollercoaster that is hypomania. This is bipolar... (00:03:42) The challenges of unmanaged hypomania (00:06:37) Before medication: Hypomania's effects (00:15:01) The journey of self-awareness (00:19:53) Understanding anger & rage (00:23:02) Balancing creativity & family (00:32:44) The importance of boundaries (00:38:12) Navagating self expectation & growth If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there. We are all in this together. Love, Shaley *Note: Hypomania is a lesser form of mania and a symptom of Bipolar 2 Disorder. Neither Julie nor Shaley have had a full-blown manic episode and cannot speak to that experience. Mania and Hypomania have a shadow side and in no way do they want to glorify it. Please know that we take hypomania very seriously and are committed to their treatment plans, which for them includes medication. #thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarvlog #thisisbipolarpodcast

In this brief episode, host Shaley shares an honest update on her current battle with a challenging mixed episode of Bipolar 2 Disorder. Shaley opens up about the emotional and physical toll it has taken, offering insights into the realities of living with bipolar disorder. Amidst overwhelming feelings and fluctuating symptoms, Shaley discusses the importance of self-care, reaching out for support, and the difficulty of balancing work and personal life during such episodes. She highlights her commitment to sharing experiences to reduce stigma and foster understanding. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the community on Instagram and participate in peer support initiatives, reinforcing the strength found in shared experiences. Stay connected for upcoming episodes featuring special guests and continue on this journey of understanding and empathy together. this is bipolar... If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there. We are all in this together. Love, Shaley

Welcome to another episode of "This is Bipolar," where host Shaley Hoogendoorn delves into personal experiences and insights about living with bipolar 2 disorder. Shaley an advocate, teacher, wife, and mother, shares her own journey alongside guest Sara Schley, who brings her perspective as an entrepreneur and grandmother living with the condition. In this episode, they discuss the profound impact of proper diagnosis and the often-long journey to receiving it, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nuances of bipolar disorders, particularly bipolar 2. Shaley and Sara explore the misconceptions about bipolar depression, the challenges of parenting with a mental health condition, and the crucial role of community support in healing and empowerment. Through candid conversation, they aim to break down stigma, offer a supportive hand to those struggling, and showcase how creativity and resilience can emerge even in the face of adversity. Sara also shares information about her upcoming documentary film "Brainstorm," which promises to highlight inspiring stories and cutting-edge research on bipolar disorder. this is bipolar... Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar thisisbipolar.com (00:07:35) Understanding Hypomania (00:11:16) Navigating Anger & Shame (00:12:58) The Reality of Bipolar Depression (00:19:14) Coping with Chronic Mental Illness (00:22:34) Discussing Parenting and Bipolar (00:26:22) The Weight of Suicidal Thoughts (00:39:46) The Making of the BrainStorm Film Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Much love, Shaley xo About Our Guest: Sara Schley is the author of the acclaimed memoir, BrainStorm: From Broken to Blessed on the Bipolar Spectrum. She is a business consultant, speaker, and author who has led organizational transformations at renowned companies around the world. She is a mother, grandmother, community leader, and has been married to a great guy for twenty-six years. She also has a Bipolar II brain, on the Bipolar Spectrum. Sara has kept this mostly a secret for four decades. Until now. She is choosing to tell her riveting story – from broken to blessed – to save lives, end stigma, and optimize healing for millions. Sara is also the leader of Seed Systems, an international consulting collaborative that she founded in 1994 to create a regenerative, inclusive, and kinder world. She has worked with over 50 enterprises and 1000s of individuals in every sector. A social change entrepreneur, Sara has also co-founded several networks including The SoL Sustainability Consortium, Women in Power, and most recently, WeTheChange. Sara has written two previous books: The Necessary Revolution: How Individuals and Organizations Are Working Together to Create a Sustainable World (Doubleday, 2008), based on her experience convening the SoL Sustainability Consortium and co-authored with business guru Peter M. Senge, and others which was translated into 10 languages; and Secrets of the 7th Day: How Everyone Can Find Renewal Through the Wisdom and Practices of the Sabbath (White Cloud Press, 2014). She has two new manuscripts in the works. Sara travels nationally and internationally for her work. (At least she did before Covid!) In her free time, she enjoys every outdoor sport there is: hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, rafting, paddling, sailing, windsurfing, to name just a few. When not on the road or on the water, Sara lives in the hills in Western Massachusetts with her husband, twin teens, and one aging yellow lab. You can find all Sara's current projects here: saraschley.com Brainstorm the Film BrainT