Of course, I can socialize with a diagnosis of the brain disorder Bipolar. I am human and I need socialization to stay healthy and thrive like anybody else. I enjoy being with family and friends and going out to whatever outlets that make me happy and comfortable.
But what about drinking? I do have an occassional glass of wine at some social functions. A glass or two is my limit; and for me, my last glass is well before my last dose of medication.
So, since I live with Bipolar that is stabilized and treated, when I go out, I prefer to suit my fancy with foods, music, good conversations, laughter, and the typical things we enjoy in society. I cannot do this every day or every weekend, though. That is probably why it is a special treat when I do go out.
Another thing is that whenever I go out to socialize, I try to be sure at least one close friend is present who knows and understands my brain disordeer. This is a safety precaution for me that is a simple "buddy" invite to a close friend if he or she is not already attending.
Does that mean I will cancel if no close friends are participating? Well, I don't hang out with strangers that way anyway and there are times I do socialize with friends who do not admittingly know I am Bipolar. In those situations, a close family member or friend knows exactly where I will be and I have an "I'm-home-safe-plan" as a part of my wellness plan.
Now, I'm smart enough to like to enjoy socializing without the negative affects of drinking (NO drugs!)! Remember also that it is easy to cover up signs and symptoms of Bipolar with alcohol and drugs. I hate the feeling of depression and that helps me to stay away from drinking. I know that when I am depressed, I want to feel better, too, so I stick to my prescription drugs to stay stable and well.
If you are undiagnosed and not being treated for Bipolar, some symptoms that may affect your socialization may include increased s*x drive, unrealistic belief in your abilities leading to poor judgment and risk-taking behaviors that could endanger you or your friends' lives. And, extreme happy feelings that might encourage you to recklesly over-drink or use drugs.
Also, mood swings that may lead to you constantly fighting or arguing with friends or patrons of an establishment. Denial that anything is wrong with you will also cause your friends to avoid you in public places because you bring drama!
So, it's Friday and I'm going to a gospel concert all by myself this evening:) This is a major accomplishment for me since I had a tough time with anxiety and panic attacks in crowds. At times, I just love going out by myself. What a special way to praise and worship my Savior for delivering me!
Today my wish is for you to think about why you really dread Fridays emotionally? Is your healthcare provider aware of this? Did you know that you can seek help confidentially by contacting the National Institute of Mental health at
www.nimh.or or the National Foundation for Depressive Illness, Inc. at
www.depression.org? Please do so and enjoy the peace and happiness of mental wellness...
Agnes ~ Too Wise Not To Praise Him!
Author of "Cooling Well Water: A Collection of Work By An African-American Bipolar Woman" ISBN 0975461206 Winter Release Pending -
www.myspace.com/coolingwellwater
Posted By: agnes levine
Friday, August 22nd 2008 at 8:26AM
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