AM I HIGH Functioning With My Bipolar Disorder?

CONTACT ME HERE: Patreon: / polarwarriors
FROM THE VIDEO:
"You know what really sucks... When we have severe bipolar disorder and people assume we have our s*** together because they only see us when we are well. We all know the struggle of keeping up appearances at our job, social gatherings, and even the things we post online. It's almost easier than having to explain what's wrong if people ask. I've had coworkers, friends, and even family members ask me what my problem was when I wasn't totally “ON.” I avoid that sometimes by putting on a mask.
About 2 years ago I made a video called “do I have my bipolar shit together.” If you haven't seen it yet, pleeeease check it out. The video basically addresses this illusion that I'm this high-functioning guy who has figured out how to conquer my bipolar disorder. Today, I want to expand on that video a little bit"....
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-My channel is completely dedicated to helping individuals, families, and friends who struggle with, or know someone living with Bipolar Disorder. My goal is to provide actual tools, tips, and discuss topics that can potentially help “Polar Warriors” grow to live a more balanced, peaceful, and fulfilling life.
-Rob Whittaker, Polar Warriors: Bipolar Support
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HELPFUL LINKS & ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
*FACEBOOK: / ​
*BECOME A PATRON: / polarwarriors
*WEBSITE: polarwarriors....
*IBPF: ibpf.org/
*BIPOLAR HOPE: www.bphope.com/

[@crystalj195]

"This isn't a pissing contest" THIS. I must say this to my husband every month and he doesn't have BPD. Also the what's wrong with you, kills me. Especially if you know I have this disorder. Shout out to my narcissistic mother who has done no research and gaslights me into thinking whatever issue I have is caused by my disorder or med management. Thank you for the hard work you do to create this safe space of validation.

[@cellogirl11rw55]

FYI: "BPD" stands for Borderline Personality Disorder. Bipolar Disorder is just "BD."

[@lionessontherise2403]

Right 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@judithchandler7368]

I certainly have more of a struggle with BD

[@judithchandler7368]

I have more of a struggle now with my BD since not working at my small biz. The demand just isn’t there and I am having physical problems. Sometimes I do manage a level of happiness though. Funny, I have been wondering why I hadn’t seen you lately. Glad to see you on youtube again. You do good work.

[@mikefeist8562]

People only see my problem when I am manic.

[@Warrior789_]

I will never understand how attempting to shame such an amazing organization, youtube channel, and person who's educating thousands of people who have Bipolar (myself included) will do ANY good? Exactly what was said in this video, he's filming on days when he is not struggling with an episode so of course it looks like he's doing fine but of course all of us are struggling with this and will for the rest of our lives. Please, pay no attention to these negative people who are only jealous of the positive and life changing impact you've made on us all! I'm a long time subscriber and love every video!!

[@twilightthunder808]

Hi my name is rowena and I was diagnosed at 19 with bipolar I disorder with psychosis and also diagnosed with autism at 16 I was wondering how to do things such as you do other than what was said I really want to advocate for mental health and was hoping to get some tips to put information out to the world like you

[@cjoyellow-bee6362]

I would rather see your videos they are so helpful. It’s a better look at me.

[@kkech1]

All that functionality can be in specific parts of life and time. I was super dysfunctional as a kid and teenager. Lived most of those years in isolation. Now I'm finishing college and looking forward to getting a job and whatever, despite having more severe symptoms. While a friend with bipolar was able to finish school and college without much problems and was working and married for some years. Till he started going downstream. He's super chaotic and unhealthy now, wasting his life without even trying. He's all caught up in delusional thinking and won't get meds or therapy.

[@PolarWarriors]

That's a sad situation for your friend. I hope that he gets some help soon and that things stabilize for him. I'm glad that you've been able to get through college despite your symptoms. I really struggled at the end of my college years and barely made it through my final year. Best of luck to you as you graduate and look for a new job! :) -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@kkech1]

@@PolarWarriors Made my day brighter with your reply. Pleasant as always! Thank you, Rachel :)

[@teresacunningham270]

Thank u

[@claumejia1]

I think the worst thing about being bipolar is how lonely it is, right? and people thinking you are just fine or not understanding at ALL. Much love to you all !

[@mmj9483]

So lonely. Sometimes I feel so lost. Thank God I have my husband and my family.

[@stevenweiss2148]

I am thinking that I am stronger for being alone. Not lonely. I talk to people I do not know..but keep my distance. I also really love animals

[@77777sadie]

I completely agree. Hugs 💞

[@Alaskanman]

Stay strong, you may be alone but not alone in this. We understand some of your struggles

[@claumejia1]

@@Alaskanman 🥰

[@TR-eo3pn]

I feel like “high functioning” is a backhanded compliment.

[@lizhyink5636]

(^I know right?!) Maybe that is just where we are culturally at, presently. Hmm, that people say such things, (as if all expectations should be low for living with a diagnosis has been entangled with stigma. Pulling them apart from damaging shame for not reaching some goals is a task in itself. So, one lesson here, as mentioned, is acknowledgement of the challenges one might face, but also considering hopeful strategies to find a path that works as well as possible.)

[@dahminatorEH]

Good for you brother!

[@PolarWarriors]

I agree with you. I have always had a hard time hearing that people think I'm "high functioning." Thanks for joining the conversation! -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@heidiho5179]

Love it! ❤️

[@elizabethsteadman1448]

Maybe it's not backhanded

[@loricavanaugh3699]

Please do not stop, I have learned more from you than any doctor in 30 years of trying...you've helped me the most!!! People need you ♡ . You encourage me so much. I started to finally understand and make good changes that have really helped me!!! Listening to you and your experiences have opened my eyes 👀 so very much!!

[@maria1221103]

Please don’t stop uploading, I just got diagnosed with bipolar 2 this week and started my treatment with lamictal and tbh your videos have been such a blessing to me. I can’t thank you enough and I have been binge watching every single one of them. ❤️

[@lindamastropietro4429]

Be careful Maria because what you read possibly is just people that don’t feel well. But there are people that handle it pretty well, so stay as positive as you can. I do pretty well when I walk every day and listen to music welcome to the channel .

[@lindamastropietro4429]

My doctor changed my medicine a month ago and I’m not feeling depressed anymore

[@77777sadie]

​@Linda Mastropietro, that's awesome! Im so happy for you!!!

[@bnorfolk100]

Hello, My husband has been diagnosed with Bipolar manic and the Doctor prescribed Lamictal for him but my husband won't take it because of the severe rash that can be a serious side effect! How did the Lamictal work for you?

[@bnorfolk100]

Oh by the way my husband is now in depression after 8 months of bipolar manic with psychodic breaks! It was scary and it has damaged our life in so many ways!!!

[@theRiver_joan]

I feel like I’m about to loose my job and the whole “high functioning” thing stings extra hard rn

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi Joseph, I hope you don't lose your job. That must be a scary feeling to feel as though that's imminent. The whole "high functioning" thing stings me as well. I wish people didn't use functioning labels. -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@dang7097]

For what it's worth I hope you'r situation gets better.

[@americancarguy]

I hope your situation improves

[@Dani-it5sy]

When it comes to the job I often think I wish there was a reset button. Like you'd just say to your boss: I am off for a week and when I come back we forget about the whole thing and start from scratch 😅

[@pegagonza3784]

I’m feeling it too. :( , but also feeling not good enough for this job and want to quit. I am 36 and they say I have mayor depression. But I feel something wrong with it

[@mickeyhinmon5319]

Anyone who says such a great one-liner as “I value my time because I know I have value,” does not ramble, Robert. I also think it’s wonderful your Mom is one of your production team. What would we with chronic illnesses do without our Moms. ❤️

[@frankierock1130]

Motherless children have a hard time

[@empireonwater]

I was half way through your comment as he delivered this great quote. I shall make this the focal point for the rest of my day.

[@terriz7791]

Thank you for your videos! I don't think I would want a video of me at my worst, or even when I'm flying high with mania.

[@Trollophile]

"I call it chasing the mania to avoid the suffering . . ." Sweet creator, you just described my life! 😯

[@smoosmoo22]

I feel like a bit of a fraud a lot of times at work. People think I’m funny and social and that I get my work done on time. That is true for the most part but they don’t see the dark side of me that suffers over mistakes I’ve made and the fear that I will be “found out.” I work extremely hard at keeping it together while at work. It’s exhausting.

[@cyndyloowho]

This comment makes me feel so understood!!!! Keeping my shit together is a 24/7 365 job that is so beyond anxious, exhausting, frustrating, depressing, and oddly sometimes joyful task. I'm a slave unto my self. It's a lot of hard f@cking WORK to be the "me" people see on the outside. I'm JUST beginning to understand that, and it's all I've ever known, all at the same time. I just want to be able to rest. I believe I'm at the beginning of my bipolar diagnosis, in and out of counseling my whole life and no one has ever seen put it together for me until yesterday, BECAUSE I "seem" to have my shit together. I've always felt like a fraud. People have no IDEA just what being "me" really entails. I could go on, obviously, right? 🤷🏼‍♀️ But just know that your comment made me feel understood, good, and not so alone. ❤

[@Alaskanman]

I was once like that, until I had a horrible crash phase and people began to notice the 180 flip in personality. Things get awkward and people think I randomly started hating them. Now I just stay quiet and suppress urges if I feel good, I'd rather have people leave me alone as a loner than misunderstand my circumstances

[@thomasreiche6879]

Good that you are functioning now. Yes, it helps at last me, often just to know that I am not alone. So please keep on even if some people think bad about you. Hope you will stay in the good shape you are now. I know it is not easy. Best wishes and greetings from Berlin, Germany.

[@jean6061]

As usual, your words are very helpful, Rob. They - you - give me hope. Thank you and take care.

[@melody2127]

it's really sad that you have to explain this, especially to those who claim to be so supporting in the bipolar community, don't' we go through enough? but that's the world we live in, i guess.

[@street1205]

Today's content was very moving. You are doing great my friend, please never doubt that. I pay monthly patreon happily. I am in between jobs right now (again) and I thought about stopping patreon due to money issues, but what you are doing helps me (and so many other people) way more than the small fee. Keep being one of our voices please ❤

[@crystalj195]

Thank you for supporting this even though you are having your own struggles. We need more people like you in the world. I hope things get better for you.

[@amorylovin2137]

Again thank you for your brutal honesty...bless you!

[@andrewlavogue3950]

This channel has been so overwhelmingly helpful since I was diagnosed, I really can't find better first hand information anywhere else. It sucks you've dealt with shaming, and it sucks even more that its coming from other people in the bipolar community. I don't understand the pissing match stuff, we all live with a rough disorder and communal places where we can learn more about it are gold, no sense in sullying that. Side note, I'm thankful you mentioned you only do videos when you can. I'll go stretches of weeks where I can't do the basics, or I barely can practice doing what I love doing. You saying that was a reminder that this disorder presents real challenges and its OK to take it easier, and not get too down on yourself when you do have to take it easier. Anyway, thanks for this!

[@lizhyink5636]

( Hey, really glad you added that side note, too. Much like perhaps well-meaning- misguided words like, "high-functioning", sometimes people might have complicated expectations about this condition from cultural stigma. It has been refreshingly humanizing to find this community. I agree with you,( - it's gold), and think the Polar Warriors team that puts this channel together have offered something meaningful to us in the public searching for resources. What I find heartening in the comments are the many different people that chime in, too. We all need that sometimes, peer support.)

[@grammyd8361]

We love and appreciate you, Robert. When I feel like I don't want to go on another day in this world and I have a plan, I come here and listen to you until I can't stay awake any longer. The next day, when I wake up, I feel better about things I can't fix. Those things and people, family who have broken my heart and have made me want to commit suicide. I just tell myself that its the disease, the shattered soul that makes me feel this way. The isolation, that makes me want to not live. I got life insurance the other day and I have no beneficiary that would claim me. I think I will cancel it. I won't care at that point. Will never take up this body again and I have nothing but a 21 yr old sports car to leave anyone. I've been sucked dry by life.

[@l.f7469]

Soo F ing TRUE!!!

[@AGL.001]

Like someone with bipolar II who can go into depressive episodes at random times, literally for no reason and without knowing how long they last; in my early 20s and as a professional photographer for a living ... I really empathize with you, warrior, when you talk about not turning on the camera when oneself is not well. For as long as it's meant to be. Someday i help you on patreon.

[@crystalrios3192]

I will only address the nay sayers in one statement Do not think as we watch polar nation (being caretaker with someone with bipolar) that it’s all peaches and cream we know this we are not in Denial when we watch.... These videos polar nation more than anything else has tremendously helped me understand And except what my son is going through I am a mom who has a boy who grew up with no behavioral issues who went to a high school that is tough to get into (based on grades and community work )and he excelled may 2020 boom our life got flipped upside down with an unchecked chemical inbalance (didn’t know what was happening just thought teenage years) Then psychosis came. I want to “reach in”and grab my “little boy” out your videos along with other resources help me to except what was going on not only to accept butto learn and walk with him in the best way possible and for that I’m thankful for polar nation so to those who are caretakers or going through it we are well aware there’s “bad” aspects what we need is hope and that’s with this gives us so thank you my good sir

[@street1205]

Hello. I read your comment and I am hoping I can say something completely not knowing your son's story. I am hesitant because I mean no harm.... Has your son been evaluated for schizophrenia or schizo-effective disorder? I ask because you are sharing that there were no symptoms when he was young and then a fast onset of symptoms. That is how those disorders I mentioned usually manifest. Either way, good luck with your son and don't give up.

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you for opening up and sharing your son's story with us. Must be hard as a parent to see him go through that. Sometimes the onset is swift and fierce. That's how it was for me. My world was totally turned upside down when my bipolar fully set in. I hope your son gets the care and support he needs. It sounds like you are a supportive and loving parent which is wonderful. Your son is very fortunate to have you. I wish you and your son all the best. -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@crystalrios3192]

he has been evaluated And is being monitored and medicated (anti psychotic and mood stabilizers) for schizoaffective disorder But as the psychiatrist said he’s not meeting all the criteria’s (psychosis never lasts any longer than 2 to 3 days etc when he was on the wrong medicationNow he’s on a combo that fits him)the medication is working he also doesn’t mind taking it actually makes sure he doesn’t leave without it LOL from time to time we have “mental check in’s” (sporadic how are you feeling..what’s your five favorite colors cars foods clothes etc.) he’ll even joke with me and hear a loud noise and say did you hear that and I say yeah then he’ll say WHEW ok just making sure😂 He lost his previous job during his mania episode so I got him a job with me not only to observe but so I can relax and know although 19 he’s ok and he’s doing great. Your video is not only help me with the mom emotional part but also help me with the technicals especially the interviews with your mom I could relate with the love so thank you with this page

[@Judi4Him4Ever]

This ☝🏼

[@darbirhian]

Maybe rather than "high functioning" it should be referred to as "well managed?" I even aced a class in college during a manic episode. This is an awesome video, by the way!

[@DaZlehrerin1980]

I'm so sorry that people are attacking you for seeming like you don't "have it that bad." And especially that it is coming from the community you seek to help by making yourself vulnerable through making these videos and being public about your bipolar disorder. Know that you have helped me so many times, when I've felt alone in this. I'm sure most people who follow you feel the same. So thank you. And stay strong.

[@mickeyhinmon5319]

Anyone who says such a great one-liner as “I value my time because I know I have value,” does not ramble, Robert. I also think it’s wonderful your Mom is one of your production team. What would we with chronic illnesses do without our Moms. ❤️

[@suzysobrinho2921]

I can understand where you are coming from my symptoms have always not evident to my family being type 2. And over the past two years they have gotten less severe in duration. So people don't necessarily think anything is wrong when actually things are not good at all.

[@joyermum]

I get it Rob. I've been subjected to pissing contests and friends and family confused when I'm unwell. I'm 100% with you that you should continue sharing when you're able at the time span that works. Thanks for all you do. Fellow warrior.

[@15walkingaway]

I'm functioning on the outside. On the inside I'm tired from constantly keeping it together

[@katherineparrish9172]

Thank you for sharing. I find your videos so helpful and valuable to helping me navigate being bipolar.

[@lizhyink5636]

^Agreed. Your effort to stay transparent and maintain integrity for your work here is appreciated. It's a balance of privacy and respect, as well as a measure of honesty you are comfortable with. Thank you for creating healthy boundaries as an example.

[@robcolbert194]

My name is Rob and I share a few things in common. I have Bipolar, this is my life going way up and way down. Life can be so hard to manage but with people like yourself who truly care it makes things easier. I can honestly say that Bipolar Warriors helped save my marriage and for that I will be forever grateful. I'm so happy I found your channel and so lucky to have you as a wonderful speaker and role model. Hi from Australia

[@ashish__91calisthenics40]

I do calisthenics whenever i reach at top manic episode comes and i get back to fat(0) i faced even parkinson once after some meds in one manic, after 3 times manic episode i no longer want to do calisthenics.

[@808cantwaiT]

Your first statement is so true but now it’s getting harder for me cuz my mask is getting harder to wear I was always the lively, happy, funny one but now I feel empty damn it’s so hard…but thank you 😊 for all you do.

[@PolarWarriors]

I really appreciate you taking the time to watch my videos, and especially for commenting! I hope you have a peaceful weekend ☀️☀️😊😊 -Rob

[@ajc2208]

Gosh, you're an inspiration, Rob, with your honesty and not beating around the bush about your true situation. Your resilience is truly admirable and a great example to others not to give up or think they are alone in the hard struggle. You are appreciated more than you'll ever know. All the best moving forwards.

[@maryzupo7176]

Thank you for sharing your story and what you have to say about BD. I do not have family support. They have refused to learn about this disorder and choose to believe that it is my choice how I behave. That I have control over this. To stay sane, for self preservation, I've walked away from some of them. Setting healthy boundaries. I'm on SSDI and not ashamed for it anymore, I couldn't keep a job for very long and BD was a constant interruption of stability for me. I'm still symptomatic at times, but I have better safeguards in place and one good sister in law who is very supportive of me. I'm grateful for her.

[@warchangeloO]

Can you talk about nicotine addiction, I'm bipolar type 1 with psychotic features, I've managed to ditch all drugs with the exception of nicotine, and am a heavy smoker. What's the relation with bipolar disorder?

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi Marcos! I forwarded the idea to Rob and he loved it!! Thank you so much, I find it really interesting. A long time ago when I quit smoking I heard that those medications to help you quit were actually antidepressants. Smoking for me was definitely a form of self-medicating. Thank you for the comment and for being a long time subscriber!! Sometimes we all need someone to talk to: www.crisistextline.org/ teenlineonline.org/talk-now/ Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member (H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds For ten dollars a month, you can message Rob directly, watch videos that are more personal in nature, and access a great community. www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@nalinisehwani4601]

I lost my daughter 😢 to BIPOLAR DISORDER , 😪 MY HEART ❤️ IS BROKEN , IT IS SO PAINFUL CAUSE SHE WAS SUCH A LOVING PERSON .. BUT SHE OVERDOSED ON HER PILLS AND LOST HOPE .. She was in much pain 💔 😢 it's so so so SAD 😞

[@Trollophile]

How can anyone suffering from our mental illness not understand that there is no such thing as high-functioning bipolar disorder?! Good luck finding or seeing me when I am in a depressive rage. 😬

[@240fxst]

Hi Robert, I totally understand your point a student of kenpo since I was 14 and was officially diagnosed by my doctor bipolar 1 13 years ago. I was chasing the mania. Now i'm 61 and only the last 13 years taking meds to manage my manic depression and talking to my Dr. regularly. Now I know and my family, friends understand my behavior.

[@nidhie3039]

I have severe suicidal hopelessness with extreme unexplained negative thinking , overthinking bipolar disorder ...I am shopping alot alot alot.

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi nidhie! If you are having thoughts of self harming, please reach out to someone, just to talk, you are not alone! I will post a link to a place where you can text someone to talk to, I know I have a hard time talking on the phone about things. I'm so glad you are a part of this community! Thank you for your brave comment, I'm sure you've helped someone out there to know that they are not alone! Sometimes we all need someone to talk to: www.crisistextline.org/ teenlineonline.org/talk-now/ Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member (H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds For ten dollars a month, you can message Rob directly, watch videos that are more personal in nature, and access a great community. www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@cas8920]

I gotta admit, I watch several videos right before my therapist appointments and blow my Doctors mind with knowledge.

[@hannibalfordinner]

Good Sir, you're story 👂 familiar. A recent quote that helps me now, " say what you mean and mean what you say because those who matter don't mind and those who mind don't matter"

[@Mr5150Sarge]

Just found Polar Warriors recently and appreciate the work you do.

[@dianecleary1054]

Yep. People look at me in disbelief when I state that I'm mentally handicapped with bipolar. I laugh and say well when I'm ill you don't see me I'm stuck to the mattress. Since I was diagnosed I find it annoying to monitor my behavior example speed speak.

[@kglistless]

I spent months experimenting with medications. I finally found ones that work. I was convinced that they'd be enough to carry me. My mood was better because I was hitting the gym and achieving every other goal I set for myself. When I finally landed my dream job, I had an excellent team. I was learning quickly. They said I'd already surpassed the woman who had worked there for 20 years. Then the stress kicked in seemingly from nowhere. I couldn't sleep, I barely ate and dropped 20 lbs in a month. I realized the medication wasn't going to stop my symptoms. Eventually my boss commented on my inconsistency: "Some days you're great, others... well...". My heart sank. I didn't want to disclose my disability because I've been quietly let go from other jobs after I was honest with other bosses. After a lot of stress and agonizing over what I should do, I walked into my boss' office with a doctor's note. I told him that my doctor advised me to walk away from the position because of worsening symptoms. He chastised me for not telling him about my disability. The good will I'd built with my team was gone. I burned several bridges that day. I still feel the shame. It's easy to pretend that your shit is together until your body decides that it's going to make everything feel impossible. Irritability goes up, sleep goes down, mind runs in circles, and body feels almost as heavy as my mind. I can push myself. I have discipline. But can I keep it up for 45+ hours a week and pretend to be normal? Hell no.

[@dougpettey7144]

I am so afraid of this happening to me in the very near future! I am sad that it happened to you and hope you are safe and thriving, now. Thank you for sharing this!

[@Ardent91]

Amen I don't roll around on the floor screaming help me help me it is very hard for me to make people understand I am not well . I just don't present correctly. It's a bit frustrating. Good to hear others have same issue. Thanks for what you do. I find myself here and the right vid always appears 🙃

[@kayhoover6530]

Your channel is so informative. If it is appropriate, may I ask if you ever read the book about navigating bi-polar disorder by Sally Alter? Would be interested to hear a review from you.

[@paultaylor4054]

Some of my best friends recommended your site to me and I can’t watch too many video at one time. So far my best method for coping is to make small gradual changes and avoiding rapid crazy change almost completely. Thank you for producing such a needed resource for one of the most helpless disparate groups of people that most of the public doesn’t care about and or understand! You are a Saint in my book Sir. I’m looking forward to some smoother days in future with much hard work too 🥵🥵🥵

[@PolarWarriors]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@shirleyhowell3593]

You're reaching so many people this way! 💖Thank you! 🌻🌻🌻 And keep up the good work please!🌷🌷🌷

[@LLLLLL000]

I appreciate all the time and effort you put into these videos despite your own struggles. I have bpd, bipolar, anxiety and an eating disorder and appreciate any help I can get. I get how appearing "high functioning" gives people the impression that you're coping, getting better or "not as bad as they thought". This simply means that we might be able to practice the coping mechanisms we've learnt in therapy or online. Or we might be having a small, one day break in our horrible lows and upsets. Please take it slow and look after yourself first and foremost. Take care friend.

[@christophernorris4567]

I’ve literally googled “am I high functioning bipolar” because I feel like I’ve gotten so good at masking after dealing with this since I was a young child and not being diagnosed until last year at the age of 27. This is my normal I didn’t even realize the things I was feeling weren’t normal it’s tough. Sending love to my fellow bipolar family stay strong and stay in the fight

[@Bilove863]

wow....I was JUST thinking about you all......right now I'm on a damn good high for today. I don't mean drugs though......I mean with work being done and music energy. OH also the whole app thing sadly doesn't work out for me since my ipad is too old.....we so need MORE bipolar help apps!

[@justme5008]

Thanks! You have NO IDEA just how much your video’s have ment to me…. ❤ I CANT get my Newlywed Husband to talk, research, or watch your videos (that I’m constantly sending him.. but when I ask him if he’s watched it, he just says no don’t have time)… it’s almost like he’s saying that he doesn’t have time for my bipolar type one. I know he loves me. However, it’s like he just expects me to handle it. If that makes any sense. 😢

[@slickrick1856]

Your videos are saving my life

[@l.f7469]

you are VERY GENUINE and I like that in a person. Thanks 4 sharing ☺️

[@jaywise1956]

I'm trying to find a polar warrior video about memory loss. There are times in my cycle that i just can't retain information. Or i "wake up" and realize i have no idea where i am or what i was doing. It's not like in a movie: i quickly find things around me that usually remind me of what's going on. But my doc is saying this is normal for bi polar and if love to see a video about it

[@PolarWarriors]

Great idea Jay!!

[@_vilepenguin]

Thanks for all you do. Your channel helped me a lot when I was first diagnosed. I watch your videos and comment so the you tube algo will help other find you and maybe find the help I did.

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you so much for your comment. I'm so glad that Rob's videos have been so helpful to you. If you'd like to help support Rob in what he does with Polar Warriors I'd encourage you to consider joining him on Patreon. He posts exclusive content there and he's able to reply to direct messages through that platform. There's also a wonderful support community in the community section. I'll include the link so you can check it out. I hope your week is going really well! :) -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member) www.Patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@courtneywilliams8522]

There's no need to explain your struggles the people saying that stuff are just haters I actually would like a video suggestion I have a lot of times where it's like im having a sensory overload everything is louder I can't concentrate and even lights seem brighter and I start having a panic attack when I'm like this im quick to snap and often don't make a lot of sense I try to walk away if I notice but alot of time im not aware that I'm going to have an episode until I'm knees deep in panic it comes on so quick I hate this part of me and would like to know how I can deal with this better and if this is common what is it and what coping skills can I try so I can not look like the elephant in the room

[@PolarWarriors]

I can totally relate!!! One piece of advice I got from my long time therapist was in those moments cut down on your senses. That means when I'm overwhelmed I will close my eyes so that's one less sense to deal with. I also used to use headphones with mellow music, or something you like. That drowns out sirens, arguing, yelling, traffic etc. I have noise cancelling headphones no so that and closing my eyes is a huge relief. Sensory gadgets are everywhere now, those are wonderful. Anyway, wonderful comment! I'll let Rob know of your suggestion!!! Dianna, polar warriors

[@lesterlasa3367]

Thank you so much excellent important information

[@sharnimaisey6890]

Please don’t feel shamed...you are helpful to me and I am grateful. I have respect for you. The ‘nasty’ episodes are exhausting for me and I have empathy for you. I hope you are able to keep going. Well done.

[@CriticizeCriticize]

Work from home, I completely feel this. I’m so grateful for my business, I hope it works out bc I’m not sure what else to do anymore

[@annetteslattery6882]

Rob I'm So Very Grateful to have you share !!❤

[@sanjam7939]

My friend was on meds for 25ys,than a year ago she stoped eating sugar and gluten 🥳🥳🥳 It was bingo! Since than she doesnt use any meds and she found a job. We are friends for almost 30ys and live together and were looking for her salvation for many past years🙏.

[@PolarWarriors]

I'm glad to hear your friend is doing so well. Not many people with bipolar disorder can function well enough with just a healthy diet alone. That's great that it has worked out for your friend in this case. I personally need my meds to maintain some semblance of functioning. Even so I do not work a regular full time job anymore. Hope you're having a great week! -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@problemchild6248]

Rob keep ur head up haters gonna hate we need u 2 continue 2 guide us

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi, Rob offers one on one support on Patreon if you are interested. He also posts more personal information about his day to day struggles like his recent hospital stay. Until September 15th, he is offering free phone calls to patrons. Another Patreon exclusive is Rob hosting and moderating weekly support groups on discord! Take gentle care! 🙏 Sometimes we all need someone to talk to: www.crisistextline.org/ teenlineonline.org/talk-now/ Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member (H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nds www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@emmalinejett3620]

I completely agree. I like to call it my alter ego, and getting “into character” isn’t always successful, it’s a work in progress. The distance between the person that I want to be and who I used to be is paved with a lot of hard work, time, fails, restarts, forgiveness, etc. Hours spent listening to the bible, praying, therapy books, listening to KZbin channels(and yes, Polar Warriors is my favourite😊👍🏻), writing in my mood journals, swallowing my pride, asking for forgiveness, pacing, taking meds on time, forcing myself to brush my teeth, forcing me to get a shower, to do laundry, learning to accept help because I am blind and not giving up on life. That’s not even counting all of the other things that we’ve currently forgotten because of our manic state of mind, LOL. We all have struggled to cover any amount of ground as a caterpillar 🐛 with friction burns from trying so hard. We likely have had many panic attacks from the dark, tiny cocoon, fretting that the bruises we endured will leave us as a half baked chrysalis! Finally a butterfly🦋, we fell when we forgot to use our wings, we worry that we’re too heavy to fly, and fingers are killer phalanges! Every stage of growth took A LOT, and we still face constant work and challenges! Don’t let a butterfly’s beautiful wings make you ignorant of the times they’ve fallen while growing them. Who knows, we might even have a fear of heights, so please don’t assume guessing rights.

[@charylliss3741]

Truly each person with bipolar disorder has an individual journey.Having Bipolar my whole life, manifesting psychosis over 30 years ago, your videos recently provided me with new information and insights that helped me ward off a psychotic episode. ❤

[@PolarWarriors]

I’m so happy to hear the videos have been helpful ❤️❤️. I hope you have a peaceful week! 🤗 -Rob

[@murrayrosehg]

Filming while Symptomatic would be So Unprofessional. Filming while you are in a stable stage is Very Professional. Well Done! I personally wouldn't Respect your Teaching quite so much if you filmed your worst points. I would Wonder Why you were doing that & even Feel Distressed for you. I Trust your Sharing. Good on you for Self- Advocating. If you wanted to really share Your Truth - a Video of sharing from those who Love you would do it - but you Don't Need To. The People behaving Disrespectfully can learn to Hold Others Accountable in a Respectful Manner. Till Then - Ignore Them.

[@justme5008]

Thanks! You have NO IDEA just how much your video’s have ment to me…. ❤ I CANT get my Newlywed Husband to talk, research, or watch your videos (that I’m constantly sending him.. but when I ask him if he’s watched it, he just says no don’t have time)… it’s almost like he’s saying that he doesn’t have time for my bipolar type one. I know he loves me. However, it’s like he just expects me to handle it. If that makes any sense. 😢

[@PolarWarriors]

@@justme5008 awe hi!!!! I can’t thank you enough for your generosity and supporting my advocacy work. What you said absolutely makes sense. Send me an email so we can continue the conversation: [e-mail] -Rob

[@carolynprendys6063]

Keep going Rob❤ I listen to your videos over and over on the down days...took me Forever to get a teaching degree (retake classes etc), couldn't keep a steady position for awhile and then got "high functioning" enough to put on mask and heels and teach 17 yrs, also landlord for 10 yrs...couple outpatient stints (leave of absence), but nope- had to leave teaching and landlording 2019...who knows what's next, your channel helps me Cope and gives Hope💞💞💞💞

[@carolynprendys6063]

Nice to read Rachael team member comments too- Love and Service, thank you guys🙏❤🌹

[@PolarWarriors]

@@carolynprendys6063 you're very welcome! Thank you so much for commenting about me, I appreciate that!

[@cephalopod7937]

I've just watched and cried. I know someone with bipolar and I've underestimated how much suffering it brings...

[@mystyal]

I love your videos. I've been diavosed for over 10 years but ADHD since elementary (thanks mom 😂) I've boxed on and off for 20 years. The off is vital. It's like when Bruce was trying to get The Hulk out on the Avengers Endgame 🤦🏾‍♂️😂

[@KimSol90]

I want to thank you for making these videos. I know it takes a long time and a lot of work to put together. :) I have to say it's probably the best yt channel regarding Bipolar Disorder. I truly enjoy watching them. Keep up the good work.

[@kayspitzner3229]

I'm so happy YOU are here! Thank you. Keep taking care of yourself...from a mom...

[@mrs.galloway]

My husband recently told me im psycho and need to be inpatient. He said this out of frustration but it really makes me feel like im hurting everyone around me and life would be easier for everyone if I wasn’t around anymore.

[@robbiehussey4723]

A lot of people think I'm "high functioning" or don't even have bipolar since I seem so capable around them. Even my family whom I live with think that way. They see me as some smart guy, who reads books, organized a Geology club at uni and is even trying to unionize my workplace. They don't realize how much of a struggle it's been to do any of those things! Hell the last two things were started because of a hypomanic episode and now it's difficult to maintain either of them.

[@jasminvomwalde7497]

Don‘t let those people dishearten you. To say it with Taylor Swift‘s words: Haters gonna hate, hate, hate, … shake it off! You are doing a great job and we appreciate you

[@liahlove8297]

Only God knows how hard I try to act and appear normal for work. It's hard and exhausting but if I don't work, I will be broke for the rest of my life. So I do what is necessary. And on top of having bipolar 1, I have paranoia. How fun.

[@wanderingintime]

👏👏👏 good points all throughout. thank you and your people for your help.

[@gaylecheung3087]

We are taking about you at the moment “stage” when you are level high functioning they can change it fluctuates depending on your experience through life Time incident that might trigger something to bring you down then you crash you don’t want that ever again took my daughter 20 years to tell me I am bipolar but I didn’t really press on it until I’m high function because I’m OK all right I’m not in bed crying 24/7

[@sandralazzarino7588]

Thank you Rob for your openness in sharing the reality of living with bi-polar. I feel as if you are telling my son's story. You truly are a Warrior!! Your insight is invaluable!! God's favor be with you as you take care of yourself. Helping yourself is the best way to help others!

[@recoveringlibertarian5982]

I can't hold a job . I been sober for 20 years . So idk i keep failing

[@gagecarty4290]

Success brings Jealousy, they feel that you should be helping them. My father sacrifice family time to try to provide neighborhood youths with a year round positive outlook to life and the future and he received some criticism for it.

[@timhynes6185]

Sounds like we go through same crap. Obviously we do. Good to let people to grow and understand the illness

[@maolector]

Automatic captions are in vietnamese. Can you fix it to english,please?

[@alyssaheitkamp6590]

I wish you would make a tiktok because you helped me understand myself and surely you have completely saved my hol emptier we Plus you do deserve

[@karstent8138]

Thank you Rob. I get all that you're saying. I totally get the huge amount of effort behind the scenes it takes to produce what you do.

[@HB-jx8bb]

Thank you so much for the work you do! Through you I have learnt so much about how to support a loved one with bipolar.

[@fati3m574]

I feel sorry that there's no way of supporting your channel from my country!

[@whracing]

Am so happy for sharing the video information. I’m Gona take a few aspect of how you make yours and see ignite helps me.

[@peaceman9706]

great stuff bro for me when i perform my prayers (muslim) i feel medicated.. but i stil struggle to fulfil it because the greatest battle is within. when u feel u dont need to improvise yourself to get close to the 1 true god thats when things in life get messier get messier

[@tracyfleming2678]

Thanks for being so candid, your videos have really helped me, much love to you

[@PolarWarriors]

I'm so glad Rob's videos have been so helpful to you. It always means a lot to him to hear this. If you'd like to help support Rob in what he does with Polar Warriors I'd encourage you to consider joining him on Patreon. He posts exclusive content and is available for direct messages through that platform. There's also a wonderful support community in the community section. I'll include the link so you can check it out! Hope your week is going well! :) -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member) www.Patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@melissagarcialynn5465]

That’s amazing how far life has taken you to be where you are today. stereotyping, I’ve been bullied, and went through a lot of cycles in my life.. I’m more depressed and experience more lows then highs. where know I now I am what I am due to my illness. It’s a way of life; let’s be polar about surviving.. “polar warriors”.

[@forlornhope7121]

Yes, a way of life. Sometimes people say I am very insightful, certainly an original thinker seeing things outside the regular square thinking. But I know it's my bipolar. It shapes me for good and bad. I try to ride the waves and use the good to help myself and others. A real bipolar lifestyle

[@jillmontgomery4856]

Thank you so very much for this. I worked so hard to achieve a "normal" looking life above my symptoms. Sometimes I was succesful sometimes I crashed. I am now 77 years old, still managing my biipolar self. But it is not so obvious and I am proud of what I have done. Thank you for your insights and the truth you speak. It has been a struggle.

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you for taking the time to share and post such a wonderful comment. I’m so glad the videos have been helpful to you. Stop by the channel anytime. Digital hugs. -Rob

[@cpepperyowell]

Thank you SO MUCH for your channel. It has helped me grow immensely. I find myself watching them regularly, sometimes just to feel a little better or recognize that I am not alone.

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you for sharing how much Polar Warriors has helped you. We are always so glad to hear that! If you'd like to help support Rob in what he does with Polar Warriors, please consider joining him on Patreon. There are a few benefits to joining. He posts exclusive content and is available to reply to direct messages through that platform. Additionally, there's a wonderful support community in the community section. I'll include the link so you can check it out. Thanks so much for being a subscriber and for sharing with us! :) -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member) www.Patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@wsoftly1]

why must we fake it to fit in with family and friends? when i dont they say go see your doctor. they dont try and understand or help

[@tessax9253]

Thank you for everything that you have done and continue to do for the bipolar community. We are better with you, we are better together. I'm sorry you have been experiencing backlash from people over misunderstandings.

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you for your kind words of support. I'm so happy to hear that you appreciate everything Rob has done for the bipolar community. If you'd like to help support Rob in what he does for Polar Warriors, please give some consideration to supporting him through Patreon. He posts exclusive content there and is able to reply to direct messages through that platform. I'll include the link so you can check it out! :) Hope you're doing well and having a great week! -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member) www.Patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@Catlily5]

Yes, I am so high functioning that I am on disability!

[@carriemunnick9980]

I like your videos. They are helpful.

[@jessenashvillejames150]

Thanks for your honesty, I'am very proud 👏 of you... This episode was one of my favorites...

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you so much for the kind words! Stop by the channel anytime. If you are inclined, take a look at my Patreon community. There’s a link in the description where you can join us 😊😊☀️☀️ -Rob