Faces of Bipolar Disorder (PART 5) "Rapid Cycling"

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What is Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder? What are the symptoms, how is Rapid Cycling diagnosed, and how is it treated? Welcome to the 5th video in our ongoing series titled "Faces of Bipolar Disorder" from Polar Warriors! We're going to discuss Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder in depth - and this one hits home for me personally considering it's part of my diagnosis.
If you or someone you care about has Bipolar Disorder, get ready to learn a LOT about the illness through this multi-part series. We've already talked about Bipolar Diagnosis, Type 1, Type 2, Cyclothymia, and now we are moving into the various key symptoms and "Course Descriptors" that go along with it. Make sure to check out the other videos in our series (or playlist) so you can learn a lot about what I call "the Bipolar Experience."
If this is your first time visiting our channel, welcome to "the Polar Warrior club!" We are completely dedicated to helping individuals, families, and friends who struggle with, or know someone living with Bipolar Disorder. Our 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. We truly hope these videos inspire & educate those interested in knowing more about this serious mental illness. PLEASE remember to subscribe so you don't miss a video that could impact your life in a profound way!
POLAR WARRIORS ON FACEBOOK: / polarwarriors
-Rob Whittaker, Polar Warriors: Bipolar Support

[@kitsunejoshie]

Up till last year I honestly thought everyone cycled daily like me. I always cycle throughout the day and thought it was normal for everyone who is bipolar, then I found out most people only switch every week or month and I actually got depressed because of it, I had the thought of "wow, I'm even crazier than other bipolar people" And that hit me kinda hard. So anyone who is close to someone like this, my advice is, supporting them is a huge thing. It's hard enough dealing with it on a daily basis, but if they are in the same spot as me and have not a single person trying to help, it becomes unbearable at times.

[@Catlily5]

Long cycles are worse than rapid cycles personally. But I would agree that how bad you have it could be determined by a number of factors like ability to work, ability to have relationships, # of hospitalizations, how suicidal you are, etc etc.

[@kitsunejoshie]

@@Catlily5 how would you know? If you rapid cycle you don't have long cycles and if you have long cycles you don't rapid. So how do you know ow what is worse? It's a struggle no matter what and it's not some competitions of who has it harder.

[@TheBonnieCT]

❤❤❤❤ this channel is a life saver !

[@devmiles]

As a non bipolar i can't emphasize enough how valuable this channel is to give me insight. You deserve a medal my friend for sharing all this

[@MELiSiTA430]

Yes, and it’s awesome that you are informing yourself. It’s a very lonely and dangerous illness. You might not be able to take away the pain, but your presence and desire to understand & help means so much 👏👏 and can make a HUGE difference.

[@justmearlene]

Rapid cycling is horrible! Today I did not get out of bed until 4pm asked my sister to come with my to get my weekly allergy shot.. on the way back I got very irritated and started yelling at her for no reason she even started to cry and asked me why I was mad and I told her “you know why” but I didn’t even know why... 15 min later we were laughing and singing like nothing happened.... then when we got home i ate a sandwich laid in my bed again got irritated again for no reason and now it’s 10pm I’m exhausted my head hurts and I can’t sleep😒

[@PolarWarriors]

justmearlene damn... so sorry you are struggling like that right now. Agitation is definitely one of the hardest for me. I experience that most often when I go through “dysphoric mania.” At least you are self aware of what happened which is a huge start! Keep trying to work on becoming aware of how you feel so you can tell your sister something like “I’m starting to crash and I think it’s best that we don’t talk so I don’t get upset right now” - before it gets out of control. Easier said than done and it takes practice. I’m still working on it myself. I completely can relate to what you described. You are not alone here :-)

[@christinawood504]

I've so had days just like this! It's so stressful not knowing what the day is going to be like.

[@thorisomolefe2276]

@CaliforniaLove8 I imagine that the first place to start is to get out of guilt and into self compassion and then use the advice given by the channel host. You can't make lasting change from a place of guilt, especially with bipolar, you can't heap negative emotions like guilt onto already negative emotions stemming from our unbalanced neurotransmitters (fuel to a fire) and hope to succeed at controlling our responses, it's going to be a vicious cycle. It's difficult to get over the guilt, apologise as best as you can and begin unpacking and have emotional responses ready in advance and like the one suggested by the channel host, but trust me, getting stuck in guilt is going to do harm, I am also working on irritability, I experience hypomania more than anything else, it didn't help that I misdiagnosed and taking methylphenidate which has mania as a sode effect (my dose was increased because of course ADHD meds weren't working on bipolar, so I was extremely irritable and anxious and had to learn to keep it u sed control even under those circumstances so I understand where you're coming from🌹) please as a start, try to step back and observe rather than judge yourself harshly because we also suffer from the symptoms of bipolar and in order to be able to treat those around you better when you are agitated, you have to begin with self care, be gentle but firm with yourself and the response will gradually get better. Meds help too😂. I'm on lithium only

[@breannaschlaht6501]

Story of my Life for real tho... 💯 🤪 😵

[@livinglifeoutdoorstv6550]

justmearlene Been there. Quit many jobs that way. Fired from some as well.

[@brantleycoaker2010]

I'm in tears. I am so glad that I found you. I'm in a better place now. I accept that am bipolar type 1. Now I have to find out what to do next. This disease is horrible and I pray for all those who are also afflicted with this. Thank you again

[@PolarWarriors]

You are so very welcome! I’m so glad you found my channel and I hope it’s really helpful. Stop by anytime. You are definitely not alone here 😊😊🤗

[@MELiSiTA430]

We’re In this together💜 much love to you. Hang it there

[@JeffreyWilliams-dr7qe]

Thank Goodness there is finally some research for Bots suffering from terrible mood disorders.

[@lindamurray8673]

I have learned more from you than all my councilors. Thank you

[@kellyhendrickson2178]

Excellent!!!! Hey! I'm a rapid Cycler too! Thank you so much! Love to you Rob!

[@Kate-to3xq]

You are more sensible and knowledgeable than all the doctors I have ever seen. I certainly think that you are a gifted “teacher” in relation to bipolar probably because you have the condition yourself. I am an ultra, ultra rapid cycler who has just spent the last few MONTHS withdrawing from lithium, antipsychotic and halving sertraline dose due to the medications causing chronic fatigue, cataracts, glaucoma, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems none of these side effects never having being pointed out to me by my doctors. I am now employing lifestyle changes eg diet, exercise etc to remedy these conditions plus my bipolar disorder. I realised through my own research that the medications were causing these problems. I certainly agree that bipolar should be treated in a multi faceted way and that patients should be made aware of medication side effects and interactions. I am 64 years of age and no longer blindly follow doctors’ instructions instead relying also on my own research and finally feel I have control over my own health.

[@sukiesoya]

My mood can change drastically one hour to the next sometimes I am very indecisive sometimes I can feel the chemicals surge through my head and mood change

[@candicemariebeadco]

You're an angel on earth in human form.

[@PolarWarriors]

You are too Candice! 🙏

[@nickfree46]

Hi, i just want to say this is the best info and help in relation to bipolar. I have been a sufferer all my life, but only finally diagnosed one year ago and am currently 51 years ago. I am constantly up and down and have to take 24 tablets a day to try keep it under control. This whlst keeps me stable has taken away all my emotion, love and kindness. My wife had to give up work to take care of me suffering constantly from self harm and alcohol abuse. I have attempted suicide five times and being hospitalised on many occasions, once for over a year. It is hell i only keep going for my wife and kids. Keep up the great videos.

[@philgortbarten]

Nick I feel your pain. feel similar. Roberts videos are a true life line. sending solidarity to you across the ether. philippa

[@PolarWarriors]

big nick Hi Nick! A very warm welcome to my channel and the “polar warrior club” lol! I’m so glad you finally got a diagnosis and I would happen to agree with you… It can be hell for sure! Your wife must be amazing to dedicate so much of herself to helping with your care. I don’t know what I would do without my partner or family. Keep fighting the good fight my friend and stop back by again so you can continue to learn more with me :-) I really appreciate the kind words and for supporting my channel. -Rob

[@nickfree46]

Hi robert, thanks for your kind comments. Due to the precise and presentation of your content i see your channel becoming a great success very quickly. My cpn community pyscoatrict nurse was very impressed with you as we watched one of your videos together, he said you were very good and true to the facts. Im watching every video you produce and in a way it feels im communicating with someone that understands. What about a forum where your subscribers can all meet and discuss your videos and our own experiences. All the best and keep em coming. Take care.

[@stevedryden803]

big nick on 2 mood stabilizers and an antipsychotic. I have cycled daily many times. Even every few hours.

[@Shubham-dg3rb]

@@nickfree46 sir how are uou you now ?

[@staceyroy9186]

Haven't finished watching, but wanted to take the time to say thank you and express how much I appreciate the time you take to do this and help others. My mom was manic depressive, and I've felt I was as well recently. My mom passed as of 10 years ago, and I didn't realize exactly all her condition entailed until searching further into my diagnosis recently. I always thought it just meant severely depressed. This has shed much light onto bipolar for me, and also helps me continue advocating for my mom (as we unfortunately were cursed with family that has no desire to educate themselves on this). It's been a long road, and a very lonely one as well since I've lost my mom, but I'm happy that in learning more on my own journey, I feel I'm also learning more about her even though she's no longer here to share with me. Thank you a million times over and again!

[@asteltius]

im sorry about your mom 🕊

[@ashbygarst8054]

Hey, man. Just wanted you to know that I really appreciate you making these videos especially this one. I was diagnosed with bipolar at 17 and I could be manic then depressed in the same day. I hadn’t heard any stories like mine so I always had a pestering voice in my head saying I was over exaggerating everything and I still sometimes feel like I can’t relate to anyone else with bipolar. But this video really helped me see that what I experience is real and it happens to other people too. So thanks

[@pauljarman8183]

Hi from Australia, I sincerely thank you for your informative posts. They are helping me come to grips with my disorder. Please keep them going 5 stars from me

[@janisgolden644]

I can see parts of myself in most of these videos. The fact that bipolar is out of the closet is reassuring to me & validates that it is a physical disorder rather than a character flaw. I was diagnosed 47 yrs ago. I've seen mental health treatment advance more than I would have thought it could, now we need to stop stigmatizing ourselves. Thank you for the videos & please keep them coming.

[@PolarWarriors]

You are so welcome Janis and thanks for joining my community here! Stop by anytime. I don't plan on stopping these videos anytime soon. It's so rewarding to help others like this. One of the best things I've done in my life =) -Rob

[@philgortbarten]

as ever, thank you deeply for this vid and all. its a hard thing to take that the GP's at least here in UK for the most part REALLY dont get it. and by that I mean, they are completely and utterly unaware and their advice can often be, if followed, fatal. watching this video , as with all your videos, has given me renewed strength to somehow write about this, talk to the medical profession over here and so on and so forth. Thank you

[@marktravis793]

Wow. This has helped me alot. I didn't even realize alot of my behaviour are exactly like u described. Thank you and I'd like to support your channel.

[@tanyatheriotlmt3002]

Robert you are truly a gift and a blessing to all who need to educate their self or for care givers to educate their self. You may not be a doctor but I’ve never seen or heard anyone speak with so much knowledge and kindness on mental illness or on KZbin. You deliver your message with such soothing and effective outcome. You should seriously consider going to school for psychology. I think you could be a game changer.

[@PolarWarriors]

Tanya Marie Thank you so much for the kind words! It really means a lot to me. As soon as I can do this full-time and have enough people donating through Patreon, I will definitely consider going back to school. I’d like to write a book someday and it would be great if I had a degree to go with it. Stop by the channel anytime :-) -Rob

[@catalystcomet]

For the last few months I have been pretty much ready to go. I rapid cycle every week or so. I got out of my relationship of 10 years which was unhealthy and I have two kids. I'm 33. Started working full time after a decade out of necessity. And I just can't handle it. I know I sound not pathetic but you can't see the tears all over my face. I told my mom and my ex and they don't do anything to try to help. My mom says I am more than my diagnosis and says that her giving me money to help out is enough, and her watching the kids sometimes. But anyway, my mind has been made up for a while now and my point is that I've been using a lot of this time to collect mentally healthy memes and pictures and quotes to share with people. I have collected and posted thousands upon thousands over the course of this incredible depression I have felt for the last few months. Sometimes I don't sleep for days and I just collect them and post them everyday because it's helping people. And I just want to help people because I wish someone would have helped me. If you see this at any point in the future my name is iamthecomet and I'm on imgur. Hopefully I'll still be posting, but either way hopefully I made a difference.

[@ajc2208]

Bless you for the great information you put out there. Helps carers immensely to understand the illness from a better perspective.

[@enriquepinero707]

Just subscribed. Your videos are on point and informative. Good pacing and tone of voice. Most videos that cover these topics are robotic on tone or too hyper. Well composed and very professional .

[@alexisrollins2998]

i just want to say thank you. you’re amazing. this channel is amazing. i’ve been looking for some kind of resource like this for years. i’m 16 and id honestly say i’ve been bipolar about all my life. i have the same as you the in between ultra ultra and ultra cycling. it’s so hard. all of my emotions are so over the top and over whelming. it’s mentally exhausting going between feeling invincible and on top of the whole fucking world back down to worthless and unworthy of love or life several times a day. hearing that people like me usually commit suicide makes me feel depressed and kinda wanna go ahead and do it tbh. but i know that’s just the chemical imbalance in my brain talking and that it’s not the truth. but quite honestly that’s got to be the worst part. having all these emotions and they are so legit in your mind but in reality they’re false and nothing close to the truth and yet you still can’t snap out of this mentality and if you do you’ll shoot straight up into mania and feeling incredible again even though you know that too is a false emotion. this is getting unbearable really. but thank you for all your help and information i feel myself growing and learning and healing just a tad bit already. i will contribute to your cause as soon as i can.

[@bellamckinnon8655]

Thank you so much to hear, I really needed to hear that

[@jenniferkrysiak7308]

Thank you for posting this. I would like more people to get the help they need. I wish there was better healthcare in this country. I am on medicare/medicaid in Georgia. I have had to use telehealth appointments since January of 2019 because there is no one in the city I live in that takes medicare and I do not drive. I have bipolar 2 and was diagnosed in 1994.

[@PleaseNThankYou]

I've said this before on one or two of your other videos but I haven't seen your channel cycle through in the recommended list, I'm still subscribed with a bell so I don't know why . this video was done in 2017, before I stared watching your channel. Getting into it though, my son is 41 now and its unclear about his diagnosis as a child and I know nothing of his Hx medically since adulthood except that its very uncertain. He did indeed ultra rapid cycle as you describe and he never got appropriately Dx'd or Rx'd. Consequently his life has been hell on Earth. I'm getting him in to see a family physician later this month and its the first real doctor visit in a decade at least. This, for me is not only for a complete physical but as a ruling out of all other medical problems in order to be referred to a mental health physician. If anyone knowledgeable has anything specific to contribute to how he should enter this first appointment, please do. Especially Robert because you seem to have gone through a symptomology precisely like that of my son. Thank you for your input.

[@terrifendley2761]

So much valuable info ! I enjoy watching these so much. My biggest problem is that I do not know what feeling “ok” or “stable” is like because I’ve been depressed for probably the longest period of time at the moment

[@beaanderson412]

These videos have made such a difference in my understanding of this dreadful disease and the nature of the support I give my daughter. Please don't stop educating us. Thank you so much.

[@PolarWarriors]

Bea Anderson Thank you so much Bea and a very warm welcome to my channel. I’m so glad the videos are helping and very grateful for your kind words. I hope you will continue to stop by and learn more with me. I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon :-)

[@stefyguereschi]

THANK YOU FOR YOUR EXPLANATION, WANT TO EXPRESS A SIMPLE CONCEPT 'AND SOMETIMES I JUST NEED TO BE ALONE,SO I CAN CRY WITHOUT TO BE JUDGED,SO ICAN THINK WITHOUT BEING INTERRUPTED ,SO I DON'T BRING ANYONE ELSE WITH ME, THANK YOU FOR LISTENING.

[@PolarWarriors]

You are most welcome 🤗

[@stefyguereschi]

THANK

[@marcoperanteau6337]

Again well done, I'm trying to find your video on the 8 different types of bipolar I enjoyed it very much and have alot of family members who would love to watch it, thanks again

[@tjw9985]

So I'm an ultra, ultra. I had been thinking that I was exaggerating. I''m depressed in the morning and manic in the evening. I'm in limbo during the middle of the day. According to my mom, I've had symptoms since I was a baby. She didn't know what was going on until I was diagnosed as an adult.

[@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. For the month of July 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

[@rebquistrebquist3185]

LOVE the background on this video!! Alegorical to the "workings" of treatment..

[@derekthrash9643]

Robert great video as every one I've seen is. Big Nick hang in there buddy I'm nearly in the same boat you are but I'm trying to figure this all out. My wife teaches and I'm strongly considering going on disability because of this as my life is nearly unmanageable now. Great videos Robert I'm gaining a lot of understanding...let's keep fighting the good fight and not give in to this BP crap.

[@PolarWarriors]

Derek Thrash I think it’s a great idea to apply for disability if you are struggling like that. We’ve all worked really hard to pay into disability, so it’s there if we need it. Having a little bit of extra financial help will make a huge difference psychologically. It’s normal to be denied the first couple of times if you apply, so just keep going for it. I guess it’s a game to weed out the people who don’t really need it. I think that’s a good choice to explore as a possibility. Maybe see if your wife can help with the paperwork if you aren’t up to it😊👍

[@charlesmaines6706]

Another excellent video, Rob. Thanks for sharing, man.

[@sashaboden1162]

I really enjoy your content, it gives me terms for what I actually go through and I am able to help approach way earlier. currently in the process of trying to get diagnosed, have a great day.:)

[@b_d15]

You’re the man! It’s tough making sense of it all it all so thanks for the breakdown.

[@danielknight4967]

only thing i have to enjoy anymore since i quit everything else is pot. I have no partner, no friends, distant parents, what does one do? There has to be something to keep one going thru this fresh new process of educating myself to live a better life. Im going to try a new therapy place with psychiatrists who know and understand bipolar well and hope for the best

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi Daniel. A very warm welcome to the channel. Thanks for taking the time to share a little bit about yourself. I think it’s awesome that you were able to quit everything else. That’s huge! I talk to countless people who use pot and it really comes down to a quality of life choice... Benefits versus side effects. Noooo judgement here as I used to smoke a heck of a lot of pot 😅 I hope the new doctor is a good fit and that things improve for you. You mentioned feeling like you don’t have very many friends. If you’d like to expand your support circle, I have a really amazing community on “Patreon.” (There’s a link in the video description if you’d like to check it out.) Patreon is a way to contact me directly, support my advocacy work, and network with other people who share the same diagnosis. Take a care of yourself :-) -Rob

[@kellyshelley1427]

Yeah right now that rapid rapid would cover what I'm going through in a lot of ways. I can go from on top of the world to contemplating suicide in the same day and it's been happening several days and quite frankly it's getting to me.

[@JAYX1NE]

I think I’m ultra ultra rapid cycle. My wife is a nurse and pointed it out to me and I just thought it was normal. I tried lamactal and got rash. I now been using Prozac for a month and it has completely changed me and made me feel normal and happy.

[@MarianaFerreira27gatoslindos]

Finally I got diagnosis of cyclothymia and bpd but I think it’s bp2.I rapid cycle between depression and euforia days

[@janisgay5507]

Lithium made my hands tremble badly. Then I was diagnosed with lupus and realized depression phases were flares. THEN I had. An episode of CHF and A-fib. So I am off the Librium,, but I take celexa at night and half an Ativan as needed. I take 9 meds for my heart. I realized I was causing palpatations because of anixiety attack. My doc took me off my low dose thyroid pill that I have been taking for years and attacks are greatly reduced. Of course, stress causes fares and flares mean anxiety a depression. It's ongoing, but I believe management is the key.

[@rebeccacraig4797]

Thank u so much for these videos! They are helping me to understand my one & only sister better & to help her

[@M1S0_D4_B3AN]

Currently in a rapid cycle state for the last week with BP1. Having a combo of mania with hallucinations mixed with depression all at the same time.

[@regierse]

I didn’t know I was bipolar and I started having rapid cycling hypomania. With one long fully manic episode.

[@GGundamBlue]

This is how I am I've been this way sense I was younger I'm 33 now

[@DelaLivi]

I'm definitely a rapid cycler. I don't really notice my hypomanic episodes, but I can sometimes have depressive episodes once a week. It's really debilitating. I was on Seroquel when I was younger, but I didn't like how I felt on it and the medication gave me permanent tics.

[@freebie808]

Thanks

[@Mila-zz7fw]

Wish you all the blessings, thank you for educating and creating safe place

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank you so much!

[@yavuzc927]

Thanks!

[@beverlylamon]

I worked on a locked unit, one afternoon one of my patients got in my face and told me you are nuts, I said yah well you are crazy and I get to leave a 11:00. We both laughed so hard because we were friends and understood each other.

[@PolarWarriors]

Beverly Lamon I know it can be so hard to work in a place like that and I am so grateful for some of the people who cared for me when I was on a hold. I think it’s great that you can develop relationships like that with people and be able to brighten their day a little bit. I’m so grateful for anyone who works with or advocates for those with mental illness. Very warm welcome to my channel :-)

[@TassieJake]

Rob's the man ! 😁 So am I thou 🤗🤗

[@mickymorrison4305]

Rapid cycling is extremely exhausting as well. Things happen so fast and you try to keep a stable mindset to whats going on so as to function daily. It is exhausting!

[@PolarWarriors]

Well said!

[@Miickyyee]

I was told by a doctor and TWO psychiatrist that I did not have a bipolar disorder because my episodes don't last long enough...where did they study? I didn't know rapid cycling was a thing and I kinda don't want to bring it up now that all told me that it was just a depression.

[@corienvandermerwe6887]

Awesome channel! Thank you!

[@PolarWarriors]

Corien's World I’m so glad you found the channel and thank you for supporting what I’m doing! Stop back by anytime :-)

[@j.resihead1835]

I am rapid cycling bipolar 1. Mixed episodes. It sucks. My mood can change within hours. It used to be all the time but now my cycling has been more regular. Just got out of a deep depression that lasted 2 months. Haven't been able to function too well.

[@PolarWarriors]

My psychiatrist always reminds me that any depression lasting more than two weeks is considered an episode and I need to change or adjust my meds. Please don't suffer longer than you need to. Just like if you had a pain in your chest you would go to the doctor, mental illness is just as important as physical illnesses. 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)nd For ten dollars a month you can message Rob directly, watch videos that are more personal in nature and have access to a great community. www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@EBlack-my8mu]

great job

[@bearoso1044]

Thank you

[@PolarWarriors]

You're welcome! Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@rupk5578]

You're very sweet my dude thank u so much for your videos you're truly saving my life ❤️

[@PolarWarriors]

❤️

[@jannag3937]

Is hyper cycling the same as ultra cycling? And thanks so much for this channel, it is amazing!

[@christyler373]

so good great help greetings all 2020

[@kattyk6370]

Thankou🌼 for explainning so clearly🌱

[@j10221978]

This is me so much in a rollercoaster only people that known me all my life can deal with me also I have noticed that before my period i get depressed and differnt bad mixed feelings then when my period starts all those feelins change then i get hypomanic this is destroying my life iam hypersexual hsve cheated and hurt my spouse but me being 41 and never took my medication like suppose to and still refuse to take antipyscotic I cant even talk on those meds also i read a article about treating bipolar with thyroid medication

[@PolarWarriors]

Jennifer thomas Brewer hernandez I hope you can find some balance on your journey. Stop by the channel anytime. You are very welcome here :-)

[@kathyly4661]

You are truly AMAZING!

[@maideacevedo5605]

Thank you !!!!

[@PolarWarriors]

You are most welcome 😊😊☀️☀️ -Rob

[@floydmacintire]

I'm bipolar 1. It became a problem In 1992. I was diagnosed properly in 1998 and was put on lithium, risperidone, lamotrigine and citalopram. My dosage of risperidone was lowered last year from 4mg to 1 mg now I'm back on 4 mg. I've noticed how it changes me and I don't like it. You listed some other anti psychotics as an alternative. I was wondering if you could type them out in the comments section so I could bring these to my next doctor's appointment which is on April 25. My doctor says abilify is the only option, but it has some nasty side affects. I would be for ever in your debt if you could do that.. Thank you for your great videos

[@jbrat1967]

Ty

[@JIMWSMITH]

Whats been a problem for me is getting the doctors to understand whats going on here in the uk. I feel iam a rapid cycler , but my doctor disagrees as i have more downs than ups, but can change within hours. Been on lithium a year and antidepressant for two years and my cycles are getting worse. Getting to see a phsycartist is a nightmare , and had five in the past year due to them keep living. Anyone else have the same issue in the uk .

[@estherpennington7826]

Rapid Cycling Bipolar could often be misdiagnosed Borderline Personality Disorder.

[@Maryyeung12894]

really? so interesting

[@haylsteinn4881]

From what I’ve read/watched they do seem to have a lot of similarities, trying to find what the difference is, diagnosis wise, and if treatment would vary between the two... My partner is diagnosed BP2 (UU rapid cycle) but could tick many of BPD boxes also

[@AutomaticDuck300]

@@haylsteinn4881 so people with Bipolar Disorder have what's called a baseline personality. They still like the same things, have the same political beliefs, have the same sexuality, etc. whether they are up or down. Mood stabilisers are most commonly used to treat it, as mentioned in this video. But people with Borderline Personality Disorder have a crisis of identity where their personality changes regularly and even basic things like what I mentioned above (likes and dislikes, beliefs, sexuality) can change a lot, which is likely where the name comes from. They also have an intense fear of abandonment. There are other symptoms but those are the main two. Presumably ruling out a crisis of identity and fear of abandonment would lead to a diagnosis of rapid cycling bipolar, but I'm no psychiatrist. When it comes to treatment, DBT is a good idea for Borderline. This stands for Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, i.e. talking it out and figuring out how to react differently to the storm of emotions and urges that they feel, so as not to be so out of control. It was created specifically for treating Borderline and interestingly, it might also be effective for autism in some cases. I'm not sure how effective medication would be, but again, I'm no psychiatrist. Bipolar is treated with a combination of mood stabilisers and therapy, possibly CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy). It's also worth noting that people with Bipolar Disorder tend to have episodes (periods of either very high or very low mood which are consistent with little to no change in mood) and these episodes last for a few weeks or a few months, with the exception of the comparatively rare rapid cycling type when the episodes are shorter. People with Borderline Personality Disorder tend to also have mood swings, but these periods of high and low mood tend to last just a few days or even just a few hours. I hope this helps.

[@haylsteinn4881]

@@AutomaticDuck300 Thank you so much for writing this, I really appreciate it. My partner has rapid cycling bipolar and I want to understand it as much as I can.

[@AutomaticDuck300]

@@haylsteinn4881 no problem. What has helped me is a book called Strictly Bipolar by Darian Leader. You can buy it on Amazon. It's very short (90 pages or so) and it goes into the underlying causes of bipolar disorder (guilt, internal conflict, things like that) with real world examples and gives you a different perspective on it. I also found that working on resolving my own guilt and internal conflict has improved my symptoms and ability to deal with them. It's worth a try.

[@chrisburke2085]

Thanks again you are so great

[@kaylawimmer475]

I am a rapid cycling bipolar and an alcoholic and when I’m drinking heavily I cycle so rapidly I don’t even know how I feel at any moment. I’m 5 days sober and I want to quit drinking so badly bc my meds don’t work when I do.

[@lynnmarieanderson1744]

I have run to hospitals WAY too many times, I'm trying to work on staying sane. For all the women out there, and this is really important, if you take birth control pills and you also happen to have bipolar disorder, don't be afraid to ask your doctor or try to look up online if any of your medications for bipolar disorder interfere with birth control pills!!!! Doctors, especially guys, don't always catch that themselves! I know for a fact that the mood stabilizer Trileptal can interfere with birth control pills , you could possibly get pregnant so be very careful, condoms are made for a reason, duh! I unfortunately am a rapid cycler, I baffle these doctors, they just can't seem to figure me out. I just tell them don't try to fix me, just stay a long for the ride. From my point of view, having bipolar disorder is like being on a roller coaster ride you can't get off of, you wish you could but you have this thing for life and it IS serious.

[@hopeseeker97]

I hate rapid cycling. It is like being on a crazy roller coaster with ups, downs, and unexpected loops where you are upside down. You can experience this in a single day especially when triggered. It is exhausting...also tormenting. You just want to get off. Thankfully therapy with meds helps to calm it down and you learn how to go with it. 😞 I also hate mixed states...but that is another story 😖

[@melissaclifton5307]

Currently my situation. Draining

[@lynnanderson2733]

Liked and SubScribe ...yes! Thank u for helping me and my botfriend work through this. You do have have an Idea how difficult this is and the rapid rapid cycle hits home with me. Im 30 and have never been treated. I'm worried but can do this hopefully

[@PolarWarriors]

Lynn Anderson I’m so glad that I have been able to help you and your boyfriend. That’s exactly why I started this channel and it makes me feel so good when people let me know that my work is impacting their life. I know it can be hard to even describe how I feel sometimes, or where to start when it comes to getting help. The fact that you are here, watching videos, learning, and looking for answers, puts you way far ahead of the game. Give yourself some credit for that and I hope you will continue to stop by my channel to learn more :-)

[@ladystrange4769]

Episodes n moods all in one hour- not in a year back n forth back n forth. BP2- ultra ultradian rapid cycle. I annoy my own self🤨🤔🤬anti D’s make me depressed- I know I’m not the only one-it happens a lot with bipolar :/

[@XOsplay90]

Is there any chance rapid cycling could get mixed up with borderline personality disorder? I know bipolar is a mood disorder but from what I've researched, they show similar symptoms

[@andysyark4696]

Rob. I'm so sorry to ask this.. but can someone when manic act narcissisticly like literally and after it comes down, try to rationalize their actions and things they done when manic? She include that she cheated on me simply because she's fell out of love with me. And denial at that same time? (She's rationalize it with saying that she knows what's going on at the time and she was acting out her symptoms to match the criteria) I don't know if i make sense. Because what she's said to me make no sense either. But going from my experience. She's went from my spouse to a Narcissist in 2 weeks. I'm not sure what to ask

[@goddessgomorahh2488]

I don't know how to put what i go through into words really but i'd like some guidance Insomnia started around 13. Anti depressants make me suicidal in 2 wks. I don't really consider my self to be depressed i tend to get angy. I'm ether happy or angry. When i do get depressed its short and i liturally get cold ... feel frozen and i talk my self out of it because i know its not me in 2017 i didn't sleep almost the whole year i just worked. when that crashed. i crashed with it for 3 months i didn't work on nothing i felt guilty but i couldn't do it. Then i started another company after that. Not sleeping again.... i wake up happy but i stay angry i have many good reasons to be angry. i know why im angry but its hard to control. nobody has a clue what i go through i keep it concealed and have 2 people i can talk to. i think i'm suffering now from cabin fever. i haven't gone any where not by choice since october my mom died in december of laster year. my normal escapes like studying working ect just make my skin crawl the only thing i can do is window shop online. i feel like im going nuts. the only thing helping me keep it together is YEARS of mental discipline. again nobody has told me i need help nobody even has a clue what i'm going through inless i tell them. Does this sound familiar ?

[@dickhead1617]

I was a heroin/alcoholic when I got divorced at 40 because of bipolar. I don't take meds because of the abuse of the scripts,so I drank. now I cant drink because of having hep c from heroin. under treatment for the hep c...its a nightmare and I'm a shut in because of violent history. I stay awake for 2-4 days and am off my rocker with mania. then I crash and will be ok for a few days. I'm am enrolled in the v.a. which is the only silver lining in this but is useless if I'm going to abuse the meds to sleep everynight.....now re-read that sloppy paragraph again. that's my week.

[@PolarWarriors]

Dang! Sounds like you have been through a lot man. I'm so glad you are still here. I hope some of my videos help and that you find some relief soon. Sleep is a BIG issue for me too. Stop back by anytime and a warm welcome to my channel.

[@earthangel3108]

I can’t tell if I’m ultra rapid cycling or just moody. My mental health life is a long story but how can I know? Don’t even know if I’m bi polar. I am diagnosed at this point with anxiety and depression but the anxiety has ended me up in a mental hospital 3 times already

[@tiffanyward3169]

Do you have a podcast?

[@PolarWarriors]

Rob doesn't have a podcast right now but he has done two group talks on the new app, Clubhouse. I've been in one and it was really great. Rob led it well, it was like a support group meeting and he read us a script for a video that he had just completed. Very interesting app. Would love to see you there! 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

[@jbl2270]

What is the difference between cyclothymia and rapid cycling bipolar disorder?

[@PolarWarriors]

Hey there ! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. He is offering free support phone calls for all patrons right now. I think you may benefit from that. 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 On Patreon, you can message Rob directly, get a phone/video call, watch videos that are more personal in nature, and access a great community. www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@Iceis_Phoenix]

I have Rapid cycling its so bad I just want life to end I am exhausted

[@Jennifer-kf3io]

I definitely think I am rapid cycling, I can get up and have so many great ideas for what I want to do and within hours go into depression and then get a phone call and be laughing and feel great again like I want to take on the world. I don’t trust people nor drs so where does that put me?

[@elyousfi5661]

Can be cured or it’s a life long disorder ??

[@KrisSummitSeries]

Instant sub

[@rustymarrs4832]

I need help. I cycle daily. It’s pushed me to the brink. I have no support, no help, those I love take it as nothing, over looking it or blowing it off. I’m on a ledge here. I can’t take it anymore.

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi Rusty, cycling daily is tough. Especially when you have no support. I'm sorry you are going through this, and on your own too. Would you consider seeking the support of a therapist or doctor? I don't know if that is an option for you or not where you live. I know not everybody has access to services. There are also support groups available in some areas (in person or online in some cases) that might be helpful. I used to attend a NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) one in person and found it really helpful. You may want to see if there is a local chapter in your area or a local DBSA chapter (Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance) if you are in the states. Your primary care provider may be able to refer you to local resources as well. Take good care and I hope things improve for you soon! -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@rustymarrs4832]

@@PolarWarriors thank you for the response. It actually means a lot. These videos have helped in a way I can’t really put in words. I’ve had good control as much as control is possible over this for years, even without meds I learned to catch it coming and had different coping strategies for different swings. It’s going through a rough time in a failing marriage that’s made it so much worse and without money or insurance help has not been an option. Even here in Texas with so much available to help. Again I do thank you for your reply.

[@PolarWarriors]

@@rustymarrs4832 you're welcome. I'm sorry you don't have access to help right now, with no money or insurance available. That must make things harder. I'm so glad that Rob's videos have been so helpful to you. I hope that somehow you and your spouse can make things work in your marriage as that must be a huge stressor in itself. Wishing you all the best. Take good care

[@rustymarrs4832]

@@PolarWarriors thank you again. I've wanted to talk with him. From how he speaks, I'm going through and have much of the same. I look forward to the day I can donate to keep it going and with that have the chance to speak with him.

[@PolarWarriors]

@@rustymarrs4832 you're welcome! :) Hopefully at some point you'll be able to do that. Take good care and we're glad to have you here in the community! -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@adironimbus9763]

can pregnancy and or cause BPD?

[@gdellaporta]

Dear Robert, I love your blog. This one is one year old, I would like if you speak

[@gdellaporta]

I would like if you could speak slower and softer, I am Italian and for people like me who are not Americans would be much enjoyable a sweet tone. Thank you for your help. Giorgio Della Porta

[@haylsteinn4881]

My hubby is diagnosed BP2 rapid cycle, my guess is ultra ultra as he can cycle multiple times a day. I have a question regarding medication for those who are having success with the treatment... Do you still feel the typical ups and downs or is it more stabilised in the middle, and if the latter, how do you feel about having a smaller range of moods, do you feel like yourself still?

[@aaliyahlareine]

Hi! I love your channel. It’s amazing. I was wondering if it’s okay to drink at all when you’re an ultra ultra rapid cycler? If you are able to in moderation, does that still have a terrible affect? I take lamictal and ceriquil

[@PolarWarriors]

I used to love drinking and I still miss it… Unfortunately that runs in my family and I used to drink a lot… I mean a LOT of alcohol! It wasn’t until I got away from drinking for a long enough and really aware of my symptoms to see how it was affecting them. When I was drinking all the time, it was just a part of my routine. Now if I drink even just a little bit, it will completely mess up my symptoms and system. The hardest thing for me is manic drinking now. I guess I just know better not to drink when I’m depressed, but when I get manic, I still have the desire to escape. I wish I could say moderation was the key, but I really think alcohol is just a nightmare for anyone with bipolar disorder. I’ve tried doing the whole moderation thing, and I think it just made a lot of my symptoms worse. It also made it so much easier to drink a lot when things got really bad again. I just can’t do alcohol... Don’t quote me on this, but I would much rather people smoke pot all day long than to have a couple of drinks at night (even though marijuana can also have really negative affects for some people). Alcohol just doesn’t work well with our illness. I’m sure there are some people who might be able to handle it better than others, but I’ve never seen anything come out of drinking that was good for someone who has bipolar. I hope that helps and thank you for the great question! -Robert www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@sfoemw]

I wish I had a proper diagnosis no dr will talk to me

[@PolarWarriors]

How come? Dianna Polar Warriors Team Member (H)old (O)n (P)ain (E)nd For ten dollars a month you can message Rob directly, watch videos that are more personal in nature and have access to a great community. www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@pikuego]

Is rapid cycling only the case for those with type 1?

[@PolarWarriors]

Yuri Takahashi typically that is the case, because people who have type two will generally have symptoms that last longer. Everyone reacts a little differently, so I’m sure there are people who have cyclothymia or type two bipolar who experience rapid cycling. It’s good to be open-minded about symptoms and not feel like you are in a box. Very good question and I hope my channel is helping :-)

[@karenharvey1437]

I am a ultra ultra rapid cycler. I actually swing from moment to moment. It’s so confusing to the people around me. I’ve been bipolar since I was 13 and I am now 50. Unfortunately, my disease gets worse as I age. My husband left me because he couldn’t handle my bipolar. He took it personally. I tried to educate him, but he wouldn’t listen to me. I am grateful to people who make these videos to educate everyone.

[@bmc1717]

When you say your husband took things personally what kind of things are you speaking of what type of actions?

[@StylezMajorMusic]

sounds just like me, it makes me feel like im a bad person because people take the things I do personally.... all my intimate relationships have been tough... I've been diagnosed with depression anxiety adhd, and possible bi polar... I go from feeling like the champion of the world in the morning, to feeling like life is over by the evening

[@el_loco7798]

Were you taking the medications the whole time? Sorry to hear, don’t give up your strong.

[@karenharvey1437]

@@el_loco7798 I didn’t start taking meds until I was 19. They only put me on antidepressants even though I was suicidal. When I was 23 - I met a really good doctor that put me the right meds. Saved my life. Though I often have to switch my meds up. I’m about to do it now. Thank you for saying I’m strong - I really appreciate it. Please take care.

[@karenharvey1437]

@@StylezMajorMusic Unfortunately, that’s how bipolar can work. It’s hard to find people that understand us and willing to stick my our side, but I know several bipolars who have been married 30 years to the same wonderful person. I wish you luck and don’t give up.

[@chrishansenbiz]

I hate being bipolar. It's great!

[@PolarWarriors]

Christopher Hansen I love that one!

[@yehyeh5066]

That is a good one! 😂

[@eileenfuentes6975]

LOL that's perfect! 😂

[@brantleycoaker2010]

Well I don't like it. Sorry I find no humour in.losing everything I love

[@PolarWarriors]

That is a common saying that is printed on T-shirts… (inside humor among those who have bipolar) It shows the duality of times where we feel like we hate this illness, and times where we feel great. Another version I’ve seen is “I hate being bipolar, it’s awesome!” I can totally see how that would be confusing if you haven’t seen that before. I hope that helps the comment make a little more sense :-)

[@justmai2476]

I can't believe you aren't a doctor or therapist, your channel has been so helpful to me. Every information you share is so concise, clear and well put. I'm also relieved to relate to all these aspects I thought only I experienced. Keep the work up, would love you donate to help you out!

[@livinglifeoutdoorstv6550]

JustMai Today: Yeah! I should be a therapist. Tomorrow: sign up for college. 2nd semester in the program: I hate life no future, I can’t do this... quit. 3 months later: I shouldn’t have quit I would’ve been a great therapist.

[@reannamelton]

@@livinglifeoutdoorstv6550 That's exactly how my college career. Not therapy but environmental science. I barely graduated. Have training for jobs but the inability to follow through and succeed. So frustrating.

[@grobanitepatsfan]

BPD1 with rapid cycling. I've explained it to my Dr as, feeling like you won the lottery then suddenly feel like your best friend passed away. It's so difficult to explain what it really feels like.

[@ianpreston403]

so true 👍

[@philgortbarten]

Robert - you know many people feel aided and befriended and profoundly helped by your videos. so.. what can we do for you? who helps you? your bravery is truly inspirational. would love to even in the teeniest of ways help you back. Very best wishes. Philippa

[@philgortbarten]

hiya Rose, ahh thats a lovely thing to say.. thank you. and yes... I reckon we could find a way!!! seriously...

[@lilsunflower9655]

He has a patreon in the drop box:)

[@arizonabee4011]

I can’t believe I wasn’t diagnosed until my late 40s, your videos are true lifesavers!! Great job!!

[@Safiyyah713]

My husband is 41 and just learned he was bipolar. You are not alone.

[@egoseumdeus9054]

Same happened to me...in my 40's

[@pegagonza3784]

I am 36 :( I am struggling with all those symptoms and haven’t been diagnosed

[@sk61181]

Yeah, 39 here and same.

[@dgunn2817]

I was 56.

[@felizzie251]

I have been misdiagnosed with unipolar depression for almost 10 years and it's such a relief to have finally come upon your videos and this community you help build. Thank you so much.

[@PolarWarriors]

Thank YOU Joey! 🙏

[@biankamittermaier7031]

Same!

[@MichaelBLive]

Me too Joey. I asked to be evaluated for it and denied for several years since I haven't had big life crashes. Had it for 40 years. You can learn to manage to some degree with supportive people around but that's not as good as it sounds since you won't get an easy diagnosis but still struggle. The wrong treatment is what ultimately crashed me enough to get in the hospital to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Scary stuff. I feel fortunate to finally get what I have needed for so long. Thanks for sharing.

[@rcrose8]

Ultra ultra cycler here. I quit drinking about 2 months ago...alcohol is poison, but it’s especially toxic for those of us with bipolar. I never allowed myself to acknowledge this before. I’m coming to accept that I can never touch alcohol again; the chaos is too high of a price to pay. I’m on a mood stabilizer for the first time and back in therapy after being out for a year or so...finally doing the healing work after many years of push back/resistance/escaping. Both feet are in, ready to do the work. I actually want to change and it feels really good. Thank you for the video!

[@JeffreyWilliams-dr7qe]

Edgar Allen Poe widely known for most of this. Perhaps Plato as well!

[@seraph11]

I may or may not have this.. I want to get it checked out

[@PolarWarriors]

_im_not _on_fire I’m so glad the video helped! Do you notice yourself rapid cycling, how often, and do you have a diagnosis (type of bipolar)? Hope you have a peaceful weekend :-)