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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 :-)

[@rayclaire8]

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!

[@maggielochner1310]

I had no idea rapid cycling was a symptom until I got diagnosed with bipolar. I thought I was being misdiagnosed because my episodes weren’t as long as people say they should be. I will make appointments and start a new hobby and might purchase a lot of things in my first half of the day and then at night I drop to the floor and scream and cry and I hate not knowing how long I’ll feel good. I know it won’t last long and I hate it. Therefore I’m never able to finish anything like my hobbies or my chores because I cycle into a depression too fast to finish.

[@frootsnackism]

I'm currently 23, and I got diagnosed with bipolar type II two weeks ago and I've journaled 21 different episodes in the last 6 months, oh god. Granted, a few of those (likey 4 of them, certainly at least 2 though from SSRI induced mania) were due to medicine, but still, oof. As far as onset with depressive symptoms, it was there very strongly by the time I was 10. I was just some kid who had no idea the things I was thinking and the bad things I wanted to do were highly abnormal. I just hope that for anyone out there who is questioning things... it does not hurt to journal your symptoms!!! I have found this extremely helpful.

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi @ihaveseverefrootsnackism! Thanks for joining the conversation in the comments! And - a warm welcome to the "Polar Warrior Club" :p I was put on an SSRI when I was 20 and it caused me to be manic for a long time. Had no idea what was happening to me at the time. Whew! What a wild ride it's been. It would be great to stay connected... I'll include a link below to my private community on Patreon. It's where you can message me directly anytime (and access a lot of content I don't post on KZbin). www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors Take extra good care of yourself @ihaveseverefrootsnackism and I hope you will continue to stop by the channel. I appreciate you =) -Rob Whittaker, Polar Warriors

[@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 👍

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@IzwoldChannel]

I don't have this illness but my daughter has, it's so very upsetting to see your much loved child in such turmoil, so much so that I may as well be a suffer too. Thank you kindly for your help and time in helping others to know they are not alone. Blessings.

[@angeladaniel2992]

I completely agree

[@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:)

[@Mandapanda1987x]

This is me. I'm bp 1 rapid cycling. Pure hell. Glad I finally got on medication and my life is so much better.

[@jamielynngallegos9196]

What do you take please?

[@hunterjesse9497]

3:16 yep that’s me I cycle between hypomanic and depressive states basically weekly

[@jerihayes4018]

I am so glad I found u. I was told that I was bipolar when I was 40 by my family doctor. I am 70 now.

[@carolynjaynes36]

I was misdiagnosed with major depressive disorder for many years and I just got bipolar 2 rapid cycling diagnosis at 58. I’m responding well to Gabapentin as a mood stabilizer. Also taking Wellbutrin for depression and BuSpar for anxiety. Psychiatrist sees me every month and I’m in an IOP (intensive outpatient program) 3 days a week for extra support. I’ve been sober for 38 years. I also go to OA to stay abstinent from binge eating to cope with symptoms. I’m stable with a lot of help and support. Thank you for your helpful videos!

[@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

[@michaelblyth431]

Hi. As a retired vicar who got diagnosed in 2003 and who retired early as a result in 2012 it's good to be reminded of which parts of me are my 'symptoms'. It's so easy to get confused whatever age you are. Greetings to all my fellow Bipolar Bears out there!

[@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

[@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 :-)

[@renayfariequeen]

I dont leave the house that often. Im a rapid cycler. We also get really confused. And sometimes loose are mind.

[@lindamurray8673]

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

[@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.

[@kellyhendrickson2178]

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

[@candicemariebeadco]

You're an angel on earth in human form.

[@PolarWarriors]

You are too Candice! 🙏

[@barbaralong5452]

I finally was diagnosed in my late teens...up for a short time- I would be very active and felt like I could do anything,but then I would crash hard and I would go deeper still and stay there forever..I nearly ended it more than once.. I am in treatment now- it has saved my life!! Thanks for the videos,they are so informative and I have learned a lot about myself!thanks so very much!!!!!

[@christinerice66]

Thank you so much...I am able to use these to show my husband what I go through. I am having daily cycles right now.

[@PolarWarriors]

Christine Rice Daily cycles can be so exhausting. I’ve been going through that a lot myself, especially with the changing of the season. I’m so glad the videos are helpful! Educating our partners is so important to a healthy relationship, so good on you for watching videos, Sharing information with your partner and learning more about Bipolar together! A very warm welcome to my channel and stop by anytime :-)

[@kateylouu96]

I found your channel to help my mom understand me better - well you also ME understand me better! Thank you so much!!

[@PolarWarriors]

You are so welcome!

[@Bel5647]

I am bipolar and learning about my condition is eye opening now i am starting to understand ME!!

[@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.

[@riverpolk5047]

I’ve been struggling with severe treatment-resistant depression and anxiety for years. I’m looking to have my diagnoses reconsidered for bipolar. Your videos have been really helpful in learning about the condition and the various ways it presents itself. They have helped inspire Me to contact professionals and try and find better help. I love your approach to presenting the information and I appreciate the efforts to educate.

[@YouTubeNetworkingCommunity]

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

[@YouTubeNetworkingCommunity]

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]

@@KZbinNetworkingCommunity sir how are uou you now ?

[@paulsharkey6576]

I was diagnosed with Cyclothymia about 15 years ago. I smoked pot for many years knowing that I had Cyclothymia. I was ultra ultra rapid cycling. It was a disaster. I'm now on the proper medication, and I have not smoked pot for about a year and a half. I am 1000% better. My moods are within range for the first time in my life. I actually feel good almost most of the time now. Such relief.

[@lunamarie1162]

I am so very very proud of you!!! I self meditation for years and it was horrible!!! I know longer do that and now I see my doctors and my meds are working wonderful🙏🙏 You are truly a blessing!!!

[@churly9717]

Me, 2 weeks up 4 weeks down. At least I get a holiday from the depression. Kept me alive till diagnosis.

[@hula62]

Thank you for explaining bipolar in a way that the common person can understand. It is appreciated.

[@kimmieann316]

I have been diagnosed with bipolar for 11 years...today I saw a doctor and was told I am rapid cycling . Never heard this before and I’m here . I feel like I don’t even know my mind anymore . Thank you for explaining.

[@PolarWarriors]

You're not alone Kimmie Ann 🙏

[@aquablue66]

Giving my help to fellow bipolar 1 folks is VERY therapeutic in my disease. Repeat this in your mad life - your bipolar existence.

[@PolarWarriors]

Carlos Rios absolutely. I definitely get a lot of joy and my own therapy from researching and making these videos.

[@amandafuhrmann195]

You have taught me so much about my brain. I'm a new warrior and your matter-of-factness calms me as i wrap my head around this. Thank you thank you thank you!!!

[@grangrampa832]

Your videos are the most accurate and educational of any others I also see so many symptoms in myself when you talk about them your videos are better than any threrapist oh pshyciatrist I speak to and believe me that’s been plenty 😊👍

[@PolarWarriors]

That's awesome, I'm so glad that Rob's videos have been so beneficial to you! Thanks so much for your comment. It's much appreciated! :) -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@dropexpectations12]

I have bipolar 1 with rapid cycling .... Its hard

[@stelthdamage9060]

Me too. Bipolar 1 ultra rapid cycling.

[@KelaHoneyBee]

Same

[@starshinewatchdog8058]

I know

[@justinamontgomery2618]

I just love you and am so proud of you.....I hope you truley realize how much we need you.....our family can not find meds that work for 12 years....my thoughts go to wishing there was just like a day care for ones to go while manic that was safe and just a change of environment for our loved ones to go for a few hours a day....where they could just talk and be heard.....and then get picked back up....the phych ward is not a good place with our expierance.....and they always send my husband home over medicated and in more danger...I wish I could start a hotline just to talk to ones with bi polar.....sometimes they just need to talk.....with no emotional attachment involved...anyways....I am so proud of you.....keep up the wonderful job and thanks for serving us! We love you from duluth, MN

[@PolarWarriors]

You should check out the app, Clubhouse, you might find some people who want to talk. We also have a really great community on Patreon. Would love to have 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 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

[@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 🕊

[@starshinewatchdog8058]

Rapid cycler here FML. Your videos help me get through. Appreciate it

[@mbzelmo]

Thank you so much for this channel ... and for every video you've made ... and will make. My daughter has type 1, rapid cycling bipolar for 20 years (she is 35). Try as I may have, I couldn't understand her or this terrible disease. God bless you and the work you do, shedding light on bipolar.

[@PolarWarriors]

Hey there Marybeth ! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. For a very limited time he is offering free support phone calls for all patrons right now in which he can lend an ear, give advice or answer questions. 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 Hey there donna ! Rob is available on patreon. You can message him, text or even have a call with him there. For a very limited time he is offering free support phone calls for all patrons right now in which he can lend an ear, give advice or answer questions. 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

[@shannonfrench2727]

And now after watching the video I am more positive about trying med's again. I got guinea pigged on many of the med's you mentioned but nothing worked. Having this information will help me discuss this with my doctor. Thank you Robert!

[@PolarWarriors]

Wonderful!

[@bellezanegra0206]

I’m so depressed. This is confirmation of everything I’m going through. I just want to pay for my final expenses.

[@nicorizzo5402]

I'm diagnosed with rapid cycling but before I got medicated I hadn't been euthymic for at least a year. I was just constantly alternating between depression, mania, and mixed episodes every few weeks.

[@PolarWarriors]

Me too… I cycle so rapidly, it can make the periods of stability a little less often or not last as long. Rapid cycling and mixed states are definitely not fun. I hope talking about them helps and you are very welcome here :-) -Robert www.patreon.com/PolarWarriors

[@patriciaspires5450]

Thank you! Rapid cycling is like being on a merry go round! Been bipolar for 30 years! Yes up down and all around

[@yavuzc927]

Thanks!

[@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 .

[@toddm6999]

You are honest and so courageous for helping people understand there diagnosis...

[@arteblack13]

My prayers for all of you. May we all find our perfect places in life this new year. Perfect internal and external places. Bless you all.

[@grangrampa832]

You strong so helpful to me I’m on so many meds and I also rap cycle I was also a drug abuser which does make things worse I really am proud of you for helping others you seem so tog and strong and intelligent you give m incentive to try and recognize my symptoms and try to act out on some crazy thoughts 😊🥰🥰🥰

[@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

[@theblackenedphoenix]

It took me so long to get my diagnosis because every professional I encountered didn't believe ultra rapid much less ultra ultra rapid cycling actually existed. I didn't get my diagnosis until I finally met a therapist that understood you can cycle quickly.

[@andrevandeventer3041]

I am bipolar 1 and I have found your videos really brilliant. My family dont really believe in mental illness and depression. I get the sentence: Get your head right and just stop being moody/get up out of bed! I have made a page on Facebook (Two sides of me) and I am posting your videos. Thank you for educating me and all my followers. I find it fantastic and your info is spot on and well studied. I hope you dont mind me using the videos but Polar Warriors is the type of channel that might wake my family up.

[@ML8ooof1]

I feel grandiose and very excited in the morning and depressed in the night I think life is meaningless and I feel hopeless.

[@joeanon8641]

I’m currently in talks with my GP and have a therapy appointment soon. I originally suspected SAD, because of suicidal thoughts and plans etc. I was nearly hospitalised recently, and the only reason I wasn’t was because it was the police and someone in my life is in the police. They drove down at 4am to stop them. They also told me that for a few weeks they’ve been worried about me because I’ve been acting strange. I’ve not noticed it too much. I feel on top of the world, amazing, I can feel energy vibrating through my body. Then, I just crash and will not have any thoughts other than suicide or self sabotaging my life to give me a reason to be sad. I don’t know what’s going on, but I’m going to enquire about bi polar disorder anyway to be sure. Thank you.

[@shannonfrench2727]

I'm just 31 seconds into this video and already I want to say THANK YOU! This rapid cycling is so hard to understand much less explain. You have been so much help to me! Now on to the video...

[@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.

[@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

[@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 :-)

[@chickensdontsurf]

I love what you chose for the background of this video! And another great video, as well, thank you. I thought I was type 2, but add ultra ultra, as well. Fun times

[@PolarWarriors]

Ultra ultra rapid cycling is rough! I have dealt with that before myself. The level of rapid cycling seems to come and go for me at various phases in my life. I hope the rapid cycling goes away for you. Take care. -Rachel (Polar Warriors team member)

[@chickensdontsurf]

@@PolarWarriors Rachel, you have given me hope, then, I wasn't sure if it was permanent or not. It was rough before I was on my current med, but I can feel it still happening, as if it's "behind glass", I asked about this in the patreon community recently. But the hope that it can change later on, you have just made me so happy! thank you!

[@PolarWarriors]

@@chickensdontsurf you're welcome! I haven't always had rapid cycling and it has changed over time for me. I have gone from rapid cycling to ultra rapid cycling to ultra ultra back to regular rapid cycling and then maybe some stretches where things shift less frequently. I don't think rapid cycling is always permanent. I think it varies a lot depending on the individual person and how well their symptoms are managed. I'm of course not a doctor and can't promise it will go away for you in the future, just hoping that it does at some point or that it will at least slow down in time

[@soiled.doilies]

I haven't been diagnosed with rapid cycling, just with Bipolar 1 after a hospitalization in my early 20s. But Ive never heard somebody explain and break down the differences between the all the rapid cyclings. I resonated alot with the ultra rapid cycling and ultra ultra rapid cycling, especially then in my early 20s as I was abusing substances at the time before the hospitalization as well. Thank you so much for these videos, the information and for letting us know we are not alone!

[@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

[@Carole_Williamson]

I have rapid cycled during the course of 1 day. It is damn uncomfortable. In one therapy session I went from hypomanic/anxious to extremely depressed a couple times each during the course of about 20 minutes. My therapist called me an ambulance, (after asking me if it was ok). FYI i am clean and sober for almost 26 years. Bipolar II diagnosis in sobriety.

[@MichaelBLive]

I get swings in the same day or mania from happy to raging in a single day. I'm unclear how long this has been going on. Also have ADHD complex type, depression/anxiety treatment put me in the worst cycling for the past 9 months. New treatment plan in place for a week is working for me. I never had the psychotic parts type 1 people can get. My first hospital stay complete. Hopeful and feeling healthy for the first time in years. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@dennisfortin4841]

Thank you for educating people on this very impactful disorder my whole family is affected by it keep up the good work

[@learningasigo6424]

Thank you for sharing the information. I have recently been diagnosed with bipolar two/PTSD. Long story short I was bullied. It took five years to be diagnosed. I thought about taking medicine at first (mood stabalizer) but as I am learning more I don't think I am going to. Looking back I relize if it was bipolar or PTSD. The scariest past for me is in rapid cycling plus stress I have suicidal thoughts. But advice I learned was "It is a thought, do not entertain the idea". I am thankful for my therapist. Instead of going to vent it is learning how to manage my anxiaty, self care, ect.

[@Manticornio]

I'm so glad I found your channel, words can not express how thanful I am for all your dedication and all the information you bring.

[@stevedryden803]

I am so glad you are an ultra cycler I am ultra and ultra, ultra. I have never used an illicit substance. I get lots of mixed episodes and attempted suicide twice when in that state.

[@juliettemacdonald5792]

So I am an “ultra ultra rapid cycler”. I find that I have certain situations that can flip a normal or manic state into a quick spiral down to a depressed state so bad I just want to turn my mind off so I can escape the horrible feeling. What triggered my breakdown was not being able to get an alcoholic boyfriend to move out. My son was only 2 + the rule was he was not to drink around him. When he started breaking this rule consistently I asked him to move out + that was when his truly nasty side appeared. This loss of control over my environment took me back to my childhood with an untreated emotionally + physically abusive untreated paranoid schizophrenia mother who I I was powerless, as a child, to escape. Then I came home one day + was unable to find my canary- cage was empty. He played a sick game of helping me find it’s body that his cat had mauled + killed. The next day I went into a “mini-psychotic-like state” where in my mind I’d see + hear my canary in the cage + then it’s body. This repeated over + over + I could not stop it. When I was 7 I had my 1st experience with death when a baby bird was found in our yard with a broken wing. Despite our efforts to help it it died + that night I pictured myself buried underground but alive. I cried most of the night as I thought one by one of all the people I’d never see again. Then amazingly the whole idea of heaven + living forever, in paradise, somehow entered my mind + I was OK....happy + peaceful. My older sister died + at her funeral her eyes were like the birds eyes. I see now how everything was connected + why I OD’d to stop the mental visions + pain. I was initially diagnosed as “clinically depressed” but 3 moths later, when I saw my therapist + psychiatrist, I had 3-4 negative events occurring but was so happy. I was then diagnosed as Bipolar 1. What triggers my depressions is anger due to someone or a business more powerful than me that is a stressor or is creating a problem for me. I feel such overwhelming anger that quickly becomes depression. So I understand the association but need to now develop a strategy that I use to change my feelings in response to a stressor that I view as having a power to negatively affect my life somehow. Sorting it out will involve researching articles etc but, hopefully, the pay off will be well worth it.

[@PolarWarriors]

Juliette MacDonald It sounds like you have definitely been through a lot of trauma and I’m so sorry you had to experience things like that. There are so many things that can cause symptoms to surface. Triggers are huge. It sounds like what you described is a combination of triggers and PTSD, but I’m not a medical professional so don’t mind if my observation is not accurate to your situation. You are on a wonderful path by being aware of your feelings and searching for answers to try and live a more peaceful life. I am going to discuss triggers in depth on this channel in the near future. There is so much I can say about that. The more you learn about bipolar symptoms, the more you will start to recognize the patterns of the illness and triggers a lot easier. That is something I am still working very hard on to this day. I have many of my own triggers, based on Trumatic past experiences and it definitely takes a lot of time to work through those. I hope you will continue to stop by and thank you again for sharing about your life with us!

[@loulou7810]

I was recently diagnosed at 34yrs old, your videos are awesome, you explain everything in a easy to understand, kind, calming way, that I find to be very helpful, and mood stabilizing. Thank you so so very much, you are a God send, best wishes and blessings for you and your family.

[@rebquistrebquist3185]

To reinforce the idea that treatment is as individual as symptoms I am an ultra-rapid cycler who has been Lithium responsive. Now the anti-psychotic I'm on takes care of the rapid cycling and helps enough that the side effects of Lithium now out weigh the benefits. Thanks again for a super video!

[@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

[@jazzyfizzle5858]

Thanks again Rob.

[@PolarWarriors]

Jazzy Fizzle For sure! Hope you have a really good weekend :-)

[@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

[@junkieapathy]

Thank you for clarifying the criteria and behavior included in rapid cycling bipolar!!! I have Bipolar 1 and much of the time I cycle rapidly. Crying in the morning then bullet proof by noon. I'm a recovering drunk and junkie but I still battle with not trusting myself much of the time. I feel like I will finally convince myself to pull the trigger. Thank you for the information and reminding me I'm not alone!!!!!!!! p.s. you do an excellent job speaking and presenting yourself!

[@livinglifeoutdoorstv6550]

I know this feeling. It hurts.

[@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.

[@vasantipunchoo3699]

I relate but so sad that we don't get the understanding of this phenomenon from most people

[@brittsknee9012]

You should monetize. I mean you're doing this for the right reasons, helpin others. You earned that monetization.

[@beckylarsson393]

For a few months I was ultra ultra rapid cycling. Im surprised that i survived it... I would pace back and forth all night switching between laughing and talking and dancing with myself, to crying my eyes out, slapping myself and peering hatefully at the people outside my window while planning my suicide. Like 10 mins up 10 mins down... I ended up hospitalized.

[@Dewigitam]

I had it last week and it was indeed very horrible, I wish I wouldn't have to experience such a thing anymore...I mean, not that fast please. It's really exhausting.

[@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.

[@SydneyInTheSky]

Thank you for this, I am trying to learn all I can to be a supportive spouse and this is really helpful.

[@Cleeooor]

Thank you so much for this! I’ve been diagnosed with rapid cycling bipolar disorder at the age of 14 now in my early 20s I’ve managed to understand it more and found a good cocktail of meds that works for me 😊

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi Cleo! So glad to hear you're doing well with your current medication regimen. Can take some time to get there. If you'd like to speak to Rob directly and access exclusive content, I'd encourage you to consider joining him on Patreon. 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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@alliterati1]

Wow. I didn't realize what happened to me with SSRIs happens that much. It actually was my response to SSRIs that prompted my first bipolar screening.

[@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 :-)

[@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 :-)

[@dansimpkins7933]

Another great video mate! Your a hero with ya your efforts and your time

[@tjwerkmann1837]

Thank you for your videos. It's nice to read other ppls comments because I am going through a lot of mood cycles. I have been diagnosed as a rapid cycled with bp2, but not officially by a physciatrist. 19 years ago the psych I was seeing said that he was changing diagnosis to type two, but I stopped seeing him not long after. Since then, I have had two docs and 1 psychiatric nurse practioner (who is prescribing my meds). I cycle a lot through the day/night. Usually, something stupid sets it off. Prime example would be my boss. What worries me is if I have BPD instead. I do have hyper/happy episodes about 5-6 times a year, and when I get a really bad depression it actually makes my body hurt. For some reason, I'm more comfortable with BP2 than BPD.....Sorry so I'm depth but I would appreciate anyone's opions and/or experiences.

[@robyncampbell8700]

My boyfriend has this. He’s now starting to get medication and accepting that he has bipolar. But I feel sad and alone. I really love him and I’m sorry for the pain he is going though. But I feel lost and hurt as I’m a very sensitive as well and have some mental health issues also. And I try to tell myself that he has a mental illness and not to take things personally. I’m not trying to speak negatively of him, I love him dearly but sometimes I don’t know who to talk to or what to do. Sorry I’m rambling, I didn’t know where else to go. Thank you for the video. Your content has really helped us, it’s just a rough patch.

[@PolarWarriors]

Hi Robyn, sounds like things are a bit tough right now. It might be helpful for you to seek support for yourself, if you aren't already doing that, so that you have someone to talk things through with who can give you some feedback and emotional support. We all need that at times. This could be a counselor or a trusted wise friend or family member. It's always good to remind ourselves not to take things personally when someone is unwell and in an episode. At the same time, that doesn't mean that we need to accept harmful or hurtful behavior or words. I'm not sure what's going on but I do hope things improve soon for both of you. All the best to you and your boyfriend! -Rachel (Polar Warriors Team Member)