How to manage bipolar disorder - 6 Strategies

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Click here to download the Manage Bipolar Packet markspsychiatry.com/manage-bipolar/

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome!

[@jocalynegreen2710]

Do you have bipolar

[@DrTraceyMarks]

No I don't. My experience is based on treating hundreds of patients with it.

[@leticiat2974]

Thank you so much. I was diagnosed BPDII some years ago. I have been in treatment ever since, with medication and therapy, but I had never heard about this approach to deal with recurrences.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Leticia!

[@darksoul479]

What I have found other than taking my medication, the most important thing for me is to get enough sleep.

[@markguyver1211]

Sleep quality, too. That's a highly important detail. Structuring your evening (your whole day matters, but evening focus is a good start) so that you hit deep sleep for at least 1 sleep cycle helps tremendously. It may mean that you sleep slightly shorter hours, but really getting into a deep sleep state has been invaluable for me.

[@pumpkinpie9778]

@@markguyver1211 how can I improve sleep quality? I have insomnia so my sleep is bad sometimes

[@minaso81307]

YES!!!

[@breanna5909]

Exactly! I’m diagnosed bipolar as well and I swear that helps!! And walking in nature, that helps too

[@TerriBrownWeaver]

I have bipolar I. The best thing I do to sleep is listen to a sleep app throughout the night. I use Breethe but there are others like Calm. I bought the comfortable headband earbuds. I listen every night without fail. It has been a lifesaver. 😴

[@reFocusZone]

Everyone remember this one: “ANY kind of MOVEMENT is an IMPROVEMENT.” ... (and pat yourself on your back every time you decide to make movements, even if it’s just getting up to put your dirty dishes in the sink or take out the trash 🗑 👏🙌

[@somnium5603]

Exactly! This is sooo difficult X_x

[@lesleymcshanemitchell9651]

I make myself to do 3 tasks a day [at least] Like Vacuum/Chnge my bedclothes/Shower Seems little things there Huge to me to get out of bed

[@aprestoargentino5695]

Wise words, mate!

[@MINDSPARK-u6e]

_Recent research has found a correlation between low vitamin D levels and neuropsychiatric illness. Specifically, it has been noted that vitamin D deficiency has been found to be associated with bipolar depression._ _Vitamin B1, vitamin B 5 vitamin B6, vitamin B9 vitamin B12 in conjunction with vitamin D, if taking these vitamins three times a week for two to sometimes 2 1/2 months. Can you cure your bipolar disorder_ _Almost 100% of the worlds mental and physical sicknesses that happens internally are caused from vitamin deficiencies_

[@cmmcmm1479]

Yeah, unfortunately that doesn't pay the bills, which causes more stress

[@gabagaba4023]

1. Identify Triggers 2. Record Your Moods With A Mood Diary 3. Establish A Daily Routine 4. Have An Activity Plan (Disaster Management Plan) 5. Use Dark Therapy (Dark Environment From 6pm to 8am) 6. Relapse Prevention Plan (Strategy to avoid triggers or be less reactive to them)

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks for the summary.

[@gabagaba4023]

No problem thanks for the great video.@@DrTraceyMarks

[@NikkiEssinOz]

Sharon Eldridge if you take a look at the bit where the doctor is wearing a pair of orange glasses, that should explain it. It's essentially to do with your circadian rhythm and reducing the type of light that is around you. Hope that helps :)

[@sumitbhattacharya4402]

This is what exactly does when they have no idea of the illness

[@monicavaccaro4950]

Hello, doctor, I'm happy to listen to your tips. I have been suffering all my life with this illness. Until one day, finally, God had mercy of me, and I met an excellent therapy she prescribes me a med that helps me control the episodes has been 6 yrs. Still, lately, I notice that my event is often repeating. I'm driving crazy My husband and I feel crying for nothing. I'm afraid of taken other medications please can you give me any other advice or sent me your link so I can read more about your plan I would appreciate thank you so much. God bless you 🙂

[@victorialuke1688]

being bipolar in the pandemic yay i feel like i'm in a 6 months rollercoaster by now, I'm exhausted

[@neagoemihaela7085]

Buna ziua ! As dori sa stiu daca trebuie sa ma îngrijoreze sa stau in preajma soțului meu după ce si a omorât mama?

[@ohblondishone]

Yes. I'm feeling this intensely. Up and down all the time.

[@sydneyjoiner1677]

seriously

[@TheRadiantSoap]

I hope having places to go and more routines to follow again will fix me back to how i was before

[@JohnWilliams-dk9wd]

@@neagoemihaela7085 A lua o viață este la un nivel următor instabil, autoapărarea nu este inclusă. Atenție. Am trăit cu cineva care a luat viață și nu a fost un mediu sănătos. Tendințe volatile.

[@hey34]

How to manage bipolar disorder - 6 strategies 1. Identify things that trigger an episode 2. Keep a record of your moods, e.g. mood diary 3. Establish a daily routine: build your time around anchor points 4. Have an activity plan for when you're in an low mood episode 5. Use dark therapy (6PM-8AM) can be blue light blocking glasses especially in a high mood episode 6. Have a relapse prevention plan, using step 1. Make sure to take your meds

[@Diana-sb4yl]

Not necessarily meds drugs.. Research those drugs. Coercion n fear is, I would encourage ppl to check out mad in America

[@DK-sg3oe]

Kakaka 😂😂😂

[@lucyricardo8713]

Thanks for listing this!

[@oliviaperryman8622]

Thank you for the break down 🎉

[@user-w8jhtre23]

All of that can be done without meds, meds doesn't help after some time. They only poison you slowly.

[@lunaryear9938]

“Movement is an improvement” I like it doc

[@susanveraldi8788]

If all doctors were as knowledgeable and able to explain this disease, we may conquer this. Thank you for your knowledge!!!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks so much Susan!!!

[@dancer1]

All about diet

[@HealingandProtection]

it is a lack of protein binding, in brain.

[@8teillumin]

Isnt it a neurological imbalance rather than a disease.

[@lisaelrod4474]

@@HealingandProtection do you have any info where I can read about that, please?

[@reginarendon4854]

I watch your videos because my daughter was diagnosed with bipolar 2 a few years ago, and it has been a real roller coaster ride in our family. Numerous hospitalizations and several suicide attempts as well. Your knowledge and thoroughness of teaching about mental illness is superb!

[@thiangsheene2329]

How did u know that ur daughter was bipolar

[@spiderbite1116]

you sound like an amazing mom :) if my mom had taken the time and care to do that for me i feel like our relationship would have been a lot different back when i was suicidal and acting out. god bless you

[@kalam_or_kalpana2489]

How is she now ?

[@kasondaleigh]

Excellent advice. I’ve always taken naps in addition to eating well and walking my dog in my attempt to manage my illness. I swear by my routine. My issues still arise, but my schedule has really helped cut down on the chaos and stress when I have a breakdown. Best wishes to all those dealing with this nightmare.

[@anthonysalatino8793]

At age 55 i'm embarassed to say I needed this but wow. THANK YOU

[@spreadhappiness9934]

Ohh.. that just represents the fighting spirit inside you!! Best wishes to u

[@NicFarra]

I'm 59, and I've been struggling with a relapse for the past two months. This has been very useful. I'm very grateful.

[@2bullcrap]

Hang in there, my friends and take care of yourselves the best that you can.

[@heathmckinnon4005]

Thanks Dr Tracey. I have lived with bipolar for 24 years...the last time I was in hospital was in 2008. It was serious but now under control. Thanks for your podcasts, every bit helps. Heath.

[@KimJilene]

How were you able to control or manage your bipolar? I am still struggling…😢

[@jenniferjeffreys6829]

Just wondering are you on medication for it? I would like to know if one can go without medication

[@yssemhair]

At 41 I've had almost 20 years since being diagnosed with Bipolar 1. Your mental health explanations have been the best I've ever seen. I say this because I've had many an episode where I have spent hours reading or listening to individuals trying to explain what I was experiencing. Just like the right combo of meds and strategies, we find you. I've learned what my triggers are and can usually identify them. The loss of control is my weakness though. But we move forward and I think once a person accepts it and tries to move forward, life gets a lot more bearable. Thank you.

[@tstreeter1141]

I'm absorbed in self pity right now , but would like to try these tips in the future.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Ok, I hope they help you. 🙂

[@y04a]

You can do it!! I am climbing out of the same hole. I was diagnosed 5 years ago, and have only recently accepted my diagnosis and am trying to work with it. You can too! :)

[@fransiscozip1459]

Structure your sleep first...long walk..big meal ...a good nights sleep....

[@RichRobinson]

I want to give this wonderful lady a hug for all the content she’s put out into the world for us. I can’t tell you how grateful I am.

[@busybeeclass]

Thanks so much, Doctor! This should be required viewing for all diagnosed folks and their families...so helpful and simply presented. This has really helped my entire family. You are a God-send!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Oh you're so welcome! Glad it's helpful.

[@MINDSPARK-u6e]

_Recent research has found a correlation between low vitamin D levels and neuropsychiatric illness. Specifically, it has been noted that vitamin D deficiency has been found to be associated with bipolar depression._ _Vitamin B1, vitamin B 5 vitamin B6, vitamin B9 vitamin B12 in conjunction with vitamin D, if taking these vitamins three times a week for two to sometimes 2 1/2 months. Can you cure your bipolar disorder_ _Almost 100% of the worlds mental and physical sicknesses that happens internally are caused from vitamin deficiencies_

[@trajackson22]

I got diagnosed at 25 and had been given meds for 7 years prior based off anxiety/depression which ended up being medication that heightened my manics and made things significantly worse until I was put on the right meds. I'm 28, almost 29 now and still trying to figure out the best ways to manage this. Thanks for the videos. They're providing with me some much needed peace of mind. My family is dismissive about it so I don't feel like I have anyone to really talk to about this stuff. Thanks to everyone sharing their stories too. Your stories are inspiring me to give each day another chance.

[@manthansharma9838]

Dr. Tracey Marks is extremely brilliant and a great communicator. She explains things in such a simple language that it becomes easy to understand. Her videos are just about the right length and do not get boring. Thanks a ton Dr. Tracey. I am a big fan and have been a Bipolar for about 25 years now. You explanation of the difference between Bipolar 1 and 2 was also fantastic. I am now going through all your lectures (videos) one by one Thanks for all the help to the Bipolar Community.

[@ronemtae3468]

Most important tip I can give anybody I was diagnosed bipolar in 1978 it wasn’t called bipolar then but the most important thing you can do is to keep a journal to keep a running chronological record of what’s going on so you can look back and maybe be able to recognize a manic episode of depressive episode and you’ll notice that you can make a change you can put yourself in a better position when you’re in an extreme mood

[@michellev.2149]

I truly appreciate all your videos! I feel like I’ve gotten more answers and a better understanding from you than I have with well over a decade of therapy. I even share your videos with my therapist and she finds them helpful too! So thank you! You are literally saving lives! Please don’t stop!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Michelle! thanks so much for the encouragement. I enjoy doing the videos and have no plans of stopping. But They do take time, so it is good to get validation from time to time that people appreciate them. Thanks for sharing the videos as well.

[@MINDSPARK-u6e]

_Recent research has found a correlation between low vitamin D levels and neuropsychiatric illness. Specifically, it has been noted that vitamin D deficiency has been found to be associated with bipolar depression._ _Vitamin B1, vitamin B 5 vitamin B6, vitamin B9 vitamin B12 in conjunction with vitamin D, if taking these vitamins three times a week for two to sometimes 2 1/2 months. Can you cure your bipolar disorder_ _Almost 100% of the worlds mental and physical sicknesses that happens internally are caused from vitamin deficiencies_

[@Bboyd455]

Thank you for the download! I just recently been diagnosed with Bipolar disorder , after only being treated for just anxiety and depression. It all makes sense now . After all these years🤷🏽‍♀️.

[@azzuro_greenleaf]

Hi Tracey, So, I'm 16 years old, and, to keep it short, i know that something is "not okay" with me since i was 12. I talked to my parents about it too, I openly told them that I want to get a therapist, but basically they refused with the explanation that "therapists just want to MAKE you sick and to show you how sick you are" , so that's that. My girlfriend knows about my struggles, and about a month ago, she noticed that the stuff that I'm dealing with seems to have very similar symptoms to the symptoms of bipolar disorder. We talked about it and stuff, and of course we know that we could easily be wrong but since I can't do anything else, I will try to use your mood diary and the stuff that you linked to maybe test if it will help me. I wanted to thank you for everything, your videos are my only help at the moment and I appreciate that so much. Thank you for your time, your dedication, everything.

[@jamieb8216]

I just saw this but you can go to your school social worker for help! Atleast then you can have an adult on your side and can explore options

[@KKRB3]

I've been semi-diagnosed with Bipolar II (never 100% confirmed but strongly suspected by multiple previous therapists) and this video made me burst into a full sob-cry in realizing that a lot of my depression trigger is being so scared and overwhelmed with everything that even basic tasks and aids like the ones stated in the video feel violently out of reach and borderline impossible for me to keep up with for longer than 2 weeks tops. I ofc feel awful in the general sense but this opened my eyes to a lot of triggers / reactions / etc. I didn't consider before, even with how simple they seem. Thank you so much for this wonderful resource!

[@lankanetizen8240]

This particular video changed my life at least by 60 to 70 % . Thank you Dr.Tracey . You are awsome . God bless your heart

[@tcharles8172]

I'm in a really strange place right now, I feel I sledding in to a depressed state. I'm crying as I write this. However, I was actually writing this to tell you thank you for your antics about the blue blocker glasses & your rookie mistake. It actually caused me to laugh and smile. But my laugh quickly turned into tears. That fact that I'm looking for the least little thing to smile about and be motivated by is saddening. Everything thing seems overwhelming right now. I know I have things to do or even know what to do but I just can't seem to get jump started... This is the worst! I have to find a way to take care of me.

[@Sharon-sw7mr]

I hope you feel better.

[@jenniferswenson4956]

I'm sorry your were feeling so depressed. I'm depressed and crying now. May you be feeling better.

[@tcharles8172]

@@jenniferswenson4956Thanks, it's been months since I wrote that and I feel better now than then. I noticed you responded recently though. I hope you can feel you feelings enough to understand them. I was feeling overwhelmed at the time. I felt every decision I was making wasn't the right one, the pace I was going was not efficient enough, nor did I measure up to anyone's amount of success. The main thing I got out of the aforementioned, is stop beating myself up and comparing myself to others. Because I only see their highlight real and even that is most like being played out in my head. Hang in there Jennifer you are a one of a kind gem of a person!

[@vixen594]

I had been living (more like surviving) more than 10 years in darkness. Last week finaly got my diagnoses as bipolar. Your videos make so much sense to me. I have found out these points on my own that they do help me. Problem is I have lost my social skills in these years and now I don't even know how to go back.

[@smiley9872]

Give yourself time Sweetie! It will be okay!

[@difthong]

Dr. Marks thank you so much for these videos. You are saving lives. I have struggled for years to manage my bipolar, but thankfully I got on Seroquel and followed the advice in this video and the bipolar packet. Today marks two years with no hospitalizations. I know what to do to help myself and I’m starting to believe my bipolar won’t be the thing that takes me out one day. I still have struggles and challenges but I’m armed to actually fight this thing and manage my life. I’m so thankful to God for grace and I hope you remain encouraged to keep up the life saving work you are doing.

[@TKO-qj5zx]

I’m bipolar 1, mixed. I have a real hard time figuring out if I’m manic or depressed. It’s both at the same time.

[@brigetteadame8291]

same but im type 2

[@jayjayndebele3686]

I get psychotic when i listen to music

[@lynncarnegievogl8220]

Sounds like you are having mixed episodes, which are really dangerous. You are experiencing mania and depression at the same time.

[@staciemae]

I notice when I'm in mania by my heart rate and my sleeping patterns

[@dulcepasteque7159]

@@brigetteadame8291 how do you know which type you are? I’ve only been diagnosed with bipolar disorder but was never mentioned a number

[@kurapikakurta3863]

I was just recently diagnosed with Bipolar II Disorder and OMG I didn't know why I feel so terrible whenever my routine is disrupted for whatever reason. Watching this video has been so incredibly eye opening to me. I just now realized the stark difference in me when I have a fixed routine vs a very freestyle one. I think my episodes are far more manageable/less disruptive when I have a routine set in place. I'll definitely download the packet. Thank you so much for this video, Dr. Marks 🤗

[@albertoviale7259]

I identify as Bipolar 2 , though, my psychiatrist, diagnosed me as Depressive and GAD, I’ve been in spending sprees, as a way to forget my job stress, I know I’ m clever and know more about my job than others(I’m a pharma rep that works with antidepressants!, ) but there’ s a sort of cyclic mood, there are periods where I’m anxious and depressed, there are others where I’m confident and defiant , and work from 8am to 8pm nonstop. I think I should change my doctor !Thanks for your vid. Good job.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Alberto. What you describe sounds awfully suspicious for hypomania... 🙂 Thanks for watching. I do have a bipolar disorder playlist goo.gl/1hKamL

[@DinuMistry-m2c]

Dear Dr Tracey Marks, my heartfelt thanks for the guidance you give for managing mental illness on KZbin. I am 63 years of age and have been struggling with cycles of depression & mania. My loving children insisted that I seek psychiatric help immediately as I was getting more entrenched with the bouts of highs & lows. My psychiatrist diagnosed my condition to be bipolar 2 and prescribed Sertraline and Quetiapine. It took me another year of suffering severe mania and deep depression before I agreed to start taking the meds. I began to enjoy 8 to 10 hours sleep during mania and also depression. I also received 7 sessions of CBT via video call with a psychotherapist, which helped me to keep a mood diary and note triggers leading to mania and low moods. Your broadcasts a clear and concise which I find very useful in understanding Bipolar 2 and help me to work on myself more effectively. Do continue with your valuable work on KZbin. Love and best wishes, Dinu❤😊

[@Fliiiiiick]

I like having my planned activities! I usually sleep 12-15 hours a day and stay in bed under the covers even longer but I know I always need to feed my fish at a certain time and then I always try to do one extra thing (library, a walk to a coffee shop, etc) especially when my fiancé gets home from work and I can do them with a partner

[@X11CHASE]

How do you support yourself financially..?

[@erinpilla]

This is why I am going to retire from my industry. I've been going through cycles every year, multiple times a year. In fact just this year alone I've had 6 cycles! I finally had an honest talk to myself and admitted that I have to prioritize my health and not just replenish it. And yes sleep is key. Just miss an hour and you'll be like Kelly Killoren Bensimon in Scary Island from RHONY

[@kankan3625]

Recently diagnosed with bp2. This was so eye opening for me I can't wait to put all of this in to practice. Thank you ‼️

[@ToastyCinnamonRoll]

Thank you so much for these videos. I was diagnosed with Bipolar 2 disorder as a teenager and have been trying to go about it without medications. Medication would trigger my hypomanic episodes and make me extremely aggressive towards those I really cared about. I have recently become an adult and have been trying to learn more about my disorder and how to manage it. My parents weren't able to afford therapy when I was younger and this has been huge for me. Thank you so much!

[@jr.8450]

i have recently been diagnosed and finding your channel has helped me so much in accepting that i can live with and manage bipolar rather than be this crazy, unpredictable person i am used to being. not only are you very easy to listen to, the specifics of your videos are far more helpful than others i have come across (signs mania is coming, mood journaling, etc). thanks for making all this content available :)

[@MINDSPARK-u6e]

_Recent research has found a correlation between low vitamin D levels and neuropsychiatric illness. Specifically, it has been noted that vitamin D deficiency has been found to be associated with bipolar depression._ _Vitamin B1, vitamin B 5 vitamin B6, vitamin B9 vitamin B12 in conjunction with vitamin D, if taking these vitamins three times a week for two to sometimes 2 1/2 months. Can you cure your bipolar disorder_ _Almost 100% of the worlds mental and physical sicknesses that happens internally are caused from vitamin deficiencies_

[@kevinkristian1359]

I live in a country where mental disorder are still widely considered as something taboo. People are ashamed to talk about their struggles and they have minimum knowledge of it. Acknowledging your mental issue here you will get the label of an attention seeker and even labeled as crazy. i’m currently self treating myself. as I wasn’t able to get prescription or proper professional help, this video has been a great help. Thank you, thank you for this. Please keep doing what you do because i believe there are more people like me who depend on this type of content. Much love 💖

[@ephemera...]

This has been so full of helpful information. I’m finding I learn so much on KZbin. You are very clear and don’t talk too quickly so I can take it all in. Thank you.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching Kimberley.

[@chriswells485]

Dr. Tracey Marks playlist would have to be the most constructive, concise and well articulated information I've found anywhere online. This has significantly helped myself and family understand my mother's state - which has been undiagnosed and untreated for 50 odd years. Dr. Tracey Marks - i sincerely want to thank you for this channel and your work on this topic.

[@mariamatmos4506]

I have been diagnosed with bipolar one for 17 years now. I developed most of these tools with time to be able to function as well as possible, and I wish someone would have explained them like this, so I didn’t have to find them myself by going through so many bad times. But one thing is sure: I can guarantee that they do work wonders.

[@Nancy-ow9wy]

Do you take meds? What are the tips you might want to share if you don't mind

[@sammylhpate9382]

BP 1 mixed, PTSD,GAD chronic,ADHD It's so hard. Im medication resistant, Im off my meds 1 year now, again. I have so much instability overall & I am seriously considering the psylocybin study. I dont know how I've made it 48 yrs. Thankyou for your videos I learn something Everytime I watch you.

[@keeferlynds9667]

So as a first responder living with bipolar I, I really do find some variety of dark therapy really helps to ground my mood. When I pull a string of night shifts, I feel like I’m able to function a much higher level of calm. I run the vast majority of active time in the dark, and end my days with the cozy morning sun. It’s a little backwards, but I do find it really helps my day to day when I’m working nights versus days.

[@leighheyward5814]

Just want to say thank you for all of your videos. I am a psychotherapist and use your videos to educate clients, teach students and fine tune my own skills. The videos are clear, portray psychiatry and psychotherapy as normal and approachable. Thank You!

[@nonsuch]

When you are Bipolar 2, you yearn for mania. I dare not prevent it.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

I've heard that a lot. It can be a very focused, productive time for some people.

[@xxSSexyveganxx]

Rob, be careful about that though. Both Mania and Depression are brain damaging. The symptoms that affect your focus, memory, etc.? They don't completely go away, and they accumulate.

[@watcherwlc53]

wouldn't that be more the hypomania (as in bipolar ii) rather than the full mania?

[@watcherwlc53]

@LMC wouldn't that be more the hypomania (as in bipolar ii) rather than the full mania?

[@alicia9645]

Rob Cosentino To me, mania is the worst parts. I lose control and I do things without thinking in a way that harms me and I put myself in situations I can’t handle.

[@suesjoy]

I was just diagnosed with bipolar. The doctor didn’t say if it was 1 or 2. I have been on Effexor for 5 years, and he said that it’s actually making my mania worse. He prescribed Latuda. I am so afraid of taking more meds, but now I understand that they are necessary. I went through hell trying to taper off Ativan, that’s why I always refused mood stabilizers. I appreciate your videos so much. Thank you! I will download your worksheets. ❤

[@emilywedepohl4905]

All of your videos are so wonderful, and this one is one of the BEST

[@liverofADPIE]

Dr M: I am not bipolar, but your videos are so comforting. “You can do this.”

[@sidra1401]

I believe my mania has started and tbh I like this phase, they are the best. All I am afraid of is of depressive episodes which are twice a year for me that lasts for about 3-4 months so all I'm trying is to keep myself at bay from those mentioned triggers. It's so hard living with bipolar as you're in constant state of fear that this shall too pass and you will fall into the rabbit hole again.

[@jon-doe1987]

Thank you. I've been feeling overwhelmed and on the verge of just deleting. Thank God for you uploading this. The emotional rollercoaster is very tiresome.

[@TheBooster96]

Dr. Marks: sleep deprivation is really what can lead to those manic episodes Me watching this at 2am: ...

[@miketv151]

For real 😂

[@Oscar-jm1zt]

yeah and at x2 playback speed

[@MoriahDreams123]

oop

[@GB-vk4ni]

Same like shit

[@youbettaglowgurl1500]

Me at 1am lol

[@roxcbrown8821]

I have just learned what bipolar disorder really is. I think I am on definitely on the spectrum. Just listening to your videos has really given a sense of peace, some answers and relief. I don't have health insurance but I don't think it's type 1. I have definitly felt like there has been something "different" about me for a long time and been managing it on my own. It's nice to find some more tools. Thank you so much for your videos and time.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Sarah! 🤗 So glad to help.

[@MINDSPARK-u6e]

_Recent research has found a correlation between low vitamin D levels and neuropsychiatric illness. Specifically, it has been noted that vitamin D deficiency has been found to be associated with bipolar depression._ _Vitamin B1, vitamin B 5 vitamin B6, vitamin B9 vitamin B12 in conjunction with vitamin D, if taking these vitamins three times a week for two to sometimes 2 1/2 months. Can you cure your bipolar disorder_ _Almost 100% of the worlds mental and physical sicknesses that happens internally are caused from vitamin deficiencies_

[@lynnroney1234]

I just discovered this channel. I have Bipolar II Disorder and everything that is a trigger was a resounding yes. Routine. I just had rotator cuff surgery and the resulting physio etc is going to be going on forever. Up to a year. My routine has been completely blown up. I’m all over the place right now.

[@elliehernandez9069]

I’m starting to realize I’m bi polar as I have manic episodes that I usually take out on loved ones and then my depression hits for doing things I didn’t mean and it’s taking a toll on me. Thank you for the tips

[@anuenuesloth1457]

I’m here to validate your feelings, emotions and experiences. I too recently got diagnosed as bipolar ii. Unfortunately I’m so good at pretending to be fine that people are surprised at when I lash out or shut down, not why. I struggle with explaining things concisely because my thoughts are racing so quickly I can’t stop myself mindfully unless it’s concise, quick, and preferably some sort of memory tool to repeat in my mind until I distract myself enough to focus on the things I actually want. It’s mentally exhausting, and physically represented. But my spirals have been reinforced by cycles of doctors only seeking to understand my symptoms as they present - as opposed to what they stem from and how I’ve trained myself to cope. I am emotionally triggered by things and behaviors I know to be irrational. But I internalize my compulsive behavior and any sort of criticism because my brain has been trained to overexplain and interrupt, as opposed to actively sit in silence and listen to others or just myself. Humans are complex, we need simplicity in all things to free ourselves up for true mindfulness. I hope you found help and are feeling good about the small wins! 🥰

[@AtortAerials]

I think I do this too even with my cat trapped in my house with me. Spaz on him and sometimes just not amazing and feel horrible because I love the little guy SO much. It sucks!

[@moayadad]

How are you now

[@davidphillipson9569]

My own two cents, for what it is worth: I think you are a beautiful person, inside and out. There is an exceptional degree of emotional coherence and harmony between your internal psychic states and external non-verbal expressions. That is very helpful to me in absorbing what you are trying to say - which is conceptually very clear. And I am NOT saying this in one of my manic states which are only generated by hormonal modulating drugs like levothyroxine or other natural supplements that increase or decrease estrogen or testosterone.

[@saramakaylanaidoo6752]

Hi! Love your videos! Please do a video on how bipolar disorder affects relationships and how to manage it ❤

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Sarah. Thank you. I've had up the requests for this kind of video, I'll have to give it some thought. It's not that easy to do because there's not one answer that fits everyone's situation. There's a lot of dynamics that affect how the interactions play out in how you should handle things.

[@xfesto5734]

Sara Makayla Naidoo seriously running mine into the ground 😩

[@xfesto5734]

Dr. Tracey Marks well some general tips?

[@Haverwout]

Hi D, any relationships in particular?

[@MINDSPARK-u6e]

_Recent research has found a correlation between low vitamin D levels and neuropsychiatric illness. Specifically, it has been noted that vitamin D deficiency has been found to be associated with bipolar depression._ _Vitamin B1, vitamin B 5 vitamin B6, vitamin B9 vitamin B12 in conjunction with vitamin D, if taking these vitamins three times a week for two to sometimes 2 1/2 months. Can you cure your bipolar disorder_ _Almost 100% of the worlds mental and physical sicknesses that happens internally are caused from vitamin deficiencies_

[@rhelmseeker]

I love your videos. I have shared them with my group where I support mental illness. I have bipolar/ borderline personality with dis association. Not a good time. Therapy is key. I love how you express the tips and tricks. Thank you

[@christophervonderschmidt6438]

Thank you. My girlfriend has bipolar 1 and Im working on understanding what that means and how I can help. This video was very helpful to me

[@thelaughingeyes6686]

I have a great doctor/therapist who implements many of the same things you talk about, but your videos give me so much comfort and optimism. Right now I’ve been in a mixed state, and even though new meds and therapy are really helping, watching your videos is kinda like the cherry on top. Thank you for your work.

[@samanthahardy9903]

I find that what really screws up my routine is when the clocks go forward and backwards every year for daylight saving time.

[@mandyritchie7115]

Samantha, hello, how are you given your post was five months ago. I hear and empathise with you, f..ks me up every year, I only gained insight to this trigger recently. Have you explored protective factors? I would be interested in hearing them if your happy to share. It may be twice a year but my mania and psychosis are deliberating. Daylight savings due here soon. May try melatonin. I also recall a doctor suggesting a quick lap around the house when I first wake up in the morning to reset cycadian rythem when I was severely depressed. May give that a whirl. My screens TV I try to have off by 9pm I have a good sleep hygiene. Know you post has being very helpful. Prompted me to reply to you and in doing so I have a focused relapse prevention plan to discuss with my psychiatrist. Warm regards Mandy

[@mandyritchie7115]

To the 8 likes and others with this trigger, Any relapse/protection strategies you use that your willing to share. All the best. Sincerely Mandy

[@samanthahardy9903]

@@mandyritchie7115 Hi Mandy, I have different routines depending on my mood. So I have 1 routine for when I'm hypo manic and a routine for when I'm depressed. I didn't have much help at all with preventing lapses or how to manage bipolar. I was simple diagnosed given medication and that was it. A lot of things I've had to figure out on my own as to what works and what doesn't. However, what works for me may not work for others with bipolar disorder as it affects everyone differently. No two people are exactly the same. I think the main strategy is to "know yourself". I work and the employer knows I have Bipolar Disorder so they know there are some jobs I am not able to do but other jobs I can do really well. I work in a supermarket, usually in the cafe, but sometimes I will work on the shop floor putting items back on the shelves which customers have ditched at the checkouts. I tidy the shelves at the same time which then makes it easier for other staff when they have a "store tidy" because most of it has already been done. The girls in the cafe know when I'm manic because I end up whizzing around doing things so quickly that all they see is a blur and a gust of wind as I rush pat them. When the store has changed my rota at the last minute then that's when things get awkward. If I usually am rostered to work from 2pm to 7pm and they change it suddenly to 11am to 4pm I tell them to expect me to be late and to try to keep my rota the same every week as I need to take my meds at the same time every day. I don't cope well will sudden changes so it's good if they can let me know a few weeks ahead. When I'm depressed I mainly work in the kitchen doing kitchen porter work such as food prep, washing up, stock rotation and cleaning. I've discovered I much prefer being a kitchen porter because then I don't have to deal with rude customers too much either. Some people with Bipolar disorder find it hard to get and keep a job due to extreme anxiety and becoming very defensive by blurting out what they really think of a rude customer. I tend to imagine in my head them choking on the food they order and it makes me smile. I know it's a weird way of coping with it but it stops me from getting angry and upset when I get blamed for some items on the menu not being available or when they scream at me, "Why can't I have a double shot expresso? I want one now?" Trying to explain to them calmly that we don't have barrista type coffee machines goes over the heads of these self entitled Karen's and it makes me laugh as they turn a beetroot red with anger when I tell them it's also self service. There are a few Bipolar Groups on Facebook you might find helpful. Sorry this post is a bit long but hopefully it's given you a laugh along the way. Laughter is important as well as meds.

[@Fahimreasons]

She is awsome , unique .most of the approach and no boring long lectures . To the point. So comforting abd reassuring and easy to adopt

[@tracielynnnave4481]

I love your videos. They’ve given me so much insight to my bipolar disorder. Thank you for shedding light on this 💜

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome. I have a bipolar Playlist where I group all of my bipolar videos. As I make more videos I'll.add them. KZbin lets you save playlists to make it easy to reference them kzbin.info/aero/PLazcP3-djRZ0IoYFWgkl0_tFtBVqA3bu-

[@karmaline]

Best advice I ever heard from a dr relating to bipolar advice

[@janedoe7251]

Hi. Thanks for the video. I've downloaded the package but decided to use the memo app on my phone for the daily log. You mentioned oversleeping as a trigger of depression. Dehydration is another trigger. After having alcohol, soda and frankfurters for 4 days, my depression symptoms came back yesterday. After realizing the connection and rehydrating, they're gone. It turns out dehydration slows down the serotonin production. Ashley

[@pierinaventura2215]

WOW!!! This is the way how it should be, explaining you what you should do. No psycologies letting you to figure out (if you even get to figure it out) what to do on your own.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks Pierina. I try to make most of my videos have some helpful message behind it other than just talking about a disorder. sometimes that’s not always the case if I’m answering someone’s question.

[@robinhood6948]

Thank you for this video! Very helpful :) I've tried this the last few days and I feel an improvement already.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Awesome!!

[@1c3Breaker]

The dark therapy works for me. Guess my work related stress triggered my latest manic episode and i was so depressed

[@thomasandersen1784]

The best medicin for me is to get my 9 hours of sleep, no matter what state i'm in. The only problem with this, can be that i sometimes feel i'm lacking behind, in terms of the things i wanna do on a regular basis. I'm more relaxed with this, when i am a bit down/low in energy, but when i have a good period, it sometimes become something that can tricker stress. But my 9 hours, is where i function best, so the sleep part i'm in on. Thx for helping me and others with these vd's. Cheers from Denmark (i'm 51).

[@katieo2k]

Thanks Dr., good tips. Why do you think many Bipolar people can be highly intelligent and talented, yet we get dismissed by the general public as “crazy”?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Katie O! Bipolar disorder has nothing to do with intelligence. It's an emotional regulation problem. But I think if someone is in the throes of an episode and doing something that affects others negatively (like angry mood swings, emptying out bank account, not showing up for work etc.), the people affected lash out by calling the person crazy. Also Bipolar is an illness. When people just see the erratic behavior, they think you can control it and call it "crazy" because they don't understand it.

[@terrystrayer9882]

Dr. Tracey Marks true dr. marks I think you're probably absolutely right unfortunately in our society people don't even use words correctly the word crazy just indicates out of the ordinary not expected etcetera etcetera doesn't indicate right or wrong we're in such a judgemental situation we can't deal with this sort of thing

[@terrystrayer9882]

Dr. Tracey Marks dr. Marx I wish you would explain this to people because it doesn't have anything to do with our intelligence it is just an emotional Disorder so please quit calling it a mental health disorder it's got nothing to do with my mental health my brain is perfectly fine as a matter fact it runs it about five times the speed of everybody else's if they can't keep up that's not my problem that's their problem

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Maybe i'll find a way to weave that into another video.

[@katieo2k]

Maybe my question wasn’t clear- I said CAN BE highly intelligent and talented. I understand they are not related. My point is there are many bright talented people like Russel Brand, Mariah Carey, Kanye West, late famous people like James Joyce and Jimmy Hendrix who are thought to have had Bipolar disorder, yet in general, people in our society dismiss you as crazy or say ignorant things about people with BOD. Myself I am a professional and cannot tell people of my BPD because the stigma would damage my career even though I am very good at my job.

[@poulkjartanfestirstein454]

I found the "6 Strategies" very helpful. They are concise, "hands on", and show a path to a better life. When your life is in chaos it is difficult to absorb/accept advice. It is near impossible if there is too much complexity - however well meaning and evidence based. This video, strikes a good balance between the two. Thank you, TM.

[@toasted_.coconut]

Describes me accurately. I either under sleep or over sleep to the extreme. Also regularly drink hard liquor can trigger mania. A beer or two doesnt. Ive looked into light therapy.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

It's good to know your triggers. At least you can handle a little beer. Light therapy can be great for depression, be careful though because it can trigger mania in some people.

[@anuenuesloth1457]

My coping mechanism that I like best is consuming marijuana. Unfortunately, it’s far easier for me to buy from a dealer, when I know I don’t know the exact compound breakdown. But if I do seek a medical marijuana dispensary, it gives me so much anxiety to buy it legally because I know getting caught with it, and especially transporting it, is still heavily criminalized. So I’ve learned to cope in my daily live by abusing weed. And even my therapist asked me about medical, but I have no access that doesn’t scare me, even though long term cooking my own edibles and buying them specifically to help with symptoms of my mood swings, I still can’t vocalize and talk about it socially like I wish I could. Because both my disorder, my coping mechanisms, and my compulsions result in risky behavior that’s uncontrollable, and difficult to accurately pinpoint because I won’t give up my weed habit unless something else helps more… 😜 alcohol for me is a physical trigger that I hate the feeling of. I would like to go out with friends and smoke/consume weed in whatever fashion and situation I want. Because if I have to end up DD’ing for my friends who struggle with alcoholism, but that behavior is only because I’m nice and I can’t drink. Then I compulsively use weed to cope, but the stigma is not the same and the behavior is not socially acceptable except in “habitually stoner” stereotypes that I shirk every day. Thanks for listening to my ranting.

[@unknowntosociety01]

Woah thats too close to home… drank hard liquor and slept little and now im giddy as fuck and wilding

[@fancykitty7245]

I think I am bipolar 1. Have manic and depression moods. My sleep is terrible!! Just found out this diagnose after 9 years with same PA. The Dr wanted to see me Friday when I just showed up in the office. I KNEW something wasn't right and just went to my dr for help. He is taken over my care for awhile.

[@barbosahMX]

i've been trying to keep up with life being depressed most of it. So it is very difficult when I hit a crisis, because is very hard for me to feel better.

[@RuthGriffen]

Dear Dr. Tracey, I have been studying psychology and the disorders that can create chaos in someone's life and this video compelled me not only to comment on it but to subscribe to your channel as well.

[@gohardgibson]

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, but we wasn't able to get counseling to try to work on getting better and tracking my progress. I am going to counseling tomorrow for the first time and I am trying to get a handle on what my role is other than "stereotypical angry black guy". I saw another video on bpd and I see more of my issues there, but apparently they can exist at the sometime. I don't get manic, but I have been bummed out since I was a kid at an uppity private school. Anyway, thanks for sharing!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Great first step in recognizing that you have a role, then being open to seeing and accepting what it is. I plan to do a video on BPD versus bipolar. They can look similar but are very different. And you can get mood instability with BPD that It is not related to bipolar. I record in batches so that one is currently in the works. Stay tuned.

[@ayodeler39]

# GoHardGibson hi, congratulations on starting counselling. Reading your comment about what happened at your ‘uppity private school’ It rang a cord with me regarding the private schooling which I organised for my son. now a grown man but I am concerned about how his experiences in Private school has left its mark and affected my relationship with him. When you said bummed out since you were a kid what did it involve?

[@Danster547]

# GoHardGibson how can you be bipolar without mania? How are you coping now a year after your comment?

[@ritajoshi5614]

Very practical just what l needed to hear. I suffer with bipolar and am learning more about this illness on you tube than l did reading books on manic depression (bipolar disorder).

[@Larry3D]

Thanks for the detailed breakdown of the disease. I have bipolar disorder and I leave all therapy to the doctors. I've had good advice so far. Nevertheless, I would like to learn more about it and your KZbin channel helps me with that. For example, a manic phase can help cope with addiction and quit. This is how I was able to quit heroin and alcohol. I've been sober for over 10 years now. Drugs hardly work in mania. However, support is needed for depression. I guess I'll have to take my medication for the rest of my life. Please keep making great videos like this.

[@fixelish]

Thank you SO much for these videos. I have been diagnosed with BPD by some psychiatrists, other psychiatrists have said I have Bipolar instead, so as you can imagine this has been really confusing for me. I have been watching all your videos on Bipolar and BPD and I have to say I understand both so much more clearly now, so thank you so much.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Suzanne. I'm so glad this is helping. I'll continue to develop the bipolar playlist over time. Stay tuned. 🙂

[@trishmuhu7717]

my sister has bipolar 2, and she lives with me, this is really helpful

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks Trish! I'm glad.

[@1c3Breaker]

Lucky sister

[@leslieleslie5849]

Thank my daughter was just diagnosed with bipolar, your channel has been a gift.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Im sooo glad it's helpful for you. That's what's it's here for.

[@kristenmjensen]

So glad I found you. You are very educated and i appreciate learning more from you. I was wondering if you have any personal experiences with these illnesses, such as bipolar disorder?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Hi Kristen. All of my experience with bipolar disorder has been from my work as a psychiatrist. I've had people close to me with depression though. I think seeing it from a personal perspective gave me a more rounded view of the disorder and how it affects all the people involved.

[@jaredmello]

Kristen, if you want to hear someone’s first hand experience with bipolar 2, check out my channel. I also have an anxiety disorder.

[@froontown]

Hi, I have bipolar 1 mixed, I'm a new subscriber, and I'm also an MSW student. I recently have been working on things that involve learning I have PTSD from an episode. There isn't anyone who gets how things were except for service members, veterans, and families. That fact is weird, because I am not a service member or vet. I am reaching out to my supports, and I am being transparent in a balanced way with my family and social connections, but I am really bewildered at how profound sharing my trauma has been. Like this video present, I maintain a very maintained, not strict, schedule day-to-day, eat, and most of all, sleep. Those are indeed the best anchor points. Unfortunately, all of them have lost ground, and I am terrified. My support team knows I'm scared, my family knows I'm scared, but I want to know how PTSD can tie into bipolar, especially episodes that involve psychosis and more. I appreciate your videos and the work this must take. Thank you!

[@lizrodriguez-fv3er]

So beautiful to see a good passionate doc as a doctor myself 😊

[@laciyoungs8783]

I have a hard time keeping any schedule over a day. It’s so frustrating. This is a trigger.

[@marbrer]

I just got diagnosed with bipolar type 2 with BPD and I also have ADHD My psychologist prescribed to me Wellbutrin and I’ve implemented a routine since October, I’m going to bed around 9pm and take melatonin to make sure I sleep. I also try to move everyday like yoga or going on a walk! To be honest it’s the first time I haven’t experienced depression during our cold canadian winter. Im really stable and feel truly at peace for the first time! Not depressed nor maniac. Although I’m scared for when the pandemic ends and my routine gets disrupted.. ill enjoy this stability while it lasts

[@rickredmond9847]

Another very helpful, highly informative and practical video. Thank you!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're welcome Rick!

[@rickredmond9847]

@@DrTraceyMarks I was recently diagnosed with Bipolar 1 (at age 55) as well as concurrent ADHD and PTSD (I'm a Veteran). In addition to lithium carbonate (which is working), my Psychologist has me engaged in cognitive behavior therapy/cognitive processing therapy and we are also alternating with cognitive remediation therapy. We are exploring stimulants for the cognitive deficits. All very new, admittedly scary, hoping for the best. Thanks again for your very resourceful videos!

[@michalchapmanramsey450]

Dr. Marks, I realize that this video is years old but the information and the kit are on time for me. Thank you.

[@dchrysostom]

Love this video. I have Bi polar 2 Helpful Thank you so much Dr For all you do. You are so awesome/ beautiful and very respectful. You are a good person. We need your videos..

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks so much D Chry.

[@yazminvalerio5398]

I will really need a online consultation, I’m always feeling withdrawn from people feel down , I’ve had major trauma in the past now I’m able to understand they Y I feel this way ! Thank you for this video

[@mprplaysguitar]

Just found your channel, thank you so much for making these videos.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're so welcome. I'm glad you found my channel.

[@Maggie-gn7rm]

Very helpful tips to help us understand and support those we love. Thank you!

[@Multisportamateur]

Thank you doctor! I feel like you’re reading my mind about my dad’s undiagnosed bipolar. His mania starts around 12-2am and ends around 5-7am (depending if he takes 1mg of lorazepam). Thank you for educating me about this topic.

[@tessaturnertunes]

I just filled mine out. Thank you for this resource. I’m excited to share the work I’ve done with my therapist!

[@IsaoSoichiro]

My psychiatrist recently said I may be bipolar, so I've been watching your videos a lot. They're very informative, and I appreciate them so much. Rambling now: As terrible as it sounds, I'm kinda hoping I am or have some sort of disorder because it'd make me blame myself less for how badly I feel. I experienced trauma as a child, and my Psychologist said there's not going to be a switch where I immediately feel better and stop hating myself. So maybe that's exasperated my bipolar if I have it? Idk. I rarely get manic and it lasts at most a day, at least 1 hour. Mental health is complicated and fascinating lol.

[@anuenuesloth1457]

Idk if it’ll make you feel “better”, but I can validate the cycles of self blame and internalization of a very complex disorder to understand and learn objectively - especially if you’re also naturally inquisitive and like to do your own research by finding people that “get” you and can get to the point of actually helping you.

[@katbaz16]

Dr. Marks, you truly are one of youtube’s greatest jewels ❤ thank you for your videos.

[@erunstoppable1174]

Thank you so much Tracey for all your videos, they really help me to understand how to help myself! You’re truly a blessing to the mental health community!!! 👏

[@vivianecandeas6041]

Hello doctor Tracey, My name is Viviane and I'm from Brazil. I have a 23-year-old son, currently admitted to a drug addict clinic, but he only smokes marijuana. Unfortunately he has bipolar disorder, but this was discovered in 2018. My son's story is longer because he had epilepsy at 4 years of age until he was 13 years old and although he has cured himself of epilepsy, he today suffers severe consequences for bipolarity, but he does not accept His condition and everything gets harder. I live in California. I've seen your video and am subscribed to your channel. Your videos have helped me understand how to take care of my son.

[@mrzmorphine]

I LOVE this! Thank you Dr. Tracey!!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You're so welcome Mizz Morphine!

[@annewick3287]

You are very knowledgeable...Ive had bipolar 1 for 25 years. I really avoid electronics all together towards bedtime as it tends to keep me awake. Triggers yep 👍 you have to know those but also I find having a creative outlet to express emotions the most helpful. I'm a music therapist so I do best utilizing that as a coping strategy. I FINALLY got the right combination of mediations and hormones and now I'm doing very very well as mine was caused by head injury which is even more complex. My new psychiatrist is amazing and I stopped being used as a medicine 💊 guinea pig as the wrong medications caused rare involuntary movements of the body and we're so dangerous to me. I called it quits with my previous psychiatrist but it was the best decision I could have made for my mental health

[@bubblesxo]

what medication are you on now??

[@calebrowland9205]

My mental illness is causing me physical illness...I'm going to end up dying from physical illness caused by years of mental illness. I've not had the best dr's...state run mental health clinic. Herded through and just given medications. Maybe I'm being paranoid. I have hypertension and heart palpitations which I take medications for. Also my liver enzymes are highly elevated. Weight fluctuations for the last 17 years. Prediabetic. Medication caused maybe? Liver enzymes have been high for a decade and just got a primary care physician that actually cares. I was diagnosed bipolar 2 and GAD at 18. I'm 35. I feel there's no hope. 17 years of this and I've had no improvement. The opposite actually. I dunno what to do. I feel hopeless. I hope I do go soon. I'm rambling. I apologize. Thank you for your videos. I hope someone watches these earlier than when I found them and can get into see someone who cares...

[@IloveNewyork1]

Things will get better hold on

[@lynseytodd5530]

You're not alone in how you feel, like the other person who responded said hold on and try not to give up. You deserve to feel better and there are people out there who do care. All the best, take care and hope you get the help you need.

[@jesilynne]

Best channel on KZbin! Definitely the most helpful. Thank you, Dr. Tracey Marks!

[@lifeisbeautiful7047]

Why would I avoid triggering the maniac episode ? .. I mean why would I prevent myself from feeling high ? ... is it always followed by a Depressive episode ?

[@kenyafleming9584]

I would like to KEEP my Maniac Episodes

[@Amandax-tx6yb]

With bp1 you dont want mania trust me. I'm manic 80% of the time. You wont make good choices being manic. Its always fun in the beginning. Life is great. People love you. Its the choices you make and also it can be a manic mixed episode..happy and depressed or manic depressed and angry at the same time. Trust me its not fun.