In this episode, Dr. Beth sits down with her friends Amanda (a business owner) and Stephanie (a therapist) to tackle a tough, real-world question: How do you talk about a diagnosis with someone who doesn’t want one—especially when daily weed, anger outbursts, or past substance use are in the mix? Through the story of a 30-something creative with possible bipolar disorder, they unpack self-medication (the classic “upper, downer, mood-stabilizer” pattern), why partners and employers draw hard lines (“it’s legal” ≠ “it’s okay at work”), and how shame keeps talented people from becoming their best selves.

You’ll hear practical, compassionate ways to:

Frame diagnosis as information, not identity

Explain the bipolar spectrum (including agitated/hypomanic presentations)

Explore roots vs. band-aids: trauma, lifestyle, and biology

Talk with spouses about the real costs of daily use and rage cycles

Use simple next steps (e.g., the MDQ screen, treatment options, boundaries)

Honest, stigma-cutting, and immediately useful—for therapists, leaders managing teams, partners who are worried, and anyone wondering whether a label might actually unlock a path forward.

Note: This conversation is educational and not medical advice. If you have concerns about mood or substance use, please consult a licensed professional.

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