Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) often conjures extreme images — either as a medieval torture method or a miraculous cure. But what’s the reality? Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive deep into the facts, debunking myths and exploring the nuances of ECT as a treatment for bipolar disorder.

In this episode, they discuss the effectiveness of ECT, why it’s not a first-line treatment, and the barriers patients face, from logistical challenges to fears about memory loss. With candid insights and personal reflections, they tackle tough questions: Is ECT worth it? What are the real risks? How does it compare to medication? Whether you're curious, skeptical, or considering ECT for yourself or a loved one, this episode offers a grounded perspective on a complex, life-changing therapy. Don’t miss this enlightening and thought-provoking discussion.  

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe: Controversy aside, I don't understand how zapping somebody's brain makes them better. It just doesn't make any sense. Are electrical currents magic? Do they have some sort of medicinal capabilities?

Dr. Nicole: No, [Laughter]. Well, no. Gabe, electro-currents are not magical. But the seizure that they induce is what can be valuable to the person with the disorder.

Gabe: So the electrical shock stimulates the seizure. And the…

Dr. Nicole: Yes.

Gabe: Seizure is where the treatment comes in

Dr. Nicole: The seizure is the treatment. The shock is just how we get there.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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Does "bipolar rage" exist, or is it a misunderstood concept? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, tackle bipolar rage and discuss why it’s not a clinical symptom of bipolar disorder.

They explore the differences between anger, agitation, and rage, offering insights for those with bipolar disorder and their loved ones. Learn why violent outbursts can't always be attributed to bipolar disorder, and why personal accountability matters.

This episode also empowers loved ones to prioritize their safety and set boundaries if they feel threatened, whether the behavior stems from bipolar disorder or something else. With practical advice, myth-busting facts, and a touch of tough love, this conversation offers clarity and actionable steps for managing tough emotions. Hit play to uncover the truth and start making meaningful changes today!

“The best time to have a fire drill is when there is no fire. Don’t try to have a fire drill after the house is on fire. So many people try to work out how to prevent rage issues or arguments in the middle of arguments. Now is the time to do it. Not during, but before it happens.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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ADHD and bipolar disorder often share symptoms, but are they truly co-occurring conditions or just two sides of the same coin? Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington as they tackle one of the most perplexing topics in mental health. They dive into how these diagnoses overlap, how doctors differentiate between them, and why ADHD might sometimes be over diagnosed.

Discover the challenges of treating ADHD in someone with bipolar disorder and why the right diagnosis matters for effective treatment. With engaging analogies and personal insights, this episode explores the fine line between labeling symptoms and focusing on wellness. If you or a loved one are navigating ADHD, bipolar disorder, or both, this is a must-listen conversation.

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe: Hey, you're saying that I have bipolar disorder, but couldn't this just be ADHD or ADHD symptoms? You're saying that I have mania, but isn't that just hyperactivity? You're saying that I'm having racing thoughts, but isn't that just lack of ability to focus?

Dr. Nicole: Yeah, yeah.

Gabe: And they’re like, well, wait a minute. I just have ADHD. What’s this bipolar stuff that’s coming up?

Dr. Nicole: It is possible that those symptoms that look like ADHD could be untreated mood symptoms.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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Have you ever heard someone say they miss the “old you” — the life of the party, the one who could stay out all night and keep everyone entertained? For people with bipolar disorder, those “good old days” were often fueled by mania, bringing hidden chaos, risk, and pain. In this candid episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into why some friends and family romanticize manic episodes, ignoring the struggles beneath the surface.

They unpack the emotional toll of hearing, “You used to be so much fun,” and explore how to set boundaries, educate others, and navigate feelings of nostalgia. Whether you're managing bipolar disorder or supporting someone, this episode offers invaluable insights into maintaining stability while addressing the pressures of the past. Tune in to uncover the truth behind the “good old days” and why the “new you” deserves to be celebrated.

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe: If somebody's like, I miss the good old days. I miss your mania. I miss how you used to be.

Dr. Nicole: Yes.

Gabe: You know, obviously I'm going to cut you off, you ignorant fool, is something you can say back.

Dr. Nicole: [Laughter] Not if you want them in your life. I mean, if you're ready to cut it off, say what you need to say and walk away, in very dramatic fashion. But if this is a relationship that you want to salvage, I think then you have to be willing to put up a little bit of vulnerability, as hard as that may be.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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Does your psychiatrist really understand what you're going through? Navigating conversations with your psychiatrist and other professionals helping you manage your mental health can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle the communication disconnect between patients and mental health professionals. Learn why vague terms like "nervous breakdown" can hinder your treatment and how to provide the specific details your doctor needs to help you effectively.

They discuss the importance of sharing family mental health history, breaking down symptoms, and offering clear examples — even if you don’t know clinical terms. Packed with practical advice, this conversation will empower you to self-advocate, build stronger doctor-patient relationships, and get the care you deserve. Whether you're living with bipolar disorder or another mental health condition, this episode is an essential guide to speaking the same language as your healthcare professionals. Tune in and take the first step toward a stronger partnership with your psychiatrist and clearer, more effective communication!

Cold Open Transcript: 

Gabe: Although I imagine from your vantage point, Dr. Nicole not annoying your psychiatrist is probably a pretty damn good reason. [Laughter]

Dr. Nicole: [Laughter] I mean, annoy is a strong word. I don't know if it annoys me.

Gabe: Fair.

Dr. Nicole: I don't know that I'm annoyed when people come in not knowing these things or not being able to communicate these things. It just lets me know that I have a lot of work to do, that I have to be the one to do that education that was missed somewhere along the way.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please see the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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Love can be exhilarating, but for people with bipolar disorder, it can sometimes blur the lines between infatuation and mania. In this candid episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the complexities of new romance through the lens of bipolar disorder.

How can you tell if it’s true love, fleeting infatuation, or a symptom of mania? From grandiose declarations to the red flags of unhealthy expectations, they discuss how bipolar symptoms can amplify the highs and lows of relationships. They also explore how age, life experiences, and emotional milestones shape how we approach love.

Whether you’re navigating your own relationships or supporting someone with bipolar disorder, this episode offers relatable insights and practical advice to help you find clarity.

“Grand love gestures are absolutely my jam. And I know the world is filled with people who love romance. So I don’t want anybody to hear that all types of grand gestures and falling in love and soulmates are bad. But, if you are all consumed by that grand gesture and you can’t figure out anything else but to do that right now, then it could be mania.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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Doomscrolling can be especially harmful for people with bipolar disorder, amplifying mood changes and fueling anxiety or depression. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the dark world of doomscrolling and why it’s particularly damaging for people living with bipolar disorder.

They explore why doomscrolling feels addictive and how it impacts your mental health. You'll learn actionable tips to curb this habit, including setting boundaries with technology, creating healthier routines, and finding alternative ways to stay informed. This conversation offers practical solutions tailored to life with bipolar disorder, helping you take back your time and mental well-being. Hit play to learn how to reclaim your time and happiness!

“We have in our hands a computer that's capable of having family photos, family videos. You know, aim it at your children, aim it at your dog, aim it at your cat. Aim it at your best friend. Have them sing you a little song. Whatever it takes. Just find something that replaces the doomscrolling. Because I really believe that people are listening to this episode because they know they're doing it, and they know it's not making them better, and they don't know why they're doing it and they don't know how to stop.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit our official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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Is hypomania something you can use to your advantage, or is that a dangerous game to try? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, take a deep dive into the nuances of hypomania, its diagnostic criteria, and the widespread belief that it can be harnessed for productivity.

They explore why some people may mistake elevated moods for hypomania, the risks of trying to "ride the lightning," and how support systems and self-awareness play crucial roles in managing this symptom. Whether you're seeking clarity on hypomania or practical advice for managing it, this episode offers thought-provoking insights and actionable takeaways.

"To point out that when we talk about managing hypomania, we first must make sure you are truly hypomanic. And I don't know anybody who is productive after four days of lack of sleep or four days of not being able to calm down, rest, think straight. But there's always this advice on how to harness hypomania and turn it into a $1 million business. Which also, not for nothing, sounds a little hypomanic to me." ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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What happens when someone with bipolar disorder relapses after years of stability? In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Nicole Washington interviews Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, about his recent mood episode and relapse. Together, they uncover the subtle warning signs Gabe overlooked, the crucial role loved ones—and even strangers—played in recognizing the episode, and the surprising strategies that helped him regain stability.

From grappling with medication changes to discovering the therapeutic power of a daily walk, Gabe shares raw insights about living with bipolar disorder. Whether you're managing your own mental health, supporting someone you love, or simply curious about the realities of navigating a mood disorder, this episode offers valuable lessons and a message of hope: Recovery is always possible, even after setbacks.

“The number one thing that I wish that people wouldn't have said to me is, oh, you'll get through this because you've always gotten through it before. No matter how many times you've been through this, this does not guarantee success. That is a stupid thing to say. All of the people who I was in their thoughts and prayers. It's like, I know that's a nice thing, but I could really use actual help. Actual effort, labor, time, love. And you're just like, hey, I'm thinking of you.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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Confused about what medically constitutes “bipolar tendencies” or “bipolar adjacent symptoms”? Do you want to understand more about the diagnosis of cyclothymia? You're not alone! In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, tackle the murky waters of “not quite bipolar, but kind of.”

They cover what cyclothymia is and how it differs from bipolar I and II. Dr. Nicole breaks down the DSM criteria, the importance of proper diagnosis, and the challenges of identifying subtle mood patterns. Gabe shares relatable analogies to clarify these complex conditions.

Whether you’re a patient, loved one, or just curious about mental health, this episode helps demystify the labels, clear up misconceptions, and highlight the path to better understanding and treatment. Tune in for an insightful conversation on bipolar disorder that might just answer your lingering questions.

“Because I understand that there's a world of difference between schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. When it comes to bipolar disorder and cyclothymia, it sounds like they're much, much closer. But I think it's still probably good advice that your mileage may vary, and you need to take everything that you hear with a grain of salt. Because it may or may not apply to you.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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