Live Well Bipolar ™

In this solo episode, the host delves into their personal experience with depression and bipolar disorder. They discuss the variability of depression among individuals with bipolar disorder and share insights from their own life, including the onset of symptoms at age 14, a misdiagnosis of depression, and the challenges of managing mental health as an adult.

The host emphasizes the importance of support networks, self-awareness, and coping strategies such as journaling and therapy. They also detail the impact of physical illness on mental health and the significance of setting boundaries, particularly with social media.

The episode aims to provide hope, understanding, and a sense of community to those living with bipolar disorder.

A Bipolar Warrior's Journey: Major General Gregg F. Martin's Story

Gregg discusses his lifetime battle with bipolar disorder, sharing his journey from leading thousands of troops to the depths of depression. He talks about his diagnosis, his family's experiences, and his efforts to battle the stigma surrounding mental illness by sharing his story through speaking engagements, writing, and his book 'Bipolar General, My Forever War with Mental Illness.'

Resources like NAMI, Grit, BiAffect and the forthcoming documentary 'Brainstorm' are highlighted for further support and education on mental health.

Stay connected with Gregg here!

Overcoming Stigma: Kateri's Journey With Bipolar Disorder

They discuss Kateri's initial diagnosis at 18, struggles with self-stigma, and the crucial role of family support. Kateri shares her personal experiences, including her battle with substance abuse, abusive relationships, and her transformative path toward advocacy and mental health awareness.

She highlights effective coping mechanisms such as meditation, prayer, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Kateri also emphasizes the importance of community involvement, such as her role in NAMI and her yoga business, which supports others facing similar challenges.

This episode provides a heartfelt look into the resilience and dedication required to live well with bipolar disorder.

Connect with Kateri here!

John F. O'Donnell: Comedy, Bipolar Disorder, and Resilience

John discusses his early diagnosis, the challenges of managing his condition, and how integrating his experiences into his comedy has helped both himself and others.

The conversation dives into the importance of sleep, medication compliance, and having a support system, as John offers insights and advice for others dealing with similar struggles.

Stay connected with John here!

Embracing Bipolar: Kelcie's Journey of Acceptance and Support

Kelcie discusses her diagnosis in 2020, overcoming denial, and the vital support from her family, especially her mother.

She opens up about the challenges of living with bipolar, including experiencing psychosis, drug use and toxic relationships, and highlights the importance of community and support systems in her life today.

Kelcie talks about her passion for teaching and the impact of a supportive work environment on her well-being, as well as how journaling and reconnecting with family in helping her navigate recent life changes.

Stay connected with Kelcie here!

Since it is the last Monday of the month you know what that means.... time to break down all things June.

I asked (on a story on my paris.scobie Instagram account) what topic you wanted me to review most and the winner was... the first month working full time in my speaking business!

I cover this along with the other top 3 you voted for: behind the scenes of NAMICon, review of all June things and talk about my audiobook that is now out!

In addition to this, I quickly review the other 14 things that happened this month and why they have a place in my life.

Most importantly, I share with you what I did this month to show up for myself on both the good (speaking at NAMICon, being interviewed on AZ Preps Live) and bad (getting a cold, losing a loved one) days.

Subscribe to my free newsletter here

Follow me on Instagram here

Steve Wilson's Journey of Resilience, Surviving Sexual Assault at 9 and Advocacy.

Steve shares his powerful journey as detailed in his book 'Teetering on a Tight Rope: My Bipolar Journey,' discussing his experience living with bipolar disorder since 1978, the impact of early childhood trauma, struggles in his careers, and the importance of mental health support.

Steve speaks candidly about the challenges faced due to inadequate mental health care and insurance limitations, and the crucial role of support networks in coping with mental illness.

His story highlights the ongoing need for advocacy and systemic change in mental health care.

Stay connected with Steve here!

In this episode of the 'Live Well, Bipolar Podcast,' Paris introduces Sam, a Virginia Beach native and mental health advocate.

Sam shares his journey living with bipolar disorder, detailing his initial denial, the impact of the pandemic on his mental health, and his first manic episode leading to hospitalization.

He discusses the role of exercise, particularly running, and the importance of community and support in managing his condition. The conversation highlights the significance of involving family in therapy, the challenges of mental health treatment, and practical steps for maintaining mental well-being.

Stay connected with Sam here!

00:00 Welcome to the Live Well, Bipolar Podcast

00:24 Meet Sam: A Journey Through Bipolar Disorder

02:18 Sam's Diagnosis Story: Facing Bipolar Disorder

04:47 The Turning Point: Therapy, Denial, and Self-Discovery

07:08 Running Towards Recovery: The Role of Physical Activity in Mental Health

10:04 A Manic Episode Unveiled: Navigating the Storm

18:56 Hospitalization and Reflection: A New Beginning

31:19 Rebuilding Life: Therapy, Family, and Self-Care

36:20 Living Well with Bipolar: Insights and Closing Thoughts

Unraveling the Mystery of Mental Health: Integrative Psychiatry and Brain Scans

In this episode of 'Live Well Bipolar,' we sit down with Dr. Lisa Parsons, an integrative psychiatrist at the Amen Clinics in Arizona.

Dr. Parsons shares her unique journey into psychiatry, driven by both personal and professional revelations during her medical school rotations. Despite initial hesitations due to her family's mental health challenges, she found her calling in understanding the intersection of mental health and medical illness.

Dr. Parsons discusses the transformative approach at Amen Clinics, emphasizing comprehensive diagnostics including brain scans, to offer more personalized and effective treatments. Addressing topics from the stigma associated with bipolar disorder to the critical role of asking 'why' to understand the root causes of psychiatric symptoms, the conversation shines a light on the importance of integrative medicine in mental health.

Highlighting cases of elevated free copper as an example, Dr. Parsons illustrates how specific treatments, informed by detailed scans and lab tests, can significantly improve patients' quality of life. The episode ultimately defines living well with bipolar as an empowered state, where individuals honor their journey and strive for a deeper understanding and mastery over their health.

Check out the work at Amen Clinics here!

00:00 Welcome to Live Well Bipolar: Introducing Dr. Lisa Parsons

01:18 Dr. Parsons' Journey into Integrative Psychiatry

05:13 The Intersection of Mental Health and Medical Science

06:08 Unveiling the Missing Pieces in Mental Health Treatment

12:39 Personalizing Treatment: The Amen Clinics Approach

30:25 Empowerment and Living Well with Bipolar

33:56 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect

May 2024 Recap and New Beginnings

In this solo episode, Paris Scobie discusses her decision to resign from her professional career to pursue her speaking business for mental health advocacy full-time.

She provides a month-in-review for May 2024, sharing her experiences speaking at the Mental Health America of Arizona Seeds Conference and the upcoming NAMICon in Denver.

Paris also discusses her new Instagram account, rebranded LinkedIn, and newly launched website. She reflects on the significance of connection, personal growth, and prioritizing what truly aligns with her purpose.

Lastly, she announces upcoming projects like her audio book and underscores the importance of lived experiences in determining personal value.

Follow Paris's new Instagram here!

Subscribe to Paris's free newsletter here!

00:00 Welcome to the Solo Episode: A Personal Journey

01:12 The Excitement of May: New Beginnings and Connections

02:32 Embracing a New Path: The Transition to Mental Health Advocacy

04:02 From Speaking Engagements to Personal Growth

05:19 Upcoming Events and Expanding Influence

06:12 Reconnecting and Learning at Hollywood and Mind summit

07:45 The Journey of Resignation and Embracing Full-Time Advocacy

08:05 Behind the Scenes: Preparing an Audiobook and Rebranding

14:32 The Power of Connection and Gratitude