This episode of the podcast was recorded last year on MY BIRTHDAY so I brought it back!!!!

Its all about bipolar, birthdays & BIG feelings! When I asked on Instagram if anyone else gets bipolar symptoms triggered by birthdays the response was huge. I’m not alone when comes to living with symptoms and episodes brought on by this mood disorder. When I look at the comments you all left on the previous post I could see it was something that we need to talk about so I recorded a solo episode! I share stories about the good, bad and often disappointing birthdays I’ve had. I also spilled the beans about what it was like to be an extrovert, teacher and event planner that goes wild planning kids birthdays WITH HYPOMANIA. It was not always pretty behind-the-scenes.

I didn't realize how much I suffered until I really started talking about my experiences through the years. This episodes tells all of my big emotions and moods I have experienced about getting older or celebrating. The episode also covers practices that I do to that prevent or work through triggers so bipolar doesn’t take over learner ruin my day. I can celebrate that I am much better at managing my big bipolar birthday feelings and I know what I need to enjoy the day.

Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that challenges stigmas, promotes empathy, and celebrates the beauty of imperfection. this is bipolar... 

Click to listen to the Highlights:

(00:12:37) Surprises Gone Wrong

(00:16:43) Learning to Let Go

(00:20:09) Birthdays with Kids

(00:29:02) The Pressure of Perfection

(00:32:13) Strategies for Better Birthdays

If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect.  

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there.

We are all in this together.

Love, Shaley

Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, podcast host and mental illness advocate who aims to dismantle the stigma around mental health and create a safe community for those that struggle. She lives with bipolar 2 and currently hosts “This is Bipolar” vlog and podcast. Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about mental health disorders. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." Shaley is also an elementary school teacher and an event planner. You can connect with Shaley on Instagram & TikTok @this.is.bipolar or find me at thisisbipolar.com

Welcome to another episode of "This is Bipolar," where host Shaley Hoogendoorn delves into personal experiences and insights about living with bipolar 2 disorder. Shaley an advocate, teacher, wife, and mother, shares her own journey alongside guest Sara Schley, who brings her perspective as an entrepreneur and grandmother living with the condition.

In this episode, they discuss the profound impact of proper diagnosis and the often-long journey to receiving it, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nuances of bipolar disorders, particularly bipolar 2. Shaley and Sara explore the misconceptions about bipolar depression, the challenges of parenting with a mental health condition, and the crucial role of community support in healing and empowerment.

Through candid conversation, they aim to break down stigma, offer a supportive hand to those struggling, and showcase how creativity and resilience can emerge even in the face of adversity. Sara also shares information about her upcoming documentary film "Brainstorm," which promises to highlight inspiring stories and cutting-edge research on bipolar disorder.

this is bipolar...

Connect with us:

IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel

TT @this.is.bipolar thisisbipolar.com

(00:07:35) Understanding Hypomania

(00:11:16) Navigating Anger & Shame

(00:12:58) The Reality of Bipolar Depression

(00:19:14) Coping with Chronic Mental Illness

(00:22:34) Discussing Parenting and Bipolar

(00:26:22) The Weight of Suicidal Thoughts

(00:39:46) The Making of the BrainStorm Film

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. 

Much love, Shaley xo 

About Our Guest:

Sara Schley is the author of the acclaimed memoir, BrainStorm: From Broken to Blessed on the Bipolar Spectrum. She is a business consultant, speaker, and author who has led organizational transformations at renowned companies around the world. She is a mother, grandmother, community leader, and has been married to a great guy for twenty-six years. She also has a Bipolar II brain, on the Bipolar Spectrum. Sara has kept this mostly a secret for four decades. Until now. She is choosing to tell her riveting story – from broken to blessed – to save lives, end stigma, and optimize healing for millions.

Sara is also the leader of Seed Systems, an international consulting collaborative that she founded in 1994 to create a regenerative, inclusive, and kinder world. She has worked with over 50 enterprises and 1000s of individuals in every sector. A social change entrepreneur, Sara has also co-founded several networks including The SoL Sustainability Consortium, Women in Power, and most recently, WeTheChange.

Sara has written two previous books: The Necessary Revolution: How Individuals and Organizations Are Working Together to Create a Sustainable World (Doubleday, 2008), based on her experience convening the SoL Sustainability Consortium and co-authored with business guru Peter M. Senge, and others which was translated into 10 languages; and Secrets of the 7th Day: How Everyone Can Find Renewal Through the Wisdom and Practices of the Sabbath (White Cloud Press, 2014). She has two new manuscripts in the works.

Sara travels nationally and internationally for her work. (At least she did before Covid!) In her free time, she enjoys every outdoor sport there is: hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, rafting, paddling, sailing, windsurfing, to name just a few. When not on the road or on the water, Sara lives in the hills in Western Massachusetts with her husband, twin teens, and one aging yellow lab.

You can find all Sara's current projects here:

saraschley.com

Brainstorm the Film

BrainTalk the Podcast

More about your Host:

Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness. 

Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." 

Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.

Welcome to another episode of this is bipolar, where we dive deep into the complexities of living with Bipolar 2 Disorder and how it impacts relationships. Shaley Hoogendoorn, a mental illness advocate, and Andrea Vasilev, a doctor of psychology, share their personal experiences and professional insights into how bipolar disorder affects friendships, romantic relationships, and family dynamics. Through their candid conversation, listeners are encouraged to understand the challenges posed by mood swings and the importance of self-awareness and communication in maintaining healthy connections.

This episode emphasizes the misconceptions around bipolar disorder and relationships, debunking the myth that individuals with bipolar cannot have successful and meaningful relationships. Shaley and Andrea discuss the struggles and stigmas faced, while also shedding light on the beauty of finding supportive networks and friends within the bipolar community. They also touch upon the importance of self-care and the role it plays in navigating romantic partnerships and family relationships. Join us to learn more about the nuances of bipolar and relationships, and discover new ways to support yourself and loved ones on this journey.

(00:02:31) Relationships & Bipolar Challenges

(00:13:48) Romantic Relationships & Communication

(00:24:31) Intimacy & Hypersexuality

(00:32:40) The Importance of Friendships

(00:36:37) Navigating Family Dynamics

(00:47:30) Breaking Stigmas & Myths

Connect with us:

IG @this.is.bipolar

Youtube: this is bipolar channel

TT @this.is.bipolar

thisisbipolar.com

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. 

Much love, Shaley xo 

More about your Host:

Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness. 

Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." 

Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.

Meet our Guest Co-Host:

Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.

Welcome to another empowering episode of "This is Bipolar," hosted by Shaley Hoogendoorn. This episode is a part of the  "Going Deeper" series, offering listeners an opportunity to explore the multifaceted nature of bipolar disorder with depth and nuance Join Shaley along with special guest Vasavi Kumar as they delve into the dynamic interplay of creativity and mental illness, particularly focusing on Bipolar Disorder. They answer a common question- Can you still tap into your creativity while being treated with medication? Does managing hypomania and mania take it all away?

The conversation takes a personal turn as Shaley and Vasavi reflect on the  challenges and triumphs linked to medication and creativity, emphasizing the role of external and internal factors in nurturing a creative life. 

Tune in to explore how engaging in small yet meaningful rituals, self-validation, and understanding the interplay between energy and creativity can illuminate the journey to self-acceptance and understanding.  You can live with a mood disorder and do beautiful and creative work.  Creativity may look differently than pre diagnosis but you can find to focus to bring your ideas to fruition. This episode is a call to accept and manage your bipolar, commit to staying creative and connect with a vibrantly alive community.

Your story matters, and together, we can shed light on the diverse experiences within the Bipolar community. Connect with the 'this is bipolar' community here IG @this.is.bipolar or at thisisbipolar.com

(00:02:26) Navigating Medication and Creativity

(00:05:51) The Role of Quiet Spaces

(00:09:44) Embracing Play Over Productivity

(00:12:38) Finding Fun in Creation

(00:16:51) The Connection Between Movement and Ideas

(00:21:35) Momentum in Small Actions

(00:29:13) Creativity in all Moods

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. 

Much love, Shaley xo 

More about your Host:

Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness. 

Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." 

Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.

Meet Vasavi:

Vasavi Kumar is the author of SAY IT OUT LOUD, and a communication and visibility strategist who trains individuals to be assertive, confident, and bold. She advocates for mental health and helps those who live with bipolar disorder to release shame and find the support they need.

You can purchase SAY IT OUT LOUD here:

Canadian Amazon Link:

SAY IT OUT LOUD: Using the Power of Your Voice to Listen to Your Deepest Thoughts and Courageously Pursue Your Dreams

US Amazon Link: SAY IT OUT LOUD

"It's a guide that teaches people how to communicate with the different parts of themselves in a healthy and productive way.

In this emotionally candid podcast episode, Shaley Hoogendoorn and Dr. Andrea Vassilev share their personal journeys living with bipolar disorder. The hosts delve into the topic of depression and what we can do when depressive symptoms and episodes arise to help cope. Together, they discuss the importance of community and support groups, providing a safe space for individuals to connect and share their experiences.

The episode explores the complexities of bipolar depression, distinguishing between clinical and situational depression and offering strategies for coping. With a focus on self-care, mindfulness, and the power of human connection, Shaley and Andrea provide practical insights and encouragement for surviving and managing bipolar depression.

Other Bipolar and Depression Warriors are invited to navigate a hopeful path, filled with compassionate guidance and personal anecdotes, reminding them that they are not alone and that their stories are far from over.

(00:11:09) The Challenge of Self-Compassion

(00:11:40) Strategies for Coping

(00:15:47) The Importance of Professional Help

(00:19:57) Power of Gratitude

(00:29:25) Embracing Colour and Movement

(00:31:24) Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques

(00:31:24) Building Social Support

(00:48:29) Distraction Through Creativity

Connect with us:

IG @this.is.bipolar

Youtube: this is bipolar channel

TT @this.is.bipolar

thisisbipolar.com

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. 

Much love, Shaley xo 

More about your Host:

Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness. 

Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." 

Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.

Meet our Guest Co-Host:

Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.

Welcome to another enlightening episode of 'This is Bipolar,' hosted by the passionate mental health advocate Shaley Hoogendoorn. As a mom, wife, school teacher, and individual living with Bipolar II disorder, Shaley understands the power of sharing personal stories to educate others, dismantle stigma, and foster collective healing. In this episode, Shaley and her co-host Dr. Andrea Vassilev dive deep into the early warning signs and symptoms of depression, offering listeners valuable insights into recognizing these signals in themselves and others.

The candid conversation covers key diagnostic criteria for major depressive episodes, highlighting that experiencing even some symptoms is valid and deserving of attention and support. Andrea, a registered psychological associate with over 26 years of living with bipolar disorder, adds her expertise and personal experiences, making the discussion both relatable and informative.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and consider how these insights might apply to them. Shaley and Andrea emphasize the importance of reaching out for help, sharing thoughts with healthcare providers, and appreciating that understanding one's own journey can aid in managing depression more effectively. Join this heartfelt dialogue as it provides hope and community for those navigating their mental health journeys.

this is bipolar...

(04:13) Early Warning Signs of Depression

(09:28) Understanding Diagnostic Criteria

(12:21) Personal Experiences with Depression

(25:49) Navigating Relationships with Bipolar

(31:22) The Impact of Depression on Connection

(39:25) Community Insights on Depression

(47:16) Encouragement for Those Struggling

Connect with us:

IG @this.is.bipolar

Youtube: this is bipolar channel

TT @this.is.bipolar

thisisbipolar.com

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. 

Much love, Shaley xo 

Meet our Guest Co-Host:

Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.

Join Shaley Hoogendoorn as she dives deep into conversations about living with Bipolar 2 disorder, focusing on self-love and acceptance. In this insightful episode, Shaley and is joined by author guest Hannah Blum. Hannah has written "The Truth About Broken: The Unfixed Version of Self-love and "Oh Mind Where Have You Gone". Together they explore the challenges of self-perception, the societal influences on self-worth, and strategies to overcome self-doubt.

Through personal stories and shared experiences, they discuss the importance of owning one's narrative and the transformative power of loving oneself as is. Hannah shares her journey of embracing her imperfections and finding beauty in authenticity, while Shaley expands on the collective healing that arises from sharing mental health journeys.

This episode encourages listeners to challenge societal norms around mental health, embrace their unique imperfections, and practice self-love as a continuous journey, rather than a destination. Inspirational and deeply personal, it aims to foster a community of understanding and break down the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder.

Chapter Markers:

(00:3:00) Understanding Self-Hate

(00:07:10) Redefining Self-Love

(00:09:26) Empowering Emotions

(00:13:47) The Power of Affirmations

My dear listeners,

As always, we talk about hard and messy mental illness topics. This episode could be activating so please take care of yourself. The episode is always here if you need to have breaks to take care of yourself.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. Much love, Shaley xo

You can purchase Hannah's books here

The Truth About Broken: The Unfixed Version of Self-love

Amazon US: https://a.co/d/33n6VYv

Amazon Canada: https://a.co/d/99SOWmn

Oh Mind, Where Have You Gone Today?

Amazon US: https://a.co/d/gE8Mgsx

Canada: https://a.co/d/iFirz0x

More about Hannah:

You can connect with Hannah at halfwaytohannah.com Follow and follow @hannahdblum on IG for insights and inspiration.

#bipolar #thisisbipolar #bipolardisorder #selflove #mentalhealthmatters

Join Shaley Hoogendoorn in this enlightening episode as she dives deep into the intricacies of bipolar disorder with distinguished expert Dr. Holly A. Swartz. Delve into the transformative potential of Social Rhythm Therapy, a groundbreaking intervention aimed at enhancing the well-being of those living with bipolar disorder. Discover the science behind circadian rhythms and how daily routines and social interactions can positively impact mood stability.

Dr. Swartz shares practical strategies, emphasizing the importance of consistent habits and social connections in maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Whether you are seeking knowledge for yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to navigate the challenges of bipolar disorder. Don't miss this chance to learn from a leading authority in the field.

(09:13) The meaning of 'circadian rhythms"

(18:28) Shaley's biggest struggle with Social Rhythms

(20:05) The journey of a psychiatrist

(25:45) The 5 things used to measure rythyms

(45:44) About "The Social Rhythms Therapy Workbook for Bipolar Disorder"

(50:40) Building community and support

Follow IG @this.is.bipolar (subscribe for peer support)

Youtube: this is bipolar channel

TT @this.is.bipolar

Buy Dr Holly A. Swartz's book here:

US amazon link: The Social Rhythms Therapy Workbook For Bipolar Disorder

Canada amazon link: The Social Rhythm Therapy WorkBook for Bipolar Disorder

Dr. Holly A. Swartz is Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and President of the International Society of Bipolar Disorders (ISBD). She received her undergraduate degree from Harvard College, medical degree from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and completed her psychiatric residency training at New York Hospital / Cornell University School of Medicine. 

Dr. Swartz’s research focuses on understanding and optimizing treatments for mood disorders. She is well known for her work evaluating Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) as treatments for depression and bipolar disorder. Her research focuses on the role of IPSRT and pharmacotherapy in the management of bipolar II depression and IPT in the management of maternal depression. She is engaged in collaborative projects to develop computational frameworks to model dyadic interpersonal behaviors in relation to psychotherapy process and outcomes and to understand neural correlates of change in chronotherapeutic behavioral interventions. Her research has been funded by the National Institute of Health, National Science Foundation, and the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation. Follow Dr. Swartz on Instagram @socialrhythms_doctor.

Welcome back to 'This is Bipolar,' where Shaley Hoogendoorn, a passionate mental health advocate living with Bipolar 2 disorder, invites us into a heartfelt conversation about navigating change as we head into 2025. Alongside her friend and new co-host, Dr. Andrea Vasilev, a doctor of psychology also living with bipolar, they explore the complexities of the New Year's transition for those living with bipolar disorder.

Glammed up in sparkling New Year's dresses (which you can see on the Youtube version), the duo dives into the challenges and expectations that come with the start of a new year, offering hope and alternative perspectives on how to approach personal goals and resolutions. Their stories and practical insights help shed light on managing life's pressures, accepting one's bipolar journey, and finding solidarity in shared experiences.

With emphasis on connection, self-acceptance, and redefining success, Shaley and Andrea encourage listeners to embrace their unique path, sharing methods they've employed to cultivate resilience and joy. Join them in this engaging episode, which reminds us that our stories aren't over and that there is profound strength in our shared journey.

this is bipolar...

(02:36) Welcoming Guest Co-Host

(04:15) Embracing New Years Themes

(07:54) Navigating Holiday Stress

(12:59) Body memory & bipolar

(14:53) The pressure of self-improvement

(17:35) Goals vs Resolutions

(21:16) Celebrating Small Achievements 

(27:41) Accepting bipolar disorder

(32:30) The Journey to Self-Love 

(35:45) Redefining Success

(40:29) Finding Joy in Quirkiness

(44:40) Closing Thoughts on Acceptance

Follow IG @this.is.bipolar

Youtube: this is bipolar channel

TT @this.is.bipolar

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. 

If you are looking to connect with a caring bipolar community or a support group, you can subscribe on Instagram and be added to a peer support chat and have access to a peer support meeting every month. We would love to see you there.

Much love, Shaley xo 

About our guest cohost:

Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com. * to hear Andrea's full story scroll back to our 'Conversations with' episode or the 'Self stigma episode".

Join Shaley Hoogendoorn in this powerful episode of 'This is Bipolar' as she opens her heart and shares her journey living with Bipolar 2 disorder. With warmth and sincerity, Shaley discusses the impact of sharing personal stories in breaking stigma and fostering understanding around mental health. She highlights the value of storytelling and community in healing individually and collectively.

In this episode, Shaley engages in an insightful conversation with special guest Jade Rose, a fellow mental health advocate and author. Jade shares her experience navigating life with bipolar disorder, discussing the journey to diagnosis, the challenges of living unmedicated, and the relief found through treatment. The dialogue dives deep into the manic experiences, sensory sensitivities, and the nuances of having a bipolar mind.

Listen as both Shaley and Jade shed light on the importance of connection, understanding, and shared experiences in managing mental health. They explore creative expressions through words and podcasts as a means of reaching others, all while addressing the complexities of motherhood and maintaining balance in life with bipolar disorder.

this is bipolar...

Follow IG @this.is.bipolar

Youtube: this is bipolar channel

TT @this.is.bipolar

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. 

Much love, Shaley xo 

ABOUT JADE:

Writer, Podcaster and Mental Health Advocate.