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. 

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. 

In this episode of "This is Bipolar," host Shaley Hoogendoorn is joined by returning guest Birdie Thorne to discuss the unique challenges of coping with Christmas while living with Bipolar 2 Disorder. Shaley and Birdie, both mental health advocates, share their personal experiences and offer valuable insights into managing the emotional highs and lows that come with the holiday season.

They delve into the pressures and expectations of holiday festivities, exploring how these can impact mental health. Shaley shares her journey of learning to balance her Christmas enthusiasm with self-care, while Birdie talks about creating meaningful holiday memories despite past difficulties. Listeners will find tips on maintaining routines, managing stress, and setting boundaries during this often overwhelming time of year.

Join the conversation as Shaley and Birdie highlight the importance of finding comfort and joy, whether it's through quiet moments at home or cherished family traditions. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that everyone’s holiday experience is unique, and it's okay to celebrate in a way that best supports your well-being.

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 

Follow @this.is.bipolar Instagram and subscribe for peer support.

About Birdie:

About Birdie: Birdie is a mental health advocate, writer, and speaker. She has written articles for the International Bipolar Foundation and is a speaker with NAMI. You can find her on instagram @birdies.bipolar.brain for content on Bipolar and other mental health conditions. You can buy Birdie's book here: "I Am Her, She Is Me" by Birdie Thorne

Join Shaley Hoogendoorn, host of "Conversations With," as she delves into the fascinating world of emotions through the lens of "Inside Out 2." Living with Bipolar 2 Disorder, Shaley shares how storytelling can heal and educate, breaking down stigmas and bringing understanding to mental health.

In this engaging episode, Shaley is joined by Charise Jewell, a mother and author diagnosed with Bipolar I, to discuss the representation of emotions in "Inside Out 2." The conversation covers the introduction of new characters like Anxiety and Ennui, and their impact on viewers, particularly children, in understanding mental health.

Shaley and Charise explore how the movie portrays anxiety, the importance of compassion towards emotions, and the balance between joy and sadness. They discuss the film's depiction of anxiety attacks and its potential for teaching emotional literacy, while also critiquing some of the film's shortcomings in representing adult emotions.

The episode emphasizes the significance of talking about mental health openly, both in families and in society, to foster understanding and resilience. Shaley and Charise encourage listeners to watch "Inside Out 2" and share their thoughts, highlighting its potential as a conversation starter about emotions and mental health.

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 Charise:

A voracious reader and aspiring writer since childhood, Charise Jewell was born in South Africa and immigrated to Canada when she was seven years old. She holds an Honours B.Eng. in mechanical engineering from McGill University and worked as a robotics engineer for fifteen years before becoming a writer. Charise is the author of Crazy, Memoir of a Mom Gone Mad, her story about being diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 40, the healthcare system, stigma, and recovery, and Normal, a novel about mental illness for pre-teens. Charise sits on two advisory councils at Mount Sinai Hospital, and has given talks about her experience and mental illness to a variety of audiences ranging from elementary students to construction workers. Charise lives in Toronto with her husband and three children. Visit her at www.charisejewell.com

Join Shaley Hoogendoorn in an inspiring episode of "this is bipolar" as she delves into the power of sharing personal stories to educate and break down stigma surrounding bipolar disorder. Shaley, who lives with bipolar 2 disorder, believes that sharing is healing both individually and collectively, fostering understanding and connection.

In this episode, Shaley interviews Lee Formella, a passionate advocate for mental health awareness from @benefits_of_bipolar. Lee shares his journey of living with bipolar disorder, how he began his advocacy work, and the impact it has had on his life and others. From the challenges of starting to share his story online to finding a supportive community, Lee’s story is one of resilience and growth.

Discover how Lee transitioned from working in bars to finding purpose and fulfillment in mental health advocacy, leading to a role with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). This episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the transformative power of community support.

Listen in as Shaley and Lee discuss the importance of authenticity in advocacy, the challenges of facing criticism, and the profound connections made through shared experiences. Their conversation is a reminder that our stories are not over yet, and by sharing them, we can change perceptions and support each other in the journey of living with bipolar disorder. 

this is bipolar....

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here. 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. you can connect with me on IG @this.is.bipolar or by email [email protected]. 

Love, Shaley

About Lee:

I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, cptsd, and generalized anxiety disorder in September of 2019 after surviving 15 years of suicidal thoughts and absolute chaos. Though a lot of hard work, self-awareness, and surrounding myself with a phenomenal support network, I have found some stability, contentment and success while living with bipolar disorder. 

A little over a year ago, I decided to share my story after not finding many relatable folks initially who were living comfortably with bipolar disorder, but especially men. While I have since found so many incredible creators, writers and friends living with bipolar disorder, I am so happy to have started an account sharing my own story. It has led to lasting and meaningful relationships with people all around the world. 

Over the last year, I have been lucky enough to share my story for law enforcement, at universities and for local support groups and mental health education programs. It has provided me with direction and a path that combined a passion with a path forward. Recently, I began a job (my first not in sales or restaurants!) as the Director of Education for NAMI Southeast Minnesota, which will allow me to continue this amazing journey of spreading knowledge to eliminate the stigma that follows a mental illness diagnosis. 

You can find more of my story at benefitsofbipolar.com, on Instagram @benefits_of_bipolar, on YouTube @benefitsofbipolar and articles for the International Bipolar Foundation at ibpf.org! I truly love nothing more than meeting people who are passionate about mental illness and those who live with bipolar; please reach out!

Trigger/Activation Warning

In this powerful conversation, Gemma opens up about the challenges she faced, including a traumatic assault and a turbulent relationship that led to incarceration. Despite these overwhelming obstacles, Gemma's resilience shines through as she discusses her journey towards healing and self-discovery.

Gemma story is not only a story of trauma and heartache, it is a testament to her strength. Gemma has turned her pain into purpose. She hopes that by sharing the hard parts of her story, she can educate to stop stigma as well as give hope and comfort to those with similar trauma. Both Gemma and Shaley believe in forever chances and so please know there is always hope.

Our stories aren't over yet. This is bipolar...

For those seeking connection and support, Shaley invites listeners to join her vibrant community on Instagram @this.is.bipolar and explore exclusive content and a zoom support group through her subscription service. Together, let's continue to raise awareness and smash the stigma around people like Shaley and Gemma who live with bipolar disorder.

Meet Gemma:

Gemma is a mental health advocate, blogger and content creator. She shares her real and raw trauma and experience. Gemma not only  shares her survival story of trauma, incarceration, domestic violence, she show us a glimpse into daily life living with bipolar story and her daily life living with a mood disorder. Gemma is such a strong, honest and hilarious creator. Since she started her advocacy she has been featured on the true crime 'Shaun Atwood' and 'UK ex female Prisoner Francesca Fattores" YouTube channels. She has more podcast appearances coming soon!

Connect with and follow Gemma @bipolarmumjourney.

#bipolar #bipolardisorder #truecrime 

Hi besties, it's Shaley! In this solo episode, I dive deep into a highly requested topic: disordered eating, especially in the context of living with bipolar 2 disorder. I share my personal experiences, struggles, and the cyclical nature of my relationship with food. From teenage dieting to adult binge eating, I explore how these patterns intertwined with my bipolar disorder.

Join me as I discuss the impact of societal pressures, seasonal depression, and medication on weight and self-image. I also touch on the importance of community, peer support, and the transformative power of storytelling. Whether you're a returning listener or new to the podcast, I hope my story offers comfort and insight. Remember, you're not alone, and our stories are far from over.

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

#bipolardisorder

Connect with us on Instagram at @this.is.bipolar for more conversations and support. Let's smash the stigma together.

Welcome to another episode of this is bipolar with your host, Shaley Hoogendoorn. Shaley, a mom, teacher, wife, and content creator, shares her journey of living with Bipolar II disorder. In this solo episode, she delves into the early warning signs of hypomania.

Shaley explores her personal experiences and engages with responses from the Instagram community to highlight common early warning signs such as sleep disturbances, racing thoughts, and impulsive behaviors. She emphasizes the importance of medication compliance and self-awareness in managing bipolar disorder.

Additionally, this episode introduces the concept of shorter podcast segments that will feature insights from the community. Shaley also discusses the impact of seasonal changes, the urge to organize, and the challenges of maintaining relationships during hypomanic episodes.

Join Shaley in this insightful and heartfelt discussion, and learn how recognizing early warning signs can help in managing bipolar disorder effectively. Don't miss the follow-up episode where she will share strategies and tips for handling hypomania and mania.

Connect with the This is Bipolar community on Instagram at @this.is.bipolar and join the conversation!

MARKET RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY:

If you have bipolar one disorder or major depressive disorder and are having at least one treatment there is an opportunity for you to be paid to share your story and experience.

I am proud to partner with Health Influencers United and C-Space to offer an opportunity for participants to be a part of new market research. Together, we can have our voices be heard, and we can help shape the future of health support.

In this group, you will be connecting with others. You may find comfort in these open discussions, in seeing that you are not alone in your experience. In joining this community, you're contributing to advancing healthcare.

You'll be compensated for your time and for your insight. We deeply respect your privacy, so your participation is treated with the utmost care. And there are confidentiality protocols, so your personal information and identity will be safe.

CLICK HERE and see if you qualify.

By sharing your unique experience with major depressive disorder or bipolar 1, you have the power to create some positive change.

My dear listeners,

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

#bipolardisorder

Welcome to 'this is bipolar' hosted by Shaley Hoogendoorn, a platform dedicated to sharing the lived experiences of those with Bipolar Disorder. In this episode, Shaley introduces the "Going Deeper" series, which delves into specific topics of a previous podcast guests. These episodes are designed to further inspire, educate, and break down the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Join Shaley and her guest, Bassey Ikpi a New York Times bestselling author, as they explore the profound impact of Bipolar Disorder on daily life. Shaley and Bassey share some of their most painful friendship & romantic break ups. Bassey also shares her journey of writing a deeply personal book that serves as both a mirror for those who need to see themselves and a window for others to understand the experiences of their loved ones. Through vivid storytelling and candid discussions, this episode aims to foster empathy and awareness.

Tune in to hear about the challenges of living with Bipolar, the importance of sharing our stories, and the power of understanding and support. Whether you're seeking comfort, knowledge, or a sense of community, this episode offers valuable insights.

* Reminder* -the first full episode where Bassey shares her story is also available on the podcast. It would mean so much to me if you would be willing to go and follow the podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts or hit subscribe on here on YouTube. It’s completely free for you to do but it’s so valuable for me because I know it will help the episodes reach those that need it most.

This is Bipolar.

IG @this.is.bipolar YouTube: this is bipolar 

More about Bassey:

Bassey Ikpi is a Nigerian American writer and mental health advocate. Her debut essay collection, I’m Telling the Truth, But I’m Lying, was an instant New York Times bestseller. She appeared on HBO’s Def Poetry Jam and joined the touring company for their Tony Award-winning Broadway show, and has appeared on numerous stages across the globe. Bassey is an active voice in the mental health community and a pop culture connoisseur; Her essays on both topics can be found on platforms including The New York Times, The Root, and Okay Africa. She is also the creator of #NoShameDay, an initiative that normalizes conversations surrounding Black mental health in order to reduce stigma. In short: Bassey Ikpi is a Nigerian American writer, ex-poet, constant mental health advocate, underachieving overachiever, and memoir procrastinator. She lives in Maryland..

Recognition and Awards:

New York Times Bestselling Author

Reading Women’s Nonfiction Award Nominee

Washington Post Bestselling Author

WSJ+ Book of the Month

Amazon: Top 100 Books

Essence Magazine’s Woke 100

The Root 100 Public Figure

GOOP: 10 New Favorite Books

Bitch Magazine: Most Anticipated Books of 2019 

Bustle: 21 New Memoirs That Will Inspire, Motivate, and Captivate You

Bookish: Best Nonfiction of Summer Selection

In this episode on 'this is bipolar', mental illness advocate, Shaley Hoogendoorn has a enlightening conversation with Diana Partington, LPC-MHSP, M.ED. Diana is a mental health counselor specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).  Shaley invited Diana on the podcast after using Diana's "DBT for Life- Skills to Transform the Way You Live"workbook. This workbook exceeded Shaley's expectations, she found the book to be so easy to read, follow and practice. Shaley is finding that integrating these DBT skills into her days really helps her with managing her mood symptoms.

Diana and Shaley discuss the benefits and techniques of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), including its origins, philosophy, and the importance of mindfulness and emotion regulation. They also explored the concept of mindfulness in daily life, the importance of distinguishing between facts and opinions, and the challenges of identifying observable behaviors in communication. Lastly, they discussed the effectiveness of Diana's workbook for individuals with bipolar disorder and how Shaley hopes it can be a resource for her listeners. this is bipolar...

Buy "DBT for Life" by Diana Partington here   Use code: bipolar10 for $10 off 

Register for Online Workshops Use code: bipolar25 for $25 off webinars

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

Want to work with me? email thisisbipolarpodcast@gmail.com or connect on IG: @this.is.bipolar

More about Diana: 

Diana Partington is a licensed professional counselor and author of DBT for Life: Skills to transform the way you live. She offers online DBT skills classes, workshops, and training for clients and clinicians across North America. She wrote her master’s thesis at Vanderbilt on effectively teaching DBT skills for different learning styles. Passionate about making DBT skills accessible to everyone, Diana also speaks at major conferences and provides bespoke training for mental health professionals. Her website, DBTforLife.com (https://dbtforlife.com/talking-and-training/www.DBTforLife.com), is a hub of information about Dialectical Behavior Therapy, her educational offerings,