Living with Bipolar I disorder means navigating a complex world of medications, self-care practices, and support networks. Each element plays a vital role in managing the condition, and the right combination often takes time to discover. If I could speak to my younger self, the 16-year-old girl starting to feel the weight of Anxiety and Depression, I’d tell her that it’s okay to be scared—but she’s not alone.

This blog is for anyone dealing with Bipolar I disorder—young girls, women, parents, and even teachers who are witnessing mental health struggles in those around them. I’ve walked this road for over two decades, and I want to share my experiences, my mistakes, and the insights I’ve gained. Above all, I want to offer hope. With the right medication, self-care, and support system, Bipolar I disorder can be managed.

1. Understanding the Role of Medications in Bipolar I Disorder

Medication is often the first line of defense for managing Bipolar I disorder. When I was diagnosed, I didn’t fully grasp how critical medication would become in my life. There’s a misconception that taking a pill will immediately solve everything, but the reality is far more complex.

Finding the right combination of medications can take weeks, months, or even years. For me, it has been an ongoing journey. I’ve been on different mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, and not every medication has worked. Sometimes the side effects outweighed the benefits. But with patience and open communication with my psychiatrist, I’ve been able to find a regimen that stabilizes my moods and keeps my symptoms in check.

Currently, my medication includes mood stabilizers in pill form and an antipsychotic administered as a monthly injection. This "drug cocktail" works for me now, but I know it’s always subject to change. Medication is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it’s essential to work with healthcare providers to tailor treatment to your needs.

For anyone navigating this process, I encourage you to stay patient and keep an open dialogue with your psychiatrist and your pharmacist about what’s working and what isn’t. It’s a trial-and-error process, but with time, you can find the right balance.

If you want to explore more about starting your medication journey, check out my previous post How to Start Managing Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide.

2. Self-medicating: A Path I Wish I Hadn’t Taken

When I was 21, I thought I found an easier solution to my struggles—marijuana. At the time, I believed it was solving my problems. It eased my anxiety, slowed my racing thoughts, and seemed to offer the escape I needed. But in reality, all I was doing was running from the root causes of my mental health issues. What I failed to realize was marijuana acts as a mood destabilizer and is detrimental to people with serious mood disorders like Bipolar.

For a while, it felt like marijuana was helping. But by 27, I had turned to cocaine as my new drug of choice. Cocaine gave me a temporary sense of control—helping with insomnia, increasing focus, and quieting the constant chatter in my mind. For a time, I convinced myself that it was a good thing.

It wasn’t. Cocaine became a gateway to a downward spiral, and I soon found myself in my 8th psychotic episode, landing in Lakeridge Health Oshawa. That moment was a wake-up call. Self-medicating had only made things worse, and I realized that I needed to rely on professional help, not substances.

Today, I’m 9 months sober from marijuana and 22 months sober from cocaine, and I can see clearly how self-medicating only pushed me further away from healing. If you’re tempted to use substances to cope with your mental health, I urge you to reconsider. Working with a psychiatrist to find the right medications is a much safer and more effective approach.

3. Self-care as a Daily Practice: More than Just a Buzzword

Medication is essential, but it’s not enough on its own. Self-care is just as critical to managing Bipolar I disorder, and it’s something that needs to be practiced daily. When I talk about self-care, I don’t mean bubble baths and spa days (though those can be nice). Self-care is about maintaining your mental and emotional well-being. It’s about making time for yourself, recognizing your limits, and honoring what your mind and body need.

For me, journaling has always been a key part of my self-care. I’ve been writing poetry since I was a child, and putting my thoughts on paper helps me process my emotions in a way that feels safe and constructive. It’s a tool that allows me to reflect and make sense of my experiences. I can look back to where I was and take pride in where I am today.

Self-care looks different for everyone. Whether it’s meditation, spending time in nature, or simply taking a moment to breathe, it’s about finding what works for you and sticking to it. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury; it’s a necessity when living with Bipolar I disorder.

4. The Intersection of Medications and Self-care

Medications and self-care go hand in hand. Medication helps stabilize my moods and manage my symptoms, but self-care allows me to maintain balance. When I’m consistent with both, I’m in the best place to manage Bipolar I disorder.

However, it’s important to understand that medication can have side effects, and that’s where self-care becomes even more vital. For instance, certain medications might make you feel sluggish or less motivated. On days when I’m feeling the side effects of my medication, I rely on self-care practices to help me cope. Whether it’s journaling, talking to a close friend, or taking a walk, these small acts help me navigate the tougher days.

If you’re looking for practical tools to combine medication and self-care, you might find my previous post Best Tools and Resources for Managing Bipolar Disorder in 2024 helpful.

5. Practical Tips from Bipolar Survivors: Real-World Experiences

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from living with Bipolar I disorder is that healing is not linear. There will be highs and lows, successes and setbacks. The key is persistence. Here are a few practical tips I’ve picked up along the way:

• Stay patient with your treatment: Finding the right medication combination takes time. It can be frustrating, but it’s important to stick with it and communicate openly with your psychiatrist.

• Track your moods: Keeping a mood journal has been incredibly helpful for me. It allows me to see patterns and identify triggers. It also gives my healthcare team valuable insights into how I’m doing. You get mood tracker templates online or from your psychiatrist.

• Build a solid support system: Whether it’s family, friends, or a peer support group, having people who understand what you’re going through can make all the difference.

• Make self-care a priority: Don’t wait until you’re burnt out to take care of yourself. Practice self-care daily, and listen to your body when it’s telling you to rest.

Building Your Support Network: Therapy, Family, and Friends

A strong support network is crucial in managing Bipolar I disorder. In my experience, having a combination of professional therapy, family support, and friendships has been life-changing. My therapist helps me process emotions and develop strategies for coping, while my family provides a stable foundation. Friends who understand my condition—especially those who have gone through similar experiences—are invaluable for emotional support.

Therapy is an important part of this network. Working with a mental health professional allows you to dive deeper into the emotional and psychological aspects of Bipolar I disorder. For me, therapy has been a safe space where I can unpack my thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Family and friends are also key, though it’s important to recognize that not everyone will understand what you’re going through. It can be helpful to educate those close to you about your condition, so they know how to support you. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you, rather than those who bring negativity or judgment.

Final Thoughts

Managing Bipolar I disorder is a lifelong process, one that requires balancing medications, self-care, and a strong support network. I’ve made my share of mistakes—like turning to substances to cope—but I’ve learned that true healing comes from working closely with professionals, finding the right medications, and taking care of myself daily. On my journey to wellness self-compassion has also been very important.

If you’re struggling with Bipolar I disorder, please know that you’re not alone. It may take time to find what works for you, but with the right combination of treatments and support, you can live a fulfilling, balanced life. Keep going, keep advocating for yourself, and never hesitate to ask for help when you need it.