Onika L. Dainty

I know you must be wondering where I disappeared to after my last post on January 9, 2025. The honest truth is I needed a mental health break. After my cousin’s passing in November 2024 and my travels to my home country of Guyana, South America I was mentally, physically and emotionally depleted. Although I had a wonderful time back home reconnecting with family and friends I was struggling with managing my mental health and maintaining my normal routine. The excitement of travel, being in a new environment, lack of sleep and mismanaging my medication (taking them at odd and inconsistent hours) threw me into a three-day manic episode. Historically, I have never had such a short period of Mania but the evidence was clear: excessive energy after a few hours sleep, racing thoughts, pressured speech, hyperspending and risky behaviour. After a few good nights of sleep and going back on my regular schedule for taking my medication I was able to manage the symptoms and fortunately I went back to baseline. 

When I returned home however, I was physically and mentally exhausted. My mood dipped into a depression and I had no energy or motivation to do the tasks I love like writing my blog. I also had to prepare myself mentally for what was upcoming, specifically starting my trauma treatment therapy. I didn’t stay down for long though, I got into gear by starting to rebuild my structure, routine and habits that are so important to my mental wellness. This included my daily to do lists, a new nutritional plan where I cook (yes I cook now) and eliminate processed foods (so no more DoorDash takeout) and I started going to the gym five days a week in the mornings and walking 3-5 miles on the treadmill. All of these habits–some new, some old, have helped me increase my energy, helped with my sleep hygiene and helped me find my motivation especially for writing to all the readers who have supported me through my journey.

So, I’m back! I can’t promise you I won’t need a break again because unfortunately Bipolar disorder can be unpredictable. What I can promise is that I will keep you updated with self-reflections on how I’m doing because I know you care, I know I’m not alone and we are on this journey together. Look out for my February 1 blog in recognition of the start of Black History Month.

Truly Yours,

Onika the Bipolar Butterfly.