Can We Do All Things In Spite of Bipolar?

Some people with bipolar disorder are caught up in their limitations. Others do not let their limitations stop them. The best are those who are balanced between the two.

I go by the Scripture that says, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." I apply that to my bipolar disorder as well. Of course, I know I do have limitations because of my bipolar. Like, I cannot work a full-time job outside the home any more - it is just too stressful for me. I know that Scripture is true, yet I also have to be realistic because of my bipolar.

Yet I have come so far since I was first diagnosed and my greatest accomplishment sometimes was simply getting out of bed or getting dressed for the day. I remember those days, and it was really difficult for me. Times were so hard, and I was so depressed. Other times I thought I would fly off the side of a building if I weren't contained. That's where medication really helped me.

Of course, time has really helped me, too. Over the years, I've learned to manage my bipolar disorder so that I'm no longer struggling to get out of bed or to stop myself from flying off a building. I've been able to maintain a part-time job writing for a bipolar website, and I've written four books (go to www.brokenroseministries.com to order).

I've been able to accomplish a lot more than they thought I'd be able to when I was first diagnosed, because I had such a bad case of bipolar. I believe a lot of it has to do with that Scripture. Yes, I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. But I also have to do some of the footwork myself.

I've had to do what I could to manage my bipolar as well. I take my medications regularly, see my psychiatrist and therapist, and do what I can to take care of myself.

I've grown a lot over the years, as has my stability. We learn and we grow. And we become more stable. Look back over your years. Aren't you more stable now than you were when you were first diagnosed?

Wishing you peace and stability,

Remember God loves you and so do I,

Michele
ps. Check out my new bipolar book at www.brokenroseministries.com