Inside Bipolar

Can I Stop My Bipolar Meds? Cold Turkey vs Tapering

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

"Do I have to take these meds forever?" It’s the most common question psychiatrists hear, but the answer is rarely a simple yes or no. In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (living with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (board-certified psychiatrist) dive into the risks, the realities, and the honest conversations most doctors avoid when it comes to stopping bipolar medication.

They break down why "cold turkey" is a recipe for disaster and explain the equally dangerous "hot turkey" otherwise known as restarting a full medication cocktail after a long break. Gabe shares his own journey of switching doctors to find a specialist in titration, illustrating the difference between "Mercedes Benz care" and trying to navigate a "hoopty" ride on your own. Dr. Nicole explains the science of brain receptors, the logistical hurdles of compounding pharmacies, and why the medical community is often resistant to "deprescribing."

Listeners Will Learn:

· Instead of "stopping" try reframing the conversation as "decreasing reliance"

· Why lowering your medication slowly gives you better results

· Finding a psych doctor who understands "deprescribing" may take time

· A successful, safe medication adjustment can take a year or more—it is a marathon, not a sprint

Whether you’re struggling with side effects like brain fog and sexual dysfunction or you simply want to feel more in control, this episode offers a roadmap for having an honest, data-driven conversation with your treatment team. Learn why "decreasing reliance" on medication is often a more successful goal than quitting entirely, and how to treat bumps in the road as data points rather than failures.

"Most people think stopping meds is like flipping a light switch—on Monday you're on them, and on Tuesday you're not. But in reality, it’s a slow, medical taper. It’s more accurate to describe this as 'decreasing our reliance' rather than just quitting, so we can actually see what the data tells us." ~Gabe Howard, Host

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning podcast host, author, and sought-after suicide prevention and mental health speaker, but he wouldn’t be any of those things today if he hadn’t been committed to a psychiatric hospital in 2003.
Gabe also hosts Healthline's Inside Mental Health podcast has appeared in numerous publications, including Bipolar magazine, WebMD, Newsweek, and the Stanford Online Medical Journal. He has appeared on all four major TV networks, ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX.
Among his many awards, he is the recipient of Mental Health America’s Norman Guitry Award, received two Webby Honoree acknowledgements, and received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero.”

Gabe wrote the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included! To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa.
Since completing her residency training, Dr. Nicole has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Tell a Friend: Sharing the show with the people we know is how our podcast will grow!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BONUS: Headlines of Horror: Schizophrenia Portrayals in News Media

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0000

Bonus Episode of "Inside Schizophrenia" podcast from Healthline Media.

“Paranoid schizophrenic admits to attacking dog walker.” When we watch a horror movie, we know the “madman” on screen is a work of fiction. But when the nightly news leads with a diagnosis to explain a tragedy, the fear it creates is very real — and often permanent.
Why does the media lead with schizophrenia only when the story involves violence, yet remain silent when it comes to stories of recovery, hope, and humanity?

In this hard-hitting episode, host Rachel Star Withers (who lives with schizophrenia) explores the Lead with Fear phenomenon — the dangerous journalistic trend of linking a diagnosis to a crime before the facts are even in — and why schizophrenia seems to have the worst PR team in the world.

Later in the show, we sit down with two media heavyweights who are using their platforms to overhaul how the world views mental health.:

Janet Yang, an Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning producer and former President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Frank Kosa, an Emmy-nominated documentary filmmaker for National Geographic, the History Channel, and A&E.

Listener Take-A-Ways:

why "paranoid schizophrenia" is an obsolete clinical term that journalists refuse to let go of
the startling statistic that fewer than 20% of news stories about schizophrenia include themes of recovery
practical ways you can hold news outlets accountable and promote stories of hope

Our guest, Frank Kosa, is an award-winning documentary producer-writer-director, and a journalist. He produced National Geographic’s “The Story of God with Morgan Freeman,” wrote the inaugural season of Travel Channel’s hit show “Booze Traveler,” produced the award-winning “The Revolutionary War,” a mini-series for A&E, “Christianity: The Second Millennium” and multiple shows of TV’s most engaging documentary series including “Life Without People,” “The Universe,” and “Game Changers.”

His shows have aired on The Science Channel, The History Channel, Discovery, A&E, TLC, Animal Planet, The Travel Channel, The Weather Channel, Lifetime, Bloomberg TV, HGTV, and National Geographic. His print journalism has appeared in The LA Times, USA Today, Sacramento Bee, The Christian Science Monitor, and numerous magazines. He has also worked for films and TV shows produced by Universal, Warner Bros., & Sony. He is Emmy-nominated, has won a Cable Ace and other awards, and strives to tell stories that deeply connect with audiences.

Our guest, Janet Yang, is an Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning Hollywood producer, former President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and has been named one of the “50 Most Powerful Women in Hollywood” by the Hollywood Reporter. Yang’s extensive film and television credits include “The Joy Luck Club,” “The People vs. Larry Flynt,” “The Weight of Water,” “Shanghai Calling,” “High Crimes,” “Zero Effect,” and “Over the Moon.” Yang began her career by running the first distribution company to market Chinese films into North America. She also brokered the reintroduction of American studio films to the Chinese marketplace after a decades-long hiatus. This, in turn, led to joining Steven Spielberg on the historic production of “Empire of the Sun.” This was followed by long-term partnership with multiple Academy-Award winning writer/director, Oliver Stone.

Our host, Rachel Star Withers, (Link: www.rachelstarlive.com) is an entertainer, international speaker, video producer, and schizophrenic. She has appeared on MTV’s Ridiculousness, TruTV, NBC’s America’s Got Talent, Marvel's Black Panther, TUBI’s #shockfight, Goliath: Playing with Reality, and is the host of the HealthLine podcast “Inside Schizophrenia”. She grew up seeing monsters, hearing people in the walls, and having intense urges to hurt herself.

Rachel creates videos documenting her schizophrenia, ways to manage, and letting others like her know they are not alone and can still live an amazing life. She has created a kid’s mental health comic line, The Adventures of ____. (Learn more at this link: https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Fearless-Unstoppable-Light-Ambitious/dp/B0FHWK4ZHS )

Our cohost, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

He also hosts the twice Webby honored podcast, Inside Bipolar, with Dr. Nicole Washington.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Solo Parenting with Bipolar: Staying Stable as a Single Parent

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Are you living with bipolar and a single parent or managing a household alone? Have you been told things like sleep hygiene (as an example) is a pillar of stability, but your teenager’s late-night schedule and the on-call pressure of solo parenting make that feel impossible?

In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board-certified psychiatrist) respond to a raw, honest listener email that challenges the "nuclear family" advice often given to single parents. They dismantle the crushing weight of "Mom Guilt" and the stigma that suggests a mental health diagnosis disqualifies you from raising healthy kids. Is the ship destined to sink, or are you just holding yourself to a standard that doesn't exist?

Listeners will Learn:

Why striving for perfection is a trap that leads to burnout

If you don't prioritize your health, the whole household suffers

How being real with your children can build a stronger foundation for the future

Listen in to hear why Dr. Nicole believes you—the parent—are the undisputed MVP of your household. This episode is an essential look at modeling self-care for your children, setting "Do Not Disturb" boundaries without the guilt, and realizing that your kids don't need a superhero, they just need a healthy you.

"Bipolar might be wriggling into your brain and attacking something you love -- your skills as a parent -- Don't let it." ~Gabe Howard, Host

Thank you for listening. PLEASE LIKE, SHARE, AND SUBSCRIBE!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Getting to Work with Bipolar: Excel at the Job and Live Better

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

"What jobs are suitable for someone living with bipolar disorder?" It’s a question that floods our inbox, and the answer might surprise you: almost every single one. From high-powered criminal defense attorneys to surgeons and CEOs, people are nailing it in the workforce every day while managing a bipolar diagnosis.

In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (diagnosed with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board-certified psychiatrist) dismantle the "minimum wage myth" to provide a realistic roadmap for re-entering and thriving in the workforce. We explore why your diagnosis isn't a unique disqualifier, but rather a factor to manage -- much like a pilot respects the weather or a surfer respects the ocean.

Listeners Will Learn:

Why almost every line of work remains open even after a diagnosis.
Practical financial and medical rules for your first year back on the job.
How to transition from your couch to a worksite without hitting burnout.
How to distinguish between a bipolar symptom and a normal job struggle.

Failing often isn't a symptom of bipolar disorder; it’s just part of the universal human experience. Whether you’re currently unemployed, struggling with "failure to launch," or looking to switch jobs, this episode provides the baby-step protocol you need to launch your next chapter workwise. It’s time to stop letting stigma decide your paycheck and start respecting your own potential.

"If the only reason you believe you can’t do a specific job is because you have bipolar disorder, I say try. I was surprised at how much success I had despite my diagnosis." ~Gabe Howard, Host

Please like and subscribe -- and share the show with everyone you know so we can grow! Thank you.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Physical Health and Bipolar: How to Live Better and Longer

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0000

Studies suggest people with bipolar disorder die 25 years younger than the general population. It’s a statistic that hits like a "thump to the chest," but is it a death sentence or a wake-up call — and is it even true?

In this episode, host Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board certified psychiatrist) peel back the curtain on the physical toll of living with a serious mental illness. While we spend so much energy managing our minds, we often neglect the “vessel” carrying us through life. From the 50% increased risk of sleep apnea to the increased risk of weight gain and diabetes, the risks are real, but they aren’t inevitable.

We dive deep into why “bipolar adjacent” issues like diet, smoking, and sedentary lifestyles are the true drivers of the shortened lifespan statistic, and how building a rock-solid relationship with a primary care doctor can literally save your life.

Listeners will learn:

how sleep apnea mimics — and triggers — mood changes
why not every physical symptom is “just bipolar”
the truth about medication and your liver
how your lifestyle choices and daily habits can rewrite your health statistics

Stop treating your physical health as an afterthought. Whether it’s vitamin deficiencies mimicking depression or sleep apnea driving mood changes, it’s time to recognize that you have far more control over your outcome than the statistics suggest.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Emotions Are Mistaken for Bipolar Symptoms

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

If everything you do is labeled a symptom of bipolar disorder, do you ever get to be yourself? In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington tackle one of the most frustrating — and rarely discussed — realities of living with bipolar disorder: when regular human behavior gets pathologized by friends, family, and even well-meaning supporters.
Want to watch TV the whole weekend? Suddenly it’s “depression.”
Excited about a new idea or passion? You’re being “grandiose.”
Stumble over your words or get animated in conversation? Sounds like “mania.”
Gabe shares deeply personal stories about having his ideas dismissed, his ambitions questioned, and his successes doubted, not by strangers, but by the people who loved him most. Dr. Nicole explains why loved ones become hypervigilant, how fear and trauma shape their reactions, and where concern crosses the line into harm.

Listen and Learn:

learn how to tell the difference between bipolar symptoms and typical human behavior

understand why loved ones become hyper-alert and how fear drives their reactions

how to have hard conversations without losing your support system

why community and peer support matter when loved ones can’t let go of fear

This episode isn’t about denying bipolar symptoms; it’s about reclaiming your identity beyond the diagnosis. Because people with bipolar disorder deserve full lives, real dreams, and the freedom to be annoying, excited, ambitious, and human — just like everyone else.

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe Howard: I don't think we're allowed to have these thoughts. Let's say that I was a person that did not live with bipolar disorder. And I came up with the pie-in-the-sky idea. The conversation is negative, but it also sort of moves forward. People with bipolar disorder don't get that. We just get shut down immediately, told that this is a symptom of our illness and that we need to cease this line of communication. And so they withdraw all that help, they withdraw all that information, and they leave us to fend for ourselves. Which actually puts us in a worse position.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paranoia in Bipolar: Anxiety vs. Psychosis

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 10:00:00 -0000

Paranoia is one of the most misunderstood symptoms in bipolar disorder — and using the wrong word can delay the right treatment. Using real-life examples, this episode explains how psychosis in bipolar disorder is typically tied to mood episodes, how paranoid delusions form, and why people experiencing them often don’t report symptoms.

In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board certified psychiatrist) break down what paranoia actually is, when it’s actually anxiety or hypervigilance, and when it crosses into psychosis and delusional thinking. They explain why “being paranoid” isn’t a diagnosis and how paranoid delusions fit under the psychosis umbrella.

We answer common questions like:

Is paranoia a stand-alone diagnosis in the DSM-5?
When does healthy suspicion, anxiety, or hypervigilance get mislabeled as paranoia?
Why does psychosis in bipolar disorder usually occur during manic or depressive episodes?
What types of medications are commonly used to treat paranoia-related symptoms?
How can loved ones spot symptoms the person may not recognize?

If you’ve ever wondered whether paranoia is a typical worry, a trauma response, or something more serious, this episode brings clarity to a topic that’s often confusing — and rarely explained well.

Sharing the show with people you know is how we'll grow. Please like, share, and subscribe.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The ‘Inside Bipolar’ Experiment: Why This Wasn’t Supposed to Work

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:05:00 -0000

This episode was never supposed to exist. Mental health “rules” say patients and psychiatrists shouldn’t share power, shouldn’t speak publicly as equals, and definitely shouldn’t build a show together. Yet here we are — over 100 episodes in, winning awards, and recording our first-ever in-person episode.

In this special behind-the-scenes conversation, we pull back the curtain on “Inside Bipolar”: why so many doctors refused to participate, why patient-led advocacy makes professionals uncomfortable, and why influencer culture both helps and harms people living with bipolar disorder. We talk candidly about distrust of psychiatry, accusations of selling out, the rise of misinformation, and why scared people cling to loud voices over evidence. We also go somewhere rarely discussed in mental health media: self-doubt, self-deprecation, and the reality that success with bipolar disorder often looks painfully ordinary.

Listener takeaways

why patient-doctor partnerships are rare — and why they scare both sides
why “hopeful” mental health messaging often misses the mark
how self-doubt and advocacy can exist at the same time
how this podcast changed the way both hosts view mental illness

No toxic positivity. No “inspiration porn.” No pretending recovery is a mountaintop moment. Just two people — one with lived experience, one with medical expertise — talking honestly about what actually helps, what doesn’t, and why this unlikely partnership changed how both of us see mental illness, advocacy, and each other.

Cold Open Transcript:

Dr. Nicole: Which one is the real Gabe? You put yourself down, actually, quite a bit. Do you really have a low opinion of yourself? Like, are you fundamentally like this guy who really thinks, like, I suck, and I just get up every day and put one foot in front of the other one and do the best I can? Or do you have a lot of confidence because you, almost at the same time, have to have a ton of confidence to get in front of the camera and do the speaking and do all the things.

PLEASE Share the show with everyone you know as it's how our community will grow. Happy Listening! :)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bipolar Advocacy 101: From Political Change to Family Boundaries

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0000

Advocacy isn’t yelling, protesting, or going viral — and for people with bipolar disorder, doing it the wrong way can actually make things worse. In this episode, we break down what real, effective advocacy actually looks like, starting where the stakes are highest: your everyday life and expanding to social and political activism — covering everything in between.

From setting boundaries with family members who won’t stop asking about your mental health to advocating calmly (and safely) with doctors, insurance companies, and healthcare systems to presenting in front of politicians, this episode tackles the uncomfortable truth: how you advocate matters just as much as what you’re advocating for.

Listener takeaways

practical ways to advocate with doctors and insurance companies without risking care
the difference between being firm and being perceived as aggressive
why “quiet” advocacy and simply showing up still move the needle
how failed advocacy efforts still lead to real, long-term change

Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, shares hard-earned lessons from decades of lived experience, including how passion can be misread as aggression, why “made-for-TV” advocacy fails in real life, and how preparation beats confrontation every time. Dr. Nicole Washington brings the clinician’s perspective, explaining how advocacy can unintentionally become antagonistic — and how to communicate your needs without risking your care or personal relationships.

If you’ve ever wanted to stand up for yourself — or for the bipolar community — but didn’t know how to do it without backlash, this episode gives you a roadmap.

“If you want to be an advocate, you need to develop a thick skin. Because if every time somebody criticizes a point of view, a part of your life, you lose control? Unfortunately, you're not just somebody who got angry during a debate. No, you're a mentally ill person who doesn't know how to behave in public. . .” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Share the show with the people you know so that this free resource can continue to thrive and grow! Thank you in advance.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From Panic to Peace: Self-Calming Tactics for Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Being told to “calm down” has never calmed anyone down — especially if you are experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder. In this surprisingly funny episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington break down why the world’s most common advice backfires… and what truly helps instead.

Whether you’re spiraling at 2 a.m., overwhelmed in your car, or suddenly flooded with anxiety for no clear reason, the ability to de-escalate yourself is a core skill for managing bipolar disorder. But knowing how to calm down — without shame, judgment, or dismissive clichés — isn’t something most of us were ever taught.

Listener takeaways

how to build your own personalized calm-down toolkit
how naming emotions instantly reduces their intensity
how to challenge spiraling thoughts before they take over
the difference between managing emotions versus invalidating them

So, take a listen as our hosts share practical, stigma-free tools you can start using immediately, from deceptively simple breathing exercises to naming emotions, reframing intrusive thoughts, and building a personalized “calm-down buffet” of strategies that actually work for you.

“And here's another pro tip that shouldn't be as earth-shattering as it is, but: admit it. Just admit that you need to calm down. Admit that you're anxious, agitated, overwhelmed, angry, elevated, whatever. Just admit it. Don't judge it. Practice some radical honesty with yourself and admit that you need to take a beat and that you need a moment. Don't try to deny it. And also don’t assume that it's because you live with bipolar disorder. You're a human with real emotions, but you still need to manage this.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Please follow, subscribe, and share! It's all absolutely free. Help us spread the word. Thank you!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Traveling with Bipolar: Tips That Actually Work

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Traveling is supposed to be fun — but when you live with bipolar disorder, even a short trip can disrupt sleep, routines, and stability. In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington get honest about why vacations can feel overwhelming, how to plan without fear, and the exact safeguards that make travel not just possible, but enjoyable.
From jet lag to family expectations, from “what if I’m not stable in 6 months?” to navigating early recovery setbacks, this conversation gives you practical, nonjudgmental guidance you can use immediately. Whether you’re planning your first overnight away or a bucket list vacation, you’ll walk away with tools to travel confidently, all without sacrificing stability.

Listener takeaways

how travel disrupts routines — and which disruptions matter most
tips for setting realistic expectations and reducing travel anxiety
the difference between “I’m too sick to go” and “I’m just nervous”
how to create a personalized travel routine that supports stability

If you’ve ever wondered, Can I actually travel with bipolar disorder? the answer is yes. And this episode shows you how.

"I have so many stories of me losing my mind out in public and needing to be calmed down and, you know, given water. I have so many stories of getting ready to go to the show, the concert, the play, the, the event, the whatever, and then refusing to leave and ruining it for everybody else. So I don't want anybody to think that this just came naturally. . ." ~Gabe Howard, Host

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Addressing Racial & Ethnic Groups in Bipolar Care: Stigma and Misdiagnosis Exposed

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0000

The mental health system didn’t start out fair — and in many ways, it still isn’t. In this powerful episode, Dr. Nicole Washington sits down with fellow psychiatrist Dr. Leesha Ellis-Cox to unpack the long, painful history that continues to shape the experiences of Black Americans seeking mental health care. From the horrifying “diagnosis” of drapetomania in the 1800s to the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, they trace how mistrust, stigma, and systemic bias became woven into the Black community’s relationship with psychiatry.
But they don’t stop there. Dr. Nicole and Dr. Leesha explore the research showing that Black and Hispanic people are 3 to 4 times more likely to be misdiagnosed with schizophrenia instead of bipolar disorder — a mistake that can derail treatment, worsen symptoms, and put lives at risk.
Listener takeaways

the historical roots of racial disparities in psychiatric diagnosis
why Black Americans are more likely to be misdiagnosed with schizophrenia
how stigma and generational trauma shape attitudes toward treatment
practical steps to find culturally humble, affirming providers

Most importantly, they offer real, actionable advice: how to find culturally affirming care, how to navigate bias in the system, and how Black and other communities of color can break generational silence around mental health. This conversation is validating, eye-opening, and deeply empowering. Listen now!

Our guest, Dr. Leesha Ellis-Cox, affectionately known as Dr. Leesha, is a double board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and completed her general psychiatry residency training, child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship, and community mental health/public psychiatry fellowship at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta. Since 2009, she has lived and worked in Alabama and is the medical director at Central Alabama Wellness, a community mental health center located in metro Birmingham.

Our host, ⁠Gabe Howard⁠, is an award-winning podcast host, author, and sought-after suicide prevention and mental health speaker, but he wouldn’t be any of those things today if he hadn’t been committed to a psychiatric hospital in 2003.Gabe also hosts Healthline's ⁠Inside Mental Health⁠ podcast has appeared in numerous publications, including Bipolar magazine, WebMD, Newsweek, and the Stanford Online Medical Journal. He has appeared on all four major TV networks, ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX. Among his many awards, he is the recipient of Mental Health America’s Norman Guitry Award, received two Webby Honoree acknowledgements, and received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero.”

Gabe wrote the popular book, "⁠Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations⁠," available from Amazon; signed copies are available ⁠directly from the author⁠ with free swag included! To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, ⁠gabehoward.com⁠.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parenthood, Choice, and Bipolar: Reproductive Justice Explain

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:00:00 -0000

People with mental illness, including bipolar disorder, have long been denied the right to make their own reproductive choices. This episode looks at how psychiatry’s history and stigma continue to shape who gets to decide.

Dr. Nicole Washington sits down with mental health advocate Dr. Keris Myrick to unpack the intersection of reproductive justice and mental illness — and how stigma, outdated systems, and silence continue to rob people of autonomy over their bodies and futures. Together, they explore the three pillars of reproductive justice — the right to have a child, to not have a child, and to raise a child in a safe environment — through the lens of psychiatric care.

Listener takeaways:

Learn what a Psychiatric Advance Directive is—and how to create one.
Discover how to start meaningful conversations with your providers about family planning.
Gain insight into how choice, autonomy, and care can coexist in mental health treatment.

Whether you’re living with bipolar disorder, a provider, or an advocate, this conversation will challenge your assumptions, break stigma, and offer new ways to protect choice, dignity, and autonomy for all.

Our guest, Keris Jän Myrick, PhD (ABD), MBA, MS is a nationally recognized advocate, executive, and storyteller whose work has redefined how we understand and reform mental health and substance use systems. Known for her fierce leadership, creativity, and humanity, Keris brings both lived and learned expertise to every space challenging the status quo and building new paths rooted in dignity and rights.

She serves as Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Innovation at Inseparable, where she helps shape mental health policy and practice. Keris also hosts the acclaimed podcast Unapologetically Black Unicorns, co-edits the Lived Experience Inclusion and Leadership column in Psychiatric Services, and serves on the boards of Disability Rights California and the Center for Health Care Strategies. She is an inaugural member of the Global Leadership Exchange (GLE) Lived Experience Council and lives in Los Angeles with her dog, Obi.

Our typical cohost, ⁠Gabe Howard⁠, is an award-winning podcast host, author, and sought-after suicide prevention and mental health speaker, but he wouldn’t be any of those things today if he hadn’t been committed to a psychiatric hospital in 2003.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How to Find Hope When Bipolar Steals It Away

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0000

Life with bipolar disorder often feels like a constant battle, so being told to find hope can seem like a cruel joke. But what if hope isn’t naïve — it’s necessary? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington dive deep into the real, practical power of hope and how to find it even when it feels impossible.

From planning something to look forward to, to saying “yes” to new experiences, they explore small, science-backed ways to keep hope alive. Gabe shares personal stories about concerts, silly dance videos, and even late-night wrestling shows that reignited his optimism, while Dr. Nicole breaks down why hope isn’t just wishful thinking — it’s a key part of recovery.

Listener takeaways:

why hope is more than a feeling — it’s a survival skill.
how planning future events (big or small) boosts mood stability
practical ways to document joyful memories to remember on tough days
the difference between hoping and believing — and why both matter

This is the episode you didn’t know you needed when things feel impossible. Listen now!

“Being intentional about remembering what it felt like to be happy and starting to formulate a plan to get back to it breeds a lot of hope. Because it's always easier to do something that you've already done.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Please recommend this podcast to all your friends! Sharing the show is how we grow. Thank you! :)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fish Oil and Bipolar: Hype or Helpful?

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington unpack what the research actually shows, why supplement quality is inconsistent (and sometimes downright sketchy), and how side effects — even with “natural” products — are very real. In short, they dig into the science, hype, and hope surrounding omega-3 supplements.

Listener takeaways:

why omega-3s may help with certain bipolar symptoms — especially depression
the risks of using supplements as a substitute for prescribed treatment
how to spot high quality fish oil (and avoid bottles full of fillers)
why “natural” doesn’t automatically mean “safe”

Plenty of people in the bipolar community are desperate for alternatives to pharmaceuticals, and fish oil often gets framed as a safer, side-effect-free solution. If you’ve ever wondered whether popping a fish oil capsule could replace your meds — or just help you manage life with bipolar disorder more smoothly — this is the episode you don’t want to miss.

“If it's powerful enough to fight bipolar disorder, it is powerful enough to potentially have interactions. One of the things that I'm always fascinated about in the bipolar community is when we say things like, hey, this thing is so powerful, it will treat bipolar disorder, which we know to be dangerous and damaging, but it also is so safe that it won't cause any side effects or interfere with any other medications or any other organs or anything. It's like it can't be both.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unpacking the Binge Eating Disorder and Bipolar Connection

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0000

What happens when binge eating disorder and bipolar disorder collide? Research shows they co-occur in as many as one in four cases — and yet, many people living with both conditions feel completely alone. In this episode, host Gabe Howard shares his personal journey of living with bipolar disorder and binge eating disorder, including how food was his form of self-medication.
Board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington breaks down the clinical side: what binge eating disorder actually is, how it’s diagnosed, and why treating it alongside bipolar disorder can get “tricky.”

Listeners will learn:

signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder (beyond overeating)
why stability with bipolar disorder often makes binge eating easier to manage

unique treatment challenges — including why the only FDA-approved medication for binge eating disorder may be destabilizing for people living with bipolar disorder

Gabe and Dr. Nicole rip the lid off the shame, secrecy, and stigma surrounding binge eating disorder, especially when it coincides with bipolar disorder. With honesty and compassion, they share practical treatment insights, real hope, and a powerful reminder: You are not alone. Whether you’re having trouble or supporting someone you love, this episode delivers validation, guidance, and the encouragement you need to take the next step toward healing and living your best life.

"I weighed over 550 pounds and I knew that I was unhealthy. But I didn't really see binge eating disorder as a mental health problem because bipolar disorder sucked all the oxygen out of the room. And I was lucky, I did go from over 550 pounds down to the 200 that I weigh now, because I had the right interventions. I treated both bipolar disorder and binge eating disorder. But I imagine that many listeners, they don't realize the connection between these two." ~Gabe Howard, Host

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hypochondria (aka Illness Anxiety Disorder) in Bipolar Disorder Examined

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0000

What happens when bipolar disorder collides with hypochondria? Is it even possible for someone to have both conditions? In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a psychiatrist) tackle the complex overlap between bipolar disorder and what’s often called hypochondria but is now known as illness anxiety disorder.
Together, they explore the confusion that comes when symptoms of panic, mania, or depression mimic physical health conditions — and why people with bipolar disorder often have trouble being taken seriously in medical settings. From emergency room misdiagnoses to the fear of “crying wolf” during a health scare, our hosts unpack the stigma and frustration many face when advocating for their physical health.
Key takeaways

the difference between illness anxiety disorder (hypochondria) and bipolar symptoms
why people with mental illness are often dismissed in healthcare
how therapy can help reduce overwhelming health fears

You’ll also hear practical advice on how to tell the difference between anxiety and a medical emergency, the importance of knowing your symptom patterns, and why having a consistent primary care doctor is crucial. Listen now!

"It matters whether you have hypochondria or whether mania is driving it, because of your next steps. If you truly have hypochondria, if you really are a hypochondriac, you are worried about being sick regardless of your mood state. So whether you're happy, sad, manic, whatever, this hypochondria persists. If you're only ultra focused on illness in a manic state or a grandiosity state, or with some specific symptom of bipolar disorder. Then it's just the bipolar disorder manifesting itself." ~Gabe Howard, Host

Please share the show with everyone you know!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beyond Pills: Proven, Science-Based Approaches to Bipolar Management

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0000

What if managing bipolar disorder wasn’t just about medication? Too often, conversations around bipolar treatment stop at the pharmacy counter. But what about therapy that helps you process trauma? What about learning your triggers before a full-blown episode hits? What about diet, exercise, creativity, and community support? These are not extras — they’re essential.
In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board certified psychiatrist) dive deep into science-backed strategies for managing bipolar disorder beyond medication. From therapy to sleep hygiene to mindfulness medications, they explore the powerful “other pieces of the puzzle” that can help stabilize moods and improve daily life.

Key Takeaways

how being “med compliant” isn’t the be-all and end-all of bipolar management
why therapy, triggers, and sleep tracking can be critical in maintaining stability
how diet, exercise, and creativity can support long-term mental health
practical steps to build (and lean on) a strong, balanced support system

If you’ve ever asked, “What else can help manage bipolar disorder besides being ‘med compliant’?”— this episode has the answers.

“People aren't discussing them enough. When it comes to managing bipolar disorder, it's not one big thing that you do well. It's many little things. And this episode, especially the research for it, has really shown me that doing a lot of little things well often garners really big results.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Firing Your Mental Health Provider: Ending Gracefully, Safely, and Professionally

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Do you feel trapped in a therapy or psychiatry relationship that feels stagnant, unsettling, or just plain wrong? This episode pulls no punches as hosts Gabe Howard — who lives with bipolar disorder — and Dr. Nicole Washington — a board certified psychiatrist — tackle the uncomfortable question most people think about but rarely voice: “How, and when, is it time to part ways with your mental health professional?"

This direct and practical conversation cuts through the guilt, the logistics, and the myths about “ghosting” therapists, psychiatrists, and counselors. Dr. Nicole explains when walking away is OK, when to be careful (especially with meds), and why honest communication can actually be beneficial to you as the patient. Gabe brings the patient perspective — what it feels like to doubt care, to fear being “difficult,” and some tips to tell if the problem is the professional, your stage in recovery, or just a bad fit.

Takeaways

You don’t have to explain, but honest conversation is usually the healthier choice.
Plan transitions first: “Ghosting” can create dangerous gaps in your care.
Ask for records and time your switch to minimize treatment disruption.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you owe the professional an explanation, how to keep medication continuity, or what to ask on day one to avoid a mismatch later — this episode is for you. Expect blunt truth and step-by-step strategies to move on responsibly so your recovery doesn’t skip a beat.

Got topic ideas or questions? Hit us up at show@psychcentral.com!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do You Feel Taken Advantage Of Due to Bipolar?

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Do you feel people are manipulating or using you because of your bipolar disorder diagnosis? If that question hits a nerve, this podcast episode is for you. When a listener emailed us because they felt they were being exploited due to their diagnosis, hosts Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a licensed psychiatrist) dove headfirst into a frank conversation about loneliness, control, and the messy reality of potentially unequal relationships.

Gabe shares personal stories of how a friend used his desire for connection to get what they wanted — free tickets, emotional labor, and more — while giving little in return. Dr. Nicole helps unpack how mental illness can cloud your ability to spot toxic dynamics until it's too late. Together, they explore what it really means to set boundaries, recognize red flags, and take your power back without beating yourself up for what you allowed in the past.

You’ll learn how to rebuild your life with real friends, regain your self-worth, and protect your peace — one boundary at a time. If you've ever looked around and wondered, "Why do I feel like I'm the only one giving?" and wondered if you are being taken advantage of due to a bipolar diagnosis — listen now.

“The real reality is I've lost friends for all kinds of reasons. Because I've switched jobs, because I've moved, because I'm no longer in high school, because I've outgrown them. The number one reason, honestly, is because I don't have children. And many of my friends went on to have kids. When you live with bipolar disorder, you tend to think that the only reason that you lose people is because of bipolar disorder. And I don't think that serves us. I think maybe a better way to look at it is, you know, when you were sick, these were your friends. But as you reached recovery, as you got better, you made different friends because your situation changed. And I think that's much healthier than saying, well, bipolar disorder cost me all my friends.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are available directly from the author with free swag included!
Among his many accolades, Gabe received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero,” and had the distinct honor of speaking at Oxford University in England.

To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Can’t You See It? Understanding 'Lack of Insight' in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0000

You can be living in a storm and swear it’s a sunny day. That’s what it’s like when insight slips away. In this episode, Dr. Nicole (board certified psychiatrist) and Kit Wallis (lives with schizoaffective disorder) explore why people with serious mental illness, like bipolar disorder, often can’t see their own symptoms — even when the evidence is undeniable. Dr. Nicole unpacks the science behind lack of insight and explains how it isn’t all-or-nothing. Insight flickers, evolves, and sometimes disappears just when you need it most.

From Kit’s early experiences hearing voices (and assuming they were just a creative mind) to the manic episodes that shattered her reality, you’ll hear firsthand how denial and confusion can coexist. Discover why antipsychotic medications didn’t convince Kit the voices weren’t real, why manic highs feel too good to question, and why telling someone “you’re sick” rarely makes them believe it.

If you’ve questioned why it’s so hard to see bipolar symptoms in yourself or a loved one, this conversation will open your eyes to the hidden forces behind denial — and acceptance.

Cold Open Transcript:

Kit Wallis: It took me years to figure out I was hallucinating. And the voices hated it whenever I did that. They were like, don’t do that, don’t research us, don’t do that. Looking back on it, it doesn’t make sense, but in the moment, it made perfect sense to me. It’s kind of wild to me that I can go through all this effort to really figure out what is going on and I still have moments where it just completely slips my mind. It still slips my mind when it is happening most of the time.

We have a guest host for this episode (Don’t worry, Gabe Howard will be back!):

Our guest host, Kit Wallis, who goes by SchizoKitzo, is a content creator who advocates for schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. She uses long-form videos on her YouTube channel and short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Her content centers around her personal experience with schizoaffective disorder and often includes deep dives into research topics regarding mental health.

Kit was diagnosed with the bipolar type of schizoaffective disorder in late 2020 and has struggled with symptoms since she was in middle school. Schizoaffective disorder is a mental health condition where someone experiences symptoms of schizophrenia--such as delusions and hallucinations--but also symptoms of a mood disorder--either major depression or, in Kit's case, bipolar. Realizing there was a lack of schizoaffective advocates, she decided to start her SchizoKitzo project to raise awareness for this complex condition.

The mission of SchizoKitzo is to raise awareness of schizoaffective disorder and all of its aspects, from the mood side to the psychotic side. Kit works to bridge the gap between life and science so she can help break the stigma around mental health.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Diagnosis or Managing for Years? Learn to Live Well with Bipolar (Part 2 of 2)

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0000

You’ve received a new diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Now it’s time to sharpen your survival toolkit. In part two of this essential series, Gabe Howard (Lived Experience) and Dr. Nicole Washington (Board Certified Psychiatrist) dive straight into the signals you can’t afford to miss: the subtle shifts in sleep, mood, and behavior that whisper “episode incoming.” Learn why tracking your patterns today becomes your superpower tomorrow, and how a simple “chain analysis” can turn hindsight into foresight.

With candid humor, real‑world examples (yes, Taco Bell may factor in), and expert guidance, this episode transforms “How did I miss that?” into “I can see it coming—and I’m ready.” Press play and empower yourself with the roadmap that turns panic into proactive action. (Link to the first episode: New Diagnosis? All the Basics Unlocked (Part 1 of 2))

Cold Open Transcript:

Dr. Nicole You have to be honest with us about everything, including, as Gabe so eloquently put it, getting your freak on.

Gabe: Getting your freak on. Getting your freak on.

Dr. Nicole: You gotta tell us.

Gabe: It's the number one reason that people stop taking their meds.

Dr. Nicole: Yes, yes, yes.

Gabe: And they always report to me I just stopped taking my medicine because I couldn't get an erection. Because my libido was down. You know, the sex didn't feel as good. I couldn't achieve orgasm. So I just

Dr. Nicole: Yeah.

Gabe: Stopped taking my medicine. And I don't want to tell my Dr. Nicole that.

Dr. Nicole: Yeah. Because she's an old lady. Because she's

Gabe: Yeah.

Dr. Nicole: An old lady. She's the same age as my mom. I can't talk to her about sex.

Gabe: Yeah, yeah. I hear that all the time. All the time. Number one reason.

To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Bipolar Diagnosis? All the Basics Unlocked (Part 1 of 2)

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Imagine hearing, “You have bipolar disorder,” and feeling the ground drop out from under you. That moment of shock and confusion is the very reason we made this episode. Join Gabe Howard (lived experience) and Dr. Nicole Washington (board certified psychiatrist) as they transform that initial overwhelm into a powerful first step.

In this episode, you’ll discover the essential truths no one tells you when you get a new diagnosis: why bipolar is a lifelong journey (yes, it’s more like diabetes than a short-term infection), how to sort gold standard science from Reddit rumors, and why medications — while not magic — can be game‑changers when wielded wisely. Whether you’re fresh off your diagnosis or need a foundational refresher, press play and arm yourself with the knowledge, skills, and community wisdom that can turn this new chapter into your strongest one yet.

“When it comes to bipolar disorder, I caution you against answer shopping. It only hurts you when you believe incorrect information.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Breaking Stigma in Women’s Mental Health with Kit Wallis

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0000

In this female-centric episode, board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington welcomes mental health advocate Kit Wallis, who lives with schizoaffective disorder, for a fearless “girl power” takeover. Kit shares raw stories of being dismissed, sexualized, and romanticized simply for being a woman with a serious mental health diagnosis — and how one doctor’s simple question, “What is it like for you?” completely changed her care.

Together, they pull back the curtain on the “crazy girl” trope, explore why stability truly is the new sexy, and celebrate the radical act of being heard. You’ll learn how gender bias sneaks into clinical decisions — from medication adjustments to life-altering procedures — and discover practical tools for reclaiming agency: setting boundaries, understanding transference in therapy, and advocating for respectful, person-centered care. Tune in and join Dr. Nicole and Kit for an uplifting, eye-opening discussion, because when women speak, real change happens.

We have a guest host for this episode (Don’t worry, Gabe Howard will be back!)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Bipolar Hack I Ignored for Years: Our Host’s Personal Walking Story

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0000

What if a secret weapon in managing bipolar disorder isn’t a new medication or a breakthrough therapy — but a brisk 20-minute walk? In this refreshingly honest and hilariously relatable episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington take on the least talked about pillar of bipolar stability: lifestyle management, and more specifically, exercise.

During a recent bout of depression, Gabe’s doctor “tricked” him into walking daily by describing it like a miracle pill. Spoiler alert: It kind of was. At first, Gabe thought the idea sounded like a total scam — and he didn’t even own sneakers. (His first walks were in Doc Martens.) But over the past year, daily walks have become part of his recovery.

In this episode, Gabe opens up about what finally got him moving, why he stuck with it, and how something so simple ended up making a real difference. Dr. Nicole, a self-proclaimed workout hater, shares why she still encourages her patients — and herself — to move, even when it’s the last thing they want to do. From the science behind short daily walks to the mental health benefits for people managing bipolar disorder, Gabe opens up about what finally got him moving, how it changed his mindset, and why the smallest step forward can sometimes shift everything.

"When somebody first mentioned going for a walk for bipolar disorder I thought what is this new age garbage? Like, I live with a serious and persistent mental illness. Going for a walk is not going to do anything. But I gotta tell you, I was wrong. Look, I’m not saying that it cures bipolar disorder. But I can say that it helps manage my moods." ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frozen Truths: Catatonia in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 19 May 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Imagine being fully awake, yet your body refuses to respond — a terrifying state where time seems to warp as you stand paralyzed. In this riveting episode, we dive deep into the elusive world of catatonia as it intersects with bipolar disorder.

Drawing from special guest host Kit Wallis’s (SchizoKitzo’s) firsthand experiences, including moments of being physically “frozen” while fully aware, this episode unpacks the surprising complexities behind catatonia. Listeners will gain a clear and compassionate understanding of the three distinct presentations as host Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, breaks down the symptoms and dispels common misconceptions, while Kit shares intimate details of how these episodes have disrupted her life and ultimately guided her toward better management of her mental health.

Whether you are directly affected by bipolar disorder or seeking a deeper insight into its hidden facets, this discussion promises to be an enlightening journey into one of the most misunderstood aspects of the condition.

We have a guest host for this episode (Don’t worry, Gabe Howard will be back!):

Kit Wallis, who goes by SchizoKitzo, is a content creator who advocates for schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. She uses long-form videos on her YouTube channel and short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Her content centers around her personal experience with schizoaffective disorder and often includes deep dives into research topics regarding mental health.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Never Surrender! Staying Committed to Bipolar Treatment

Mon, 05 May 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Have you ever felt the crushing weight of doubt when every day is a battle with your own mind? In this episode, Gabe (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole (a board certified psychiatrist) cut through the BS and get real about staying on track with bipolar treatment. They dive into moments when giving up seems like the easier option and Gabe recalls a painful wake-up call from a friend who wasn’t holding back their anger — a moment that ignited a drive to prove everyone wrong.

Dr. Nicole breaks down why even the smallest victories, like getting out of bed or planning a future getaway, can mean everything. With no sugarcoating, they explore the raw truth behind why fighting isn’t just for the dark days — it’s a constant, everyday challenge. This episode is for anyone who’s ever wondered how to find the strength to keep moving forward when life feels overwhelming.

“I did not want to lay down and die. My core philosophical values and belief systems is that this is all there is. Whatever I do with it, that's my life. That will be how I'm remembered. That is what people will see. Whatever joy or suffering or pain or happiness or success or laughter or connections, this is all there is. And if I just sit at home and do nothing, then I will just be remembered as the guy who sat at home and did nothing. And I don't want to be remembered that way.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Among his many accolades, Gabe received an official resolution from the Governor of Ohio naming him an “Everyday Hero,” and had the distinct honor of speaking at Oxford University in England.

To learn more about Gabe, or to book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Schizoaffective & Bipolar: What’s the Connection?

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Why is schizoaffective disorder so often overlooked — even by mental health professionals — and how does it relate to bipolar disorder? In this episode, Dr. Nicole Washington sits down with guest host Kit Wallis (aka SchizoKitzo) to discuss Kit’s life managing schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type.

Kit shares her decade-long journey through multiple diagnoses, from cyclothymia to bipolar I, before finally receiving the correct diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder. Kit explains why this diagnosis finally made sense and how she educated herself on her disorder.

If you’ve ever wondered about the blurry lines between bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder — or just want to hear a powerful story of self-advocacy — this episode is for you.

Cold Open Transcript:

Dr. Nicole: Some people will tell me that their voices are not all bad, and they don't necessarily want to get rid of them.

Kit: Oh, man. That's a can of worms. That is a can of worms. When I was telling my psychiatrist that I was experiencing religious delusions, and I went on antipsychotics to get rid of the god who hated me, but not necessarily for the voices who helped me so much. I ended up losing the others and I think about the voices that I don’t hear anymore all the time because I miss them that much.

We have a guest host (Don't worry, Gabe Howard will be back!) for this episode:

Our host, Kit Wallis, who goes by SchizoKitzo, is a content creator who advocates for schizoaffective and bipolar disorders. She uses long-form videos on her YouTube channel and short-form content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Her content centers around her personal experience with schizoaffective disorder and often includes deep dives into research topics regarding mental health.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

OCD & Bipolar: Unraveling Potential Intersections

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Ever wonder what happens when two complex mental health conditions collide? In this episode, host Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington, peel back the layers of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and bipolar disorder, challenging the clichés and misconceptions that have long overshadowed these conditions.

Using humor, candor, and expert insight, they share personal anecdotes and surprising research that illuminate the hidden battles behind intrusive thoughts, relentless rituals, and shifting moods. This conversation dives deep into how misinterpreting symptoms can lead to confusion and missed diagnoses — making it a must listen for anyone seeking clarity on the comorbidity of these two conditions.

Whether you’re navigating these challenges yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode invites you to rethink what you know about OCD and bipolar disorder.

“It's very difficult to have an episode about OCD and bipolar disorder because they're two unique illnesses that present in very unique ways. And I'm not sure what it looks like when they blend together. You may or may not have it. The things that you're describing as OCD may very well just be personality traits or just part of bipolar disorder. So I want to ask you very specifically, is there anything unique about OCD and bipolar disorder put together that our audience needs to know that our listeners should be aware of or concerned about?”~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Trauma and Bipolar Collide

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Many people with bipolar disorder experience trauma — either from external events or even from the disorder itself. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the deep waters of managing trauma with bipolar disorder.

They cover the differences between trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), debunking common misconceptions. They explore how experiences like suicidal episodes, hospitalization, job loss, and manic behavior can leave lasting emotional scars and why it’s important to manage them.

Most importantly, they discuss how to validate your experiences, communicate with loved ones and medical professionals, and take steps toward healing. If you've ever felt dismissed or struggled to explain how bipolar-related trauma affects you, this episode is a must listen.

"People with bipolar disorder have trauma because of it. So much of this is driven from the fact that people aren't taken seriously. I want to say, as a person living with bipolar disorder, it is real. Bipolar disorder caused you trauma. You are traumatized because of your experiences with bipolar disorder." ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Struggles of Low Sex Drive (Hyposexuality) in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Bipolar doesn’t just impact mood — it can take a toll on your sex drive, too. In this frank conversation, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, break down how both depression and mania affect libido, the frustration of losing sexual desire, and the pressures of maintaining intimacy in relationships.

They cover why some people care deeply about their loss of sexual desire while others barely notice and seem not to mind. How do medication side effects and the emotional weight of bipolar disorder complicate sex and intimacy? And what about the expectations partners place on each other?

This episode tackles it all — including the unspoken struggles of men and women navigating sex while managing mental health and the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Whether you're personally affected or supporting a loved one, this episode offers crucial insights into an often overlooked topic.

"When it gets right down to it, hyposexuality is simple. Your libido is lowered and you don't know why. You need to follow this up. I know people are listening to this because bipolar disorder is what they feel is causing their issue." ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ECT: Medical Torture or Effective Treatment? (Electroconvulsive Therapy)

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0000

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) often conjures extreme images — either as a medieval torture method or a miraculous cure. But what’s the reality? Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive deep into the facts, debunking myths and exploring the nuances of ECT as a treatment for bipolar disorder.

In this episode, they discuss the effectiveness of ECT, why it’s not a first-line treatment, and the barriers patients face, from logistical challenges to fears about memory loss. With candid insights and personal reflections, they tackle tough questions: Is ECT worth it? What are the real risks? How does it compare to medication? Whether you're curious, skeptical, or considering ECT for yourself or a loved one, this episode offers a grounded perspective on a complex, life-changing therapy. Don’t miss this enlightening and thought-provoking discussion.

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe: Controversy aside, I don't understand how zapping somebody's brain makes them better. It just doesn't make any sense. Are electrical currents magic? Do they have some sort of medicinal capabilities?

Dr. Nicole: No, [Laughter]. Well, no. Gabe, electro-currents are not magical. But the seizure that they induce is what can be valuable to the person with the disorder.

Gabe: So the electrical shock stimulates the seizure. And the…

Dr. Nicole: Yes.

Gabe: Seizure is where the treatment comes in

Dr. Nicole: The seizure is the treatment. The shock is just how we get there.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unpacking Bipolar Rage: What’s Real and What’s Not

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Does "bipolar rage" exist, or is it a misunderstood concept? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, tackle bipolar rage and discuss why it’s not a clinical symptom of bipolar disorder.

They explore the differences between anger, agitation, and rage, offering insights for those with bipolar disorder and their loved ones. Learn why violent outbursts can't always be attributed to bipolar disorder, and why personal accountability matters.

This episode also empowers loved ones to prioritize their safety and set boundaries if they feel threatened, whether the behavior stems from bipolar disorder or something else. With practical advice, myth-busting facts, and a touch of tough love, this conversation offers clarity and actionable steps for managing tough emotions. Hit play to uncover the truth and start making meaningful changes today!

“The best time to have a fire drill is when there is no fire. Don’t try to have a fire drill after the house is on fire. So many people try to work out how to prevent rage issues or arguments in the middle of arguments. Now is the time to do it. Not during, but before it happens.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ADHD and Bipolar: Untangling the Overlap

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

ADHD and bipolar disorder often share symptoms, but are they truly co-occurring conditions or just two sides of the same coin? Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington as they tackle one of the most perplexing topics in mental health. They dive into how these diagnoses overlap, how doctors differentiate between them, and why ADHD might sometimes be over diagnosed.

Discover the challenges of treating ADHD in someone with bipolar disorder and why the right diagnosis matters for effective treatment. With engaging analogies and personal insights, this episode explores the fine line between labeling symptoms and focusing on wellness. If you or a loved one are navigating ADHD, bipolar disorder, or both, this is a must-listen conversation.

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe: Hey, you're saying that I have bipolar disorder, but couldn't this just be ADHD or ADHD symptoms? You're saying that I have mania, but isn't that just hyperactivity? You're saying that I'm having racing thoughts, but isn't that just lack of ability to focus?

Dr. Nicole: Yeah, yeah.

Gabe: And they’re like, well, wait a minute. I just have ADHD. What’s this bipolar stuff that’s coming up?

Dr. Nicole: It is possible that those symptoms that look like ADHD could be untreated mood symptoms.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Friends Wish Mania Would Return

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Have you ever heard someone say they miss the “old you” — the life of the party, the one who could stay out all night and keep everyone entertained? For people with bipolar disorder, those “good old days” were often fueled by mania, bringing hidden chaos, risk, and pain. In this candid episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into why some friends and family romanticize manic episodes, ignoring the struggles beneath the surface.

They unpack the emotional toll of hearing, “You used to be so much fun,” and explore how to set boundaries, educate others, and navigate feelings of nostalgia. Whether you're managing bipolar disorder or supporting someone, this episode offers invaluable insights into maintaining stability while addressing the pressures of the past. Tune in to uncover the truth behind the “good old days” and why the “new you” deserves to be celebrated.

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe: If somebody's like, I miss the good old days. I miss your mania. I miss how you used to be.

Dr. Nicole: Yes.

Gabe: You know, obviously I'm going to cut you off, you ignorant fool, is something you can say back.

Dr. Nicole: [Laughter] Not if you want them in your life. I mean, if you're ready to cut it off, say what you need to say and walk away, in very dramatic fashion. But if this is a relationship that you want to salvage, I think then you have to be willing to put up a little bit of vulnerability, as hard as that may be.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How to Talk with Your Psychiatrist: Bridging the Communication Gap

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Does your psychiatrist really understand what you're going through? Navigating conversations with your psychiatrist and other professionals helping you manage your mental health can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle the communication disconnect between patients and mental health professionals. Learn why vague terms like "nervous breakdown" can hinder your treatment and how to provide the specific details your doctor needs to help you effectively.

They discuss the importance of sharing family mental health history, breaking down symptoms, and offering clear examples — even if you don’t know clinical terms. Packed with practical advice, this conversation will empower you to self-advocate, build stronger doctor-patient relationships, and get the care you deserve. Whether you're living with bipolar disorder or another mental health condition, this episode is an essential guide to speaking the same language as your healthcare professionals. Tune in and take the first step toward a stronger partnership with your psychiatrist and clearer, more effective communication!

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe: Although I imagine from your vantage point, Dr. Nicole not annoying your psychiatrist is probably a pretty damn good reason. [Laughter]

Dr. Nicole: [Laughter] I mean, annoy is a strong word. I don't know if it annoys me.

Gabe: Fair.

Dr. Nicole: I don't know that I'm annoyed when people come in not knowing these things or not being able to communicate these things. It just lets me know that I have a lot of work to do, that I have to be the one to do that education that was missed somewhere along the way.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please see the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Love or Mania? Understanding the Differences with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Love can be exhilarating, but for people with bipolar disorder, it can sometimes blur the lines between infatuation and mania. In this candid episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the complexities of new romance through the lens of bipolar disorder.

How can you tell if it’s true love, fleeting infatuation, or a symptom of mania? From grandiose declarations to the red flags of unhealthy expectations, they discuss how bipolar symptoms can amplify the highs and lows of relationships. They also explore how age, life experiences, and emotional milestones shape how we approach love.

Whether you’re navigating your own relationships or supporting someone with bipolar disorder, this episode offers relatable insights and practical advice to help you find clarity.

“Grand love gestures are absolutely my jam. And I know the world is filled with people who love romance. So I don’t want anybody to hear that all types of grand gestures and falling in love and soulmates are bad. But, if you are all consumed by that grand gesture and you can’t figure out anything else but to do that right now, then it could be mania.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Doomscrolling and Bipolar: How to Break Free

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Doomscrolling can be especially harmful for people with bipolar disorder, amplifying mood changes and fueling anxiety or depression. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the dark world of doomscrolling and why it’s particularly damaging for people living with bipolar disorder.

They explore why doomscrolling feels addictive and how it impacts your mental health. You'll learn actionable tips to curb this habit, including setting boundaries with technology, creating healthier routines, and finding alternative ways to stay informed. This conversation offers practical solutions tailored to life with bipolar disorder, helping you take back your time and mental well-being. Hit play to learn how to reclaim your time and happiness!

“We have in our hands a computer that's capable of having family photos, family videos. You know, aim it at your children, aim it at your dog, aim it at your cat. Aim it at your best friend. Have them sing you a little song. Whatever it takes. Just find something that replaces the doomscrolling. Because I really believe that people are listening to this episode because they know they're doing it, and they know it's not making them better, and they don't know why they're doing it and they don't know how to stop.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit our official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Hypomania Controllable? Myths, Realities, and Risks

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Is hypomania something you can use to your advantage, or is that a dangerous game to try? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, take a deep dive into the nuances of hypomania, its diagnostic criteria, and the widespread belief that it can be harnessed for productivity.

They explore why some people may mistake elevated moods for hypomania, the risks of trying to "ride the lightning," and how support systems and self-awareness play crucial roles in managing this symptom. Whether you're seeking clarity on hypomania or practical advice for managing it, this episode offers thought-provoking insights and actionable takeaways.

"To point out that when we talk about managing hypomania, we first must make sure you are truly hypomanic. And I don't know anybody who is productive after four days of lack of sleep or four days of not being able to calm down, rest, think straight. But there's always this advice on how to harness hypomania and turn it into a $1 million business. Which also, not for nothing, sounds a little hypomanic to me." ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bipolar Relapse: Personal Journey of Warning Signs, Support, and Recovery

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

What happens when someone with bipolar disorder relapses after years of stability? In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Nicole Washington interviews Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, about his recent mood episode and relapse. Together, they uncover the subtle warning signs Gabe overlooked, the crucial role loved ones—and even strangers—played in recognizing the episode, and the surprising strategies that helped him regain stability.

From grappling with medication changes to discovering the therapeutic power of a daily walk, Gabe shares raw insights about living with bipolar disorder. Whether you're managing your own mental health, supporting someone you love, or simply curious about the realities of navigating a mood disorder, this episode offers valuable lessons and a message of hope: Recovery is always possible, even after setbacks.

“The number one thing that I wish that people wouldn't have said to me is, oh, you'll get through this because you've always gotten through it before. No matter how many times you've been through this, this does not guarantee success. That is a stupid thing to say. All of the people who I was in their thoughts and prayers. It's like, I know that's a nice thing, but I could really use actual help. Actual effort, labor, time, love. And you're just like, hey, I'm thinking of you.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Understanding Cyclothymia and Exploring ‘Bipolar Tendencies’

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Confused about what medically constitutes “bipolar tendencies” or “bipolar adjacent symptoms”? Do you want to understand more about the diagnosis of cyclothymia? You're not alone! In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, tackle the murky waters of “not quite bipolar, but kind of.”

They cover what cyclothymia is and how it differs from bipolar I and II. Dr. Nicole breaks down the DSM criteria, the importance of proper diagnosis, and the challenges of identifying subtle mood patterns. Gabe shares relatable analogies to clarify these complex conditions.

Whether you’re a patient, loved one, or just curious about mental health, this episode helps demystify the labels, clear up misconceptions, and highlight the path to better understanding and treatment. Tune in for an insightful conversation on bipolar disorder that might just answer your lingering questions.

“Because I understand that there's a world of difference between schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. When it comes to bipolar disorder and cyclothymia, it sounds like they're much, much closer. But I think it's still probably good advice that your mileage may vary, and you need to take everything that you hear with a grain of salt. Because it may or may not apply to you.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Managing Cluttered, Racing, and Disordered Thoughts

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Do cluttered, racing, or disordered thoughts disrupt your daily life? Do you understand the differences between them? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, unravel what these terms mean, how they differ, and discuss why they’re not exclusive to bipolar disorder. Using relatable analogies and personal insights, they explore the profound impact these thoughts have on mental well-being.

Listen to learn actionable tips to manage overwhelming thought patterns, from organizing your mental "papers" to differentiating between anxiety and bipolar-related symptoms. Whether you’re seeking clarity for yourself or a loved one, this candid conversation offers practical advice and compassion for navigating the chaos of an overactive mind.

“If you know that, okay, when I have these thoughts, there are certain things I typically like to do to help me manage them. I listen to music. I take a bath, I blow bubbles, I color dog coloring books. I jump up and down, I scream in a pillow, whatever that is for you. You know what? Those things are for you. But then you also are aware enough to know that those things don't always work.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Turning Stress into Strength: Bipolar Management Strategies

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Stress-free living is a myth, but stress-proofing your life? That’s a game-changer. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, share practical strategies to build a "foundation" strong enough to handle the stress that comes with managing bipolar disorder.

Whether it’s navigating late-night anxiety or managing specific bipolar symptoms, this episode provides actionable steps to take control. Discover how radical acceptance and small, tailored changes can help you feel more in charge of your mental health.

“What creates just an unimaginable amount of stress for people with bipolar disorder is this ‘I’ve read your mind, I’ve decided it is true, and I’m going to react to it’ mentality. It doesn’t serve us and we need to find better coping skills.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thriving at Work with Bipolar: Handling Symptoms and Setting Boundaries

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Balancing a career while managing bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms like anxiety, depression, or hypomania strike during work hours. What do you do when you’re at your desk and suddenly feel frozen or out of control?

In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, share actionable tips to help you maintain focus and manage symptoms without jeopardizing your job. They dive into setting boundaries with co-workers, managing email overload, and creating routines that protect your mental health.

Whether it’s using bathroom breaks as a reset, utilizing email autoresponders, or breaking free from the “always on” work culture, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you succeed. If you’ve ever felt stuck managing your bipolar disorder at work, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for!

“I really want people with bipolar disorder to know that there are millions of people with bipolar disorder working jobs, really high-end jobs. They're managing it. They're figuring it out. They're putting in the work. They're finding the routines. They're finding the perfect scenario. They're reframing things. They're doing everything that they can to make it work. And they're just out there and we don't see them.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Treatment-Resistant Bipolar: Myth, Misunderstanding, or Medical Fact?

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Is treatment-resistant bipolar disorder a real diagnosis, just a concept, or entirely made up? It may surprise you, but depending on your perspective, an argument can be made for all three. Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, as they demystify what “treatment-resistant” bipolar disorder means.

This candid conversation unpacks whether this label is in the DSM, what qualifies as an adequate trial of medication, and why the term can feel so daunting. Dr. Nicole reveals how the concept is rooted in treatment response — not symptom severity — and why patience and persistence are critical to finding stability.

Gabe shares his personal journey of recovery, proving that treatment resistance doesn’t mean hopelessness. If you've ever felt frustrated with your treatment progress or questioned why recovery takes so long, this episode will give you clarity, hope, and a fresh perspective. Don't let this label confuse you — tune in to understand the truth behind the term.

“As we talk about treatment-resistant bipolar disorder, I want people to know that it doesn't mean meds won't work for you. And in fact, I want to give you a little challenge. There are over 250 available psychiatric medications to treat bipolar disorder. The average person with bipolar disorder is taking three medications. Some people more, 4 or 5. But using the 250 available medications, the average cocktail of three, that's over 2.5 million combinations before you can say that it's not going to work for you.” ~Gabe Howard

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Bipolar Treatment Is Refused: What Can Loved Ones Do?

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0000

When someone with bipolar disorder refuses treatment, it can leave loved ones feeling helpless and overwhelmed. How can you support them without enabling their denial? In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington offer actionable advice for navigating this emotional minefield. Learn how to foster meaningful conversations, set healthy boundaries, and take care of your well-being while encouraging them toward treatment. This is a must listen for anyone wishing to help a loved one with bipolar disorder.

“They're ultra focused on their sick family member. I understand that thinking, but I want to just rip the band-aid off. If you are not paying attention to your own mental health, if you are not practicing self-care and you are not getting the mental health care you need, that is also a very large problem. You need to put your own oxygen mask on first before you are in a position to help your loved one.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Keto for Bipolar: Cure or Craze?

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Can following a keto diet help people with bipolar disorder reduce or even eliminate medication? While keto is often promoted as a potential game-changer for mental health, there’s a crucial question: Can it really help manage bipolar symptoms?

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Washington shares insights from clinical experience, balancing keto’s possible benefits against the dangers of going off medication. Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar, raises concerns about how fad diets can lead people to potentially harmful decisions, while Dr. Nicole explains what science currently says about keto’s effects on the brain.

Together, they debunk myths and discuss how to safely consider diet changes without jeopardizing stability. Perfect for anyone curious about diet trends, mental health, and the complex intersection between the two. Listen now!

“I have followed a keto diet. It is hard. If you really are saying, I want to commit, you need to do your research. You need to learn about macros and what a keto diet is, and how many grams of protein should you be taking in a day? How many grams of fat? What kinds of fats? How many grams of carbs should you limit yourself to? Are you going to intermittent fast with your keto? Like, there's so many parts to this, know what you're getting yourself into.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beyond Spa Days: Self-Care and the 8 Dimensions of Wellness

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Self-care for bipolar disorder is more than relaxation — it's about nurturing every part of your life, from physical health to emotional resilience. This episode dives deep into the “8 Dimensions of Wellness,” providing useful, practical ways to meet your unique needs and stay balanced. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at self-care advice, this episode may just change your mind.

Listen in as our hosts delve into the often misunderstood concept of self-care. Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar, confesses his love-hate relationship with self-care, admitting he's not the best at it and probably not alone. Together, he and Dr. Nicole Washington strip away the buzzword status of self-care, revealing it as an essential, practical toolkit for coping and thriving. They go beyond bubble baths and vacations and focus on building resilience in everyday life.

Whether it’s setting healthier boundaries at work or redefining daily routines, Gabe and Dr. Nicole’s insights offer relatable, actionable steps that will resonate with everyone. Listen now!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the show's official episode page.

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dodging Bipolar Relapse in January: Beating Holiday Havoc

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0000

As the holiday season begins, we start feeling the pull to enjoy every treat, party, and late night that November and December has to offer. But for those managing bipolar disorder, the holiday frenzy can lead to more than just leftover fruitcake in January.

Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington as they dive into the chaotic holiday whirlpool and explain how its demands can quickly become a recipe for relapse. They discuss why indulging in a little holiday cheer might feel innocent, but can lead to unwelcome surprises like depression, disrupted routines, and, in more serious cases, a bipolar episode.

With humor, honesty, and practical advice, Gabe and Dr. Nicole help you navigate this festive season mindfully so that come January, you’ll feel recharged instead of regretful. If you want to enter the new year feeling strong, this is the episode for you.

“One of the things I think that trips up a lot of people is we tend to save our splurges for special occasions. But during the holidays, I mean, from Halloween to New Year's, it feels like every day is a special occasion because it's the holiday season. So, but really, I mean, you can't have 65 days of special occasions. I mean, you just can't. Or else your body will be angry at you.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington, Host

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Love & Marriage: Tackling Relationship Challenges with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Navigating marriage is hard enough — but when bipolar disorder is in the mix, things can get even more complicated. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the complexities of marriage when one partner lives with bipolar disorder.

Gabe shares candid stories from his two divorces and the challenges of untreated bipolar, while Dr. Nicole lends her expert insights on how unmanaged moods affect relationships. They explore why marital conflicts are often misattributed to mental illness and remind listeners that, sometimes, marriage itself is just tough.

If you've ever wondered how bipolar disorder impacts a long-term relationship — or if you're looking for an honest discussion about love, trust, and coping with life's ups and downs — this episode offers a refreshingly real take on what it means to build a resilient partnership despite what complications bipolar disorder may bring.

“We've already talked about how hard marriage is in general. Why add to it by not doing the things that you know are your responsibility? This is your responsibility in your marriage, is managing your symptoms, managing your illness. Just like every other responsibility that you have just by being married.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington, host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Self-Sabotage and Bipolar: Breaking the Cycle

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Dive into the intricate dance between self-sabotage and bipolar disorder in this eye-opening episode. Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar, and Dr. Nicole Washington as they explore the often unrecognized ways that bipolar symptoms can lead to unconscious self-sabotaging behaviors.

Discover how to identify patterns of self-sabotage and why understanding the "why" behind your actions is crucial for growth. If you’ve ever felt trapped by your own choices or wondered how to break free from destructive cycles, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to reclaim control over your life. Don’t miss out on this essential conversation that blends lived experience with expert advice—tune in and start your journey toward healing today.

"I think a lot of people are more aware of self-sabotage than they think. So when we talk about combating it, if people say to you, you're always self-destructing, you're always blowing up your spot, you're always causing yourself issues. You're your own worst enemy. You need to get out of your own way. These are all other ways to describe you’re self-sabotaging.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seasonal Bipolar: Can Weather Really Cause Symptoms?

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Can the changing seasons impact bipolar disorder, much like they do with seasonal depression? In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle the intriguing question of whether bipolar disorder can have seasonal patterns.

Drawing on the latest research, they explore how seasonal changes affect mood, not just in terms of depression but also mania and hypomania. Dr. Nicole sheds light on the DSM-5's reclassification of seasonal affective disorder and how it now ties into major depressive disorder—and how that relates to bipolar disorder.

From the science behind circadian rhythms to practical tips for managing seasonal mood shifts, including the potential risks of light therapy, this conversation will challenge what you think you know about bipolar disorder and the changing seasons. Tune in to stay updated and discover how understanding seasonal patterns can help make your condition more manageable.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

This episode is sponsored, in part, by Cornbread Hemp. They produced the first-ever USDA-certified organic CBD gummies in America. Save 30% on your first order using code "Inside30."

“Ads for light boxes pop up, and people are going to say, this is amazing. This is a fantastic idea. I'm just going to go with this light box. There is data to support that it helps with depression during this time of year, and all those things are great. It can be wonderful. It can help seasonal depression, but you have to be careful if you have bipolar disorder using a light box. Because it can spark a little hypomania or mania for some people. So you just have to be careful. Make sure everybody involved knows what the potential risks are before you jump into something like that.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Overcoming Internalized Shame and Guilt in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Shame, guilt, and self-stigma. Our host, Gabe Howard, may openly talk about living with bipolar disorder, but that doesn't mean he doesn’t feel shame and guilt. In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole Washington dive deep into the lingering guilt many feel after a bipolar diagnosis.

Why do feelings of self-stigma persist, even after years into recovery? From internalized discrimination to societal misunderstandings, Gabe shares how he grappled with his diagnosis and the emotional baggage that followed. Learn how to confront these feelings and, more importantly, find the path to internalizing stability and success. Whether you have a new diagnosis or have lived with bipolar disorder for years, this episode will resonate with anyone seeking to break free from shame and embrace their journey.

Tune in for an honest, no-holds-barred conversation on the real struggles and triumphs behind living with bipolar disorder.

“When we think, I live with bipolar disorder and I'm not smart, I'm garbage, and I'll never achieve, we say it to ourselves. We internalize these messages. So I think that we take the stigma from society, which is like a fire, and then we dump gas on it and then let it burn out of control. And we wonder why it's turning out poorly for us? I think a huge protective factor against guilt and shame is to openly discuss it.” ~Gabe Howard

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bipolar Mixed Episodes: Navigating the Unthinkable

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Can mania and depression really coexist? In this episode, our hosts unravel the complexities of bipolar mixed episodes — where mania and depression collide in the same mind, often creating a personal hell for those experiencing it.

Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington dive into the complexities of mixed episodes, highlighting that they’re far more than just mood changes. Bipolar mood episodes combine dangerous elements like high energy, impulsivity, and intense hopelessness.

They use vivid analogies, comparing it to mixing vodka and Red Bull — a chaotic blend where alcohol and caffeine each trigger distinct sensations but together create an entirely unpredictable and overwhelming effect. This can help listeners visualize the volatile nature of mixed episodes and why they are so challenging to manage.

Discover why mixed episodes carry a higher risk of suicide and why recognizing them matters. Tune in to learn how this evolving knowledge can lead to better diagnoses, treatment, and ultimately, better outcomes for those living with bipolar disorder.

“When someone is sitting in front of me and I'm trying to figure out, what is this? Is this mania? Is this a mixed episode? And I'll be completely honest with you, a lot of times, mixed episodes don't even come to the forefront of my mind. It's not something I usually say, oh, let me screen for whether this is a manic episode or a mixed episode. In all the chaos of the mania, sometimes the depression parts can get missed.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fear of Relapse? Navigating the Lingering Shadows of Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

This episode delves into the often-overlooked aftermath of living with bipolar disorder, even after achieving stability. Gabe, who lives with bipolar, shares his personal experiences of lingering fears, the trauma of past depressive episodes, and the constant self-monitoring that comes with managing his illness.

Dr. Nicole explores the delicate balance between responsibility and self-compassion, and how trauma, even if not officially recognized as such, can profoundly alter one’s life. They discuss the concept of post-traumatic growth, the importance of individualized coping strategies, and how to navigate the thin line between symptom and emotion.

This episode offers hope and practical advice for those grappling with the long-term mental fallout of living with bipolar disorder.

“Many people with bipolar disorder are not worried about mania coming back because we've romanticized it and we remember it so fondly. But many of us with bipolar disorder are terrified of depression coming back because we're afraid of it. The reality is, I never worry about winning the lottery, because if it happens, I'm just going to be so happy. But I do worry about running out of money. So, I'm not worried about a sudden influx of cash, but I'm terrified of not having enough cash.” ~Gabe Howard

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Work-Life Balance Is a Scam: What It Really Means for Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Trying to achieve that perfect work-life balance? You’re not alone, and it might be doing more harm than good—especially if you’re managing bipolar disorder. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar, and Dr. Nicole Washington debunk the myth of work-life balance, revealing how this ideal can fuel feelings of inadequacy and guilt for those living with bipolar disorder.

Instead of chasing an impossible standard, learn about work-life integration and how to create a more compassionate, flexible approach to managing your daily life. If you’re tired of feeling like you’re constantly falling short in life’s balancing act, this episode will help you rethink what that balance looks like and find a more sustainable way to navigate your journey with bipolar disorder.

“I want to say, to hell with those people. Those people do not understand us. They do not understand what we go through, and they don't understand that the way that we need to recharge is built for our life, our life managing bipolar disorder.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating Friendships and Support: Building a Balanced Bipolar Support System

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Today we discuss how to navigate friendships, avoid echo chambers, and integrate professional advice into your bipolar support system. Learn why having a range of perspectives is essential for your mental health journey and how to effectively manage relationships without falling into codependency.

We explore the intricate balance of maintaining friendships while managing bipolar disorder. Gabe, who lives with bipolar, shares his personal challenges with relying solely on friends with bipolar disorder for support and highlights the need for a diverse support team. This episode is a must listen for anyone looking to understand the role of friends in a bipolar support network and how to foster healthy, supportive connections.

“You know, there are encounters I enter where being a woman is a very big part of that encounter, and I can connect with someone on that. There are times when things shift, and I'm more likely to connect with someone who is of the same race or ethnicity. It just depends on the situation. People with bipolar disorder are no different. They're no different when it comes to that.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Impact of Menstrual Cycles and Hormonal Fluctuations on Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Today we delve into the complex relationship between menstrual cycles, hormonal fluctuations, and bipolar disorder. Join Dr. Nicole Washington and Natasha Tracy, who lives with bipolar disorder, as they explore how periods and other “women’s health” issues can impact mood stability and what menstruating people with bipolar disorder should know about managing their symptoms.

Learn about the importance of tracking mood changes, the role of birth control in symptom management, and why open communication between gynecologists and psychiatrists is crucial. Whether you’re personally affected or simply curious, this episode sheds light on an often under-discussed aspect of reaching recovery with bipolar disorder.

“For women, it's so hard to know what to say in that situation because of the lack of data, and hopefully you're able to twig in your own mind, OK, maybe that's happening. Maybe that's a conversation I need to have. Don't wait for your doctor to bring it up. Maybe they will, maybe they won't. But don't wait, because your life can be improved by bringing up that conversation today. So, there's no reason not to do that.” ~Natasha Tracy

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our guest co-host, Natasha Tracy, is an award-winning writer, speaker, and social media consultant from the Pacific Northwest. She works to bring high-quality, insightful, and trusted information on bipolar disorder and related illnesses to the public while engaging with the mental health community.

Natasha is a mental health thought leader and subject matter expert in bipolar disorder. Her thoughts on it have been sought by the media and academics. Her Bipolar Burble has been named a top 10 health blog by Healthista, Health.com, Healthline, Medical News Today, and others.

For a complete list of Natasha’s awards, see here. You can also see here for Natasha in the Media.

In 2016, Natasha published her first book, the acclaimed Lost Marbles: Insights into My Life with Depression & Bipolar. Buy Lost Marbles on Amazon. Read more about Lost Marbles here.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Answering the Overlooked: Bipolar’s Brain Changes, Vertigo, TMS, and More (From Listener Questions)

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Ever wonder if dizziness is from your medication or if there's really such a thing as medication-resistant bipolar disorder? In this episode, our hosts tackle questions submitted by listeners, diving into topics rarely discussed on other podcasts.

Questions include: Is the brain of someone with bipolar disorder physically different? What exactly is TMS and does it work for bipolar? Was lithium really tested on guinea pigs first? Tune in for quick, informative answers — and a dose of humor — to questions that don’t usually get the spotlight but definitely deserve attention. Listen now!

Here’s what’s covered, in order:

Could dizziness or vertigo be a side effect of my medication, or is something else causing it?
What’s the deal with TMS as a treatment for bipolar disorder?
Is medication-resistant bipolar disorder real?
What should I do if I experience side effects from my medication? Should I go to the emergency room?
Is the brain of someone with bipolar disorder physically different?
What’s the story behind lithium being tested on guinea pigs?

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe: They were testing gout on guinea pigs and they came up with a treatment for bipolar disorder? Yes, that's pretty much exactly what happened. Why is that so hard to believe?

Dr. Nicole: Yeah. You're just envisioning all of these little manic guinea pigs running around, and then they gave them lithium, and all of a sudden they were just, you know, chill, leisurely walking around the pen? Is that? [Laughter]

Gabe: Yeah, yeah. They were just like, ‘sup? I want to chill with you. Before, they were climbing all over each other and climbing up the walls. And I mean, some of them were depressed. I mean, some of the guinea pigs weren't climbing up. They were just, like, laying there, like, I don't want any, like. Yeah, it was just, it was just a bipolar mixture of guinea pigs. Cute, furry, cuddly little guinea pigs.

Dr. Nicole: [Laughter] Oh, my gosh.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Curious about how bipolar disorder is diagnosed? Join Gabe and Dr. Nicole as they break down the intricacies of the diagnostic process. From recognizing the subtle signs of mania and depression to understanding the importance of detailed questioning, this episode offers an in-depth look at what it takes to accurately diagnose bipolar disorder.

Whether you're noticing symptoms in yourself or supporting someone you care about, our hosts explain with simple language and relatable examples. They make it easy to understand how doctors figure out if it’s typical behavior or something more serious. Join us to see how clinicians connect the dots to diagnose bipolar disorder in a way that's both informative and easy to follow.

"Before we delve into any of that, this episode is not designed for you to diagnose yourself or others. If you are listening to this episode so that you can give yourself a bipolar diagnosis, hit stop now. Don't listen. It's a terrible idea. I want to state it so plain and simply because I see so many influencers offering what appear to be very close to diagnoses of people. And it scares me because people think they're getting good information and they decide that they have bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression and all kinds of other things, and they're not getting this from good sources." ~Gabe Howard, Host of the Inside Bipolar podcast

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Embracing Positivity with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Our hosts discuss practical strategies for managing negativity with bipolar disorder in this episode. They explore the importance of setting realistic expectations and making necessary adjustments in daily routines. They also emphasize the value in understanding and differentiating between baseline emotions and those triggered by bipolar disorder.

Gabe, who lives with bipolar himself, shares insights on reframing negative experiences to recognize the positives in life — or at least to see a different perspective. Listen now to learn how intentional positivity and self-awareness can combat negative thinking and improve overall well-being.

"Yes, it sucks. Bipolar disorder is not anything that anybody's signing up for. But if you have it, it doesn't mean that you should just view everything as all doom and gloom and nothing's ever going to go right for you. And you can say that about just about any diagnosis. It's cancer, it's diabetes, it's heart disease. Yes, they all suck. We would not wish them on anybody. But just because you are diagnosed with bipolar disorder doesn't mean that you just go lay down and just think, well, I might as well give up and go eat worms because I have this thing. There's still a way for you to find enjoyment in life, even through the struggle of having to deal with this very difficult thing." ~Dr. Nicole Washington

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Our Host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Truth About Resilience with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0000

In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the misconception that resilience is an inherent trait for those with bipolar disorder, highlighting the hard work and external support necessary for true recovery. Gabe shares personal experiences of frustration with the superficial praise of resilience, stressing the importance of addressing the trauma and journey of living with a serious mental illness.

Tune in to learn what resilience is (and is not), the need for genuine support, and the impact of toxic positivity on mental health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the nuanced challenges faced by those with bipolar disorder and how lasting resilience is built.

"Being able to weather that storm doesn't mean that the rain isn't hitting you. It doesn't mean that the wind is not blowing off your shutters. It doesn't mean that you're coming through it 100% intact. You are being battered, and it just means that when the storm is over, you're soaking wet. You're exhausted, your house is trashed, the shutters are everywhere, but you're still standing, and now you're going to turn around and say, okay, I need help putting those shutters back. I need some dry clothes. That's what resiliency is. But I think the vast majority of people believe that resiliency is that the storm never comes, and nothing could be more false than that statement." ~Gabe Howard

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pinpointing Recovery: Defining ‘Regular’ Moods and Self-Directed Goals in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

SAMHSA defines recovery as a “process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.” But how do you define recovery for yourself?

Today, our hosts delve into the complexities of defining and understanding recovery in bipolar disorder. They discuss the constant struggle to distinguish between bipolar symptoms and “normal” mood fluctuations, the importance of self-directed recovery goals, and the role of medication.

Dr. Nicole provides insights on what constitutes a "normal" mood, while Gabe, who lives with bipolar disorder, emphasizes the value of personalizing recovery journeys. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that challenges common misconceptions, offers practical advice, and empowers you to take charge of your mental health. Don't miss this essential guide to navigating life with bipolar disorder!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

"Recovery is complicated. It shouldn't be. You wouldn't think that it would be, but it is. And I think once we get comfortable with the idea that recovery is complicated, we can then get comfortable with the idea that recovery is personal. And once we get comfortable with the idea that recovery is personal, we can get comfortable with the idea that recovery is self-directed." ~Gabe Howard

Resource Links:

https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/pep12-recdef.pdf (shows entire pamphlet)

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/recovery (references definition)

https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/sma16-4958.pdf (pamphlet w/ dimensions of wellness)

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bipolar Psychosis: Demons, Delusions, and Hallucinations

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Join our hosts as they delve into the intricacies of psychosis, hallucinations, and delusions, highlighting the challenges faced by those who experience them and their impact on loved ones. Gabe shares his journey with bipolar psychosis, detailing the intense delusions involving demons that once dominated his life.

Through candid conversation and professional insights, our hosts explore the realities of mental illness, emphasize the importance of compassionate support, and discuss practical strategies for managing symptoms. Whether you’re seeking understanding, support, or education, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on living with and overcoming bipolar psychosis. Listen Now!

Cold Open Transcript:

Gabe Howard: On television, the hallucinations are always perfect. The person who is hallucinating is seeing a fully-fledged person. They're able to interact with that person. They're able to touch that person. They're able to play chess with that person. Is that what a hallucination needs to look like in order for somebody to seek help for it?

Dr. Nicole Washington: No, that is TV, man. That is not what this looks like. Sometimes, even on some of these based on true story movies that we make about people with psychosis, sometimes those people never have visual hallucinations, but it doesn't make for good TV. It doesn't bring the point home for the watcher or the listener. You need to have that too in order to really kind of get what's going on.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Psychiatry's Controversies: Overprescription, Skepticism, and Finding the Middle Ground

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Today, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the anti-psychiatry movement, emphasizing the importance of balancing perspectives. They acknowledge the valid concerns of anti-psychiatry advocates but caution against the dangers of extreme views, which can undermine beneficial aspects of psychiatric treatment. They encourage reading both pro- and anti-psychiatry literature to make informed decisions while underscoring the need for improvements in the mental health field to address its historical (and ongoing) shortcomings.

"I know because 'I did this research that says the following things,' and that research is not grounded in reality. That is the anti-psychiatry movement that we are most worried about. But again, submerge yourself in it, learn about it, understand it, figure out what pieces apply to your treatment. Do not answer shop. Do not get stuck in the echo chamber. Do not get stuck in the silo. Because that's not a way to get good care either." ~Gabe Howard, Host

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Signs of Progress: How to Recognize Recovery With Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Today, we tackle the complex question, "How do you know if you're getting better with bipolar disorder?" Gabe shares his experiences and frustrations as a patient with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole provides insights from a board certified psychiatrist's viewpoint.

Together, they discuss the importance of setting realistic goals, the value of tracking progress through mood journals and standardized assessments, and the often-overlooked small victories in the journey toward wellness. Whether you're managing bipolar disorder or supporting someone who is, this episode offers practical tips and heartfelt advice on recognizing progress.

"We have to figure out our own benchmarks. Better is relative, and we also have to be very careful in the whole funk of I'm not getting any better. Are you comparing yourself to yourself? [. . .] You need to compare you now to how you were 2 months ago, 3 months ago, 4 months ago. What are your benchmarks?" ~Dr. Nicole Washington

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating the Zombie Effect: Emotional Blunting with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0000

We discuss the common complaint from people with bipolar disorder of feeling emotionally blunted or like a "zombie" due to their medication. Gabe expresses the people’s frustrations when their concerns seem dismissed in favor of highlighting symptom improvements. Dr. Nicole emphasizes the importance of providing specific examples and patience because medications take time to stabilize. They conclude that to effectively address this issue, people need to clearly communicate their experiences, and psychiatrists need to balance symptom management with quality of life considerations.

Cold Open Transcript:

Dr. Nicole: But feeling like a zombie and not having that passion, to me, those are still two very different things. That's where the disconnect is. So, did you feel like a zombie or were you just less passionate about things?

Gabe: So, once again we get back to where we started, which is that telling your Dr. Nicole you feel like a zombie is just a recipe for misunderstanding. . . And probably not getting what you want.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Essential Questions to Ask About Your Bipolar Diagnosis and Treatment

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Our hosts delve into the crucial aspects of understanding and managing a bipolar disorder diagnosis. Join them as they break down five essential questions every person should ask their healthcare professional about their diagnosis and treatment options.

Learn why these questions matter, how to navigate the complex diagnostic process, and explore some of the common treatment avenues. Whether you've just received a diagnosis or are seeking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers valuable insights to help you take control of your journey with bipolar disorder. Listen now for practical advice and expert guidance that can make a real difference.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unmasking Imposter Syndrome: A Deep Dive into Its Origins and Impact

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Our hosts try to avoid pop psychology topics and focus on specifics with more robust scientific backing. However, imposter syndrome has been getting a lot of attention recently. Even though imposter syndrome isn't officially a diagnosis, it's a real issue for many, including people with bipolar disorder.

The fact is, imposter syndrome can affect anyone, regardless of other mental health disorders, and finding community and allies is one way to combat it. In this episode, our hosts reflect on the broader societal implications and the importance of recognizing and validating achievements without self-doubt. Listen Now!

"People with mental illness are constantly on the outside looking in. Always, always, always. Women in the 1970s, on the outside looking in. People of color, on the outside looking in. Being in environments where you are the only, you are one of the few. Any time you are in any of those kinds of categories, how could you not have imposter syndrome? If the world and society and the media and the way we portray people with bipolar disorder and all those things paint you in this one way, how could those things not creep into your psyche and affect how you see yourself and your ability to be successful?" ~Dr. Nicole Washington

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit our official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unpacking the Psych Appointment: Questions, Expectations, and Outcomes

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Ever wondered why your psychiatrist bombards you with what seem like mundane questions? Join Gabe, who is navigating life with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, as they delve into the dynamics of your psych visit. Their talk will touch on mood charts, sleep journals, and a better understanding of what is going through your provider’s mind as they direct the appointment.

Uncover the hidden gems behind those seemingly routine questions and learn how they can pave the path to your journey of recovery. The hosts discuss practical insights and invaluable tips for making the most of your mental health consultations. Discover the insider's guide to maximizing your psychiatric appointments by listening now!

"If I can be frank for a moment, Dr. Nicole, these are the questions that come up in the Reddit threads, in the private social media groups, and the support groups. The questions that trigger us, offend us, annoy us, bother us. That we have some emotion about, a misunderstanding and, and some feelings about." ~Gabe Howard

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Off the Meds: Navigating Bipolar Treatment Challenges

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0000

The common issue of people with bipolar disorder wanting to stop taking medication is discussed in today’s episode. Dr. Nicole Washington highlights that often, these people present compelling reasons why they believe their diagnosis might be incorrect, but stopping medication without a strategic, supervised approach can lead to severe consequences.

Both Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole emphasize the importance of patient education about the chronic nature of bipolar disorder and the potential dangers of stopping medication cold turkey and unsupervised. They explore safer ways to manage medication concerns, such as dose adjustments and strategies for open and direct communication.

"Is it rooted in evidence that you might not have bipolar disorder, or is it rooted in your strong desire for somebody to tell you you don't have bipolar disorder? Because there are people who have legit concerns about their diagnosis and they say, listen, I just don't think I have bipolar disorder. I genuinely do not think that is what's going on with me, and this is why. That's a totally different person than the person who knows full well that they probably do have bipolar disorder, but they really are trying to find somebody to side with them." ~Dr. Nicole Washington

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Humor and Breaking Stigma: Joking about Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 27 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Is it ever OK to joke about living with bipolar disorder? And what about people who live with bipolar — are they welcome to jest about their experiences, or is it considered inappropriate? While mental health circles often advocate embracing humor as a healthy coping mechanism, there's also the acknowledgment that bipolar disorder is a serious condition and should not be trivialized.

Today's episode delves into this nuanced topic, inviting listeners to consider various perspectives on the matter.

"We're not going to stop jokes about living with serious and persistent mental illness and bipolar disorder. I think we can use our time better; that will make us feel a lot better about the assholes who are mean-spirited. For me, I want to know the intention behind the joke. If it's to be funny, I'm a lot less offended than if it's to literally insult people." ~Gabe Howard

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Losing Your Provider: Navigating the Therapeutic Relationship from Beginning to End

Mon, 13 May 2024 09:00:00 -0000

We discuss the challenges people face when needing to find a new psychiatrist, therapist, or support group, emphasizing that while people often underestimate the difficulty of this process, it's a crucial step in managing a long-term mental illness.

We highlight that a solid patient-provider relationship is vital and can take time to replace a trusted professional. Dr. Nicole Washington advises on the importance of maintaining an updated medical history and being active in transitioning to a new clinician to ensure continuity of care.

Gabe Howard and Dr. Washington also emphasize the effect of suddenly losing a medical professional due to retirement, relocation, or other reasons and offer guidance on smoothly transitioning to a new clinician, reassuring listeners that it's normal to experience a range of emotions during this process.

You wouldn't consider your psychiatrist your friend, your therapist, your friend, but it very much feels like you've lost someone very important. Someone who was very valuable in your journey with your bipolar disorder. And all of a sudden now they're gone. You can feel just as much grief as if you lost a loved one, because you've poured so much into that person and that relationship. These are deep relationships, so don't feel silly about why am I so sad? Don't minimize the importance and the value that relationship brings to you. So take the time to grieve that loss. ~Dr. Nicole Washington

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Navigating Family Support: The Partnership Paradigm with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Today we discuss the importance of forming a supportive partnership with loved ones managing bipolar disorder without it devolving into a codependent relationship. We also discuss how important it is for our friends and family members not to micromanage or infantilize those living with bipolar.

We emphasize the value of open communication so loved ones can express their fears and concerns and provide encouragement and positive interaction beyond the illness.

Finally, the hosts encourage sharing this episode to help foster understanding and improve the support system for those living with bipolar disorder.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

“One of the reasons that you might not be invited in the room is because of you, and because of the way that you have talked to your loved ones, the way that you keep asking that fully loaded question of have you taken your meds, the way that you are constantly fussing at them like they're still a teenager in your home. Those might be the reasons that they don't let you get involved. Maybe if you felt like more a part of their team, as opposed to still their parent or some person in authority, they might be a little more willing to let you in when it comes to those kinds of things.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington

Our Host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

He is also the host of Healthline Media's Inside Mental Health podcast available on your favorite podcast player. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Our Host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Busting Bipolar Myths: Uncovering the Truths Behind the Lies

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Dispelling myths surrounding bipolar disorder can be challenging, especially considering its diverse presentation among individuals. In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole delve into these misconceptions, emphasizing the varied nature of the disorder's symptoms and the complexities involved in diagnosis and treatment. While acknowledging the importance of medication, they stress the holistic approach necessary for effective management, including therapy, support networks, and coping mechanisms.

Additionally, they confront the misconception that loved ones are powerless in supporting individuals with bipolar disorder. Tune in now to gain a deeper understanding of bipolar disorder and learn the truths versus the lies.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

“. . . And that is probably one of the most dangerous myths. And really, it has its claws into all of the other myths, that this is somehow simple. And I, I'm, I'm, I'm terrified that people believe it's simple, especially for our loved ones and for our people diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Because if they don't realize how complicated this is, and they don't realize how much work they need to do and how difficult this is going to be, then they might not be prepared for what's ahead.” ~Gabe Howard, Host

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mood Stabilizers: Unraveling the Mysteries of These Medications

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Today’s episode discusses the complexities and reality of mood stabilizers for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Though mood stabilizers can significantly aid in shifting mood, they are not perfect and come with various side effects, some of which may require regular blood monitoring and can affect daily life differently for each individual. You can work with healthcare professionals to manage side effects, and sometimes, you can even find the positives in the challenges of treatment.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Speed Shift from Mania to Steady Thoughts (and How to Manage)

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 09:00:00 -0000

Many people with bipolar disorder miss the feeling of mania despite its destructive nature. Today, we discuss the complexity of treating bipolar disorder, emphasizing the importance of patience, concrete examples of symptoms, and the fact that medication can help stabilize and potentially hinder a patient's cognitive functions. Gabe and Dr. Nicole both agree on the need for people with bipolar disorder to be strong self-advocates, involve support systems, and work closely with their healthcare professionals to achieve stability and recovery.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Exploring the Gritty and Ugly Sides of Bipolar

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Addressing the more difficult and less discussed aspects of bipolar disorder, such as the high suicide rates associated with the condition, the severe impacts of depressive episodes, and societal stigma & discrimination is never easy. However, in today's episode, we ask ourselves, candidly, do podcasts like this one ignore the “ugly” side of bipolar disorder? What about mental health speakers, writers, and influencers? Has the desire to put a positive spin on the harsh reality of mental illness gone too far?

Our hosts want to acknowledge the complexity of addressing bipolar disorder and its consequences while still providing hope and encouragement to those affected. This episode was inspired by a listener's email. As always, we encourage feedback and topic suggestions. Send them to Show@psychcentral.com.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is “I’m Bipolar” a Stigmatizing Statement?

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000

If you spend time discussing bipolar disorder, you’ll quickly see there are many complexities and controversies surrounding language and identity. Today’s conversation aims to emphasize respect and personal empowerment while encouraging society to accommodate individual language preferences and focus on broader issues of care for those living with bipolar disorder.

In today’s episode, we explore the tension between person-first language and conscious language initiatives and the way individuals with bipolar disorder choose to describe their own experiences. We question the rigidity of language initiatives and advocate for preference versus hard and fast rules

To read the transcript -- and learn more -- visit the official episode page.

Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Dr. Nicole Washington is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Managing Urges and Impulses with Bipolar

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0000

“Bipolar urges" are the strong desires or impulses that people managing bipolar disorder may experience. Sometimes, giving in to these impulses can lead to significant life changes, such as quitting a job or spending excessively. It’s important to understand that while urges are a natural part of human behavior, managing them in the context of bipolar disorder is critical to prevent negative outcomes and maintain stability.

In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole explore the challenges of discerning whether urges are symptoms of bipolar disorder or regular human emotions. They stress the importance of using strategies such as creating checklists, setting boundaries, and consulting a support team when making decisions. If you or a loved one manages impulse control in the context of bipolar disorder, this episode is for you.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Borderline Personality Disorder vs. Bipolar. Why the Confusion?

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is often compared to — or even confused with — bipolar disorder. Many people are curious whether BPD and bipolar are the same thing with different names.

In this episode, we discuss what BPD is, what it is not, and if bipolar disorder and BPD have any relation at all. We also delve into whether someone can have both disorders. Join us as Dr. Nicole and Gabe compare and contrast bipolar and BPD.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Attending College with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0000

We’ve talked about how to manage going back to work after a bipolar diagnosis. But what about going to school? What is college like with bipolar disorder? What are the unique challenges of trying to navigate academia with a mental illness? And how can you put yourself in the best possible position for success?

Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss practical tips and considerations when starting your college career — all ideas and things that will put you in the best position for success.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maintaining Long-Term Recovery with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

It can take a long time to reach recovery with bipolar disorder, but once you do, what then? Is it over? Can you stop going to support groups, monitoring your sleep, and tracking your moods? What about your medication and doctor’s visits — can all that just be forgotten? In fact, how long will it be before you can stop paying attention to all of this and leave bipolar disorder in your rearview mirror?

Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole share the answers to these questions and why it may be better to look at bipolar as an annoying roommate versus something you’ll never have to deal with again. And, perhaps most importantly, why that’s OK.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Annoying Things Psych Docs Say to Patients

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

We asked on social media for the most annoying things people’s psychiatrists have ever said to them. Wow, did we get some responses! From access to care to dismissing symptoms to offering nonsensical advice, people really feel many psychiatrists say a lot of annoying things.

In this episode, we discuss the top four answers and Dr. Nicole shares some thoughts from her perspective. Even though people had a lot of feedback, the majority remained respectful and shared a lot of great insights. Listen now!

To read the transcript -- or learn more -- visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does What You Eat Affect Bipolar?

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

There isn’t a specific diet that will cure bipolar disorder, but that doesn’t mean what we eat has no impact on how we feel. In fact, our diet can directly affect how we feel, which can drive the symptoms of bipolar disorder in a myriad of ways.

Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole share specific tips on ways to eat better — even when depressed. They also work to unpack all the reasons we believe what we do about food and how it ties together with a bipolar diagnosis.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our Host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brain Fog and How to Manage It

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Do you have trouble remembering things? Do you not think as quickly as you used to or as you would like? Does your memory or ability to focus often feel “foggy?” Do you think it may be caused by bipolar disorder?

It could be your medication, or aging, or drinking, or something else entirely – but how do you know? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the frustrating symptoms of brain fog and cognitive decline.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host's Mom Shares Family Perspective of Bipolar

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Bipolar disorder is difficult to manage and it doesn’t just affect the person with the disorder. The entire family is involved, often negatively. Unfortunately, more often than not, no one takes a greater hit than mothers.

In this episode, our host Gabe Howard’s mom shares the early signs of bipolar disorder, what it was like to deal with teenage angst on top of serious and persistent mental illness, and what her worries are now.

Join us as Gabe steps aside and leaves the show entirely in the hands of Dr. Nicole Washington as she interviews his mother, Susan Howard.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In-Patient Hospitalizations: How to Stay Prepared

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

No one wants to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital, though being prepared could make it easier to manage. But how do you prepare for such a thing? Whether you have been admitted in the past or just want to feel better prepared for the possibility, this episode dives deep.

Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole share advice on how to be legally prepared (what on earth is a psychiatric advance directive?), what to pack, what not to pack, and more. They also discuss the emotional implications of preparing for this type of crisis. Listen now!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alcohol’s Impact on Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In our society, alcoholic beverages are very common, and since people living with bipolar disorder are just like everyone else, they absorb the same messaging surrounding drinking. From the simple wedding toast to “wine o’clock” and “beer thirty” to celebrate the end of a long work day, imbibing a drink is as common as breathing. But is this the best choice for people managing bipolar disorder?

It is a complicated question that depends on a myriad of factors like where you are in your recovery or whether you take medication to treat bipolar. In this episode, we discuss just how big of a deal mixing alcohol and bipolar disorder is, answering questions like “Is it really dangerous?” and “Do you need to quit drinking entirely or can you just have a little bit?”

We also delve into whether it is possible to regulate bipolar disorder with alcohol. Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the ins and outs of alcohol use and staying stable with bipolar disorder.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Hypomania “Just” Less Severe Mania?

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Often, when discussing hypomania in bipolar disorder, it is described as “just like mania, but not as severe.” To the uneducated populace, this creates the idea that hypomania is not as serious and, for all practical purposes, is basically “mania light.”

But is that accurate? Is hypomania simply a lesser form of mania? Or are mania and hypomania two distinct symptoms that need to be treated in unique ways? Join us as Dr. Nicole gives us all the medical info and Gabe shares how well-meaning bipolar advocates — like him — contribute to the confusion.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

Our hosts, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

5 People For Your Support Team (That You Coach)

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Building a support system to help you manage bipolar disorder is easier said than done. In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole share that a support system is helpful and give hints and tips on how to build your team.

They discuss who you should have on your support team and how to recruit them as well as who to avoid and why. They also share the five most important people they feel can offer the best support.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Families Seeking Forgiveness After Recovery (Part 2 of 2)

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Last week, Gabe shared all the things his parents did wrong when it came to helping him manage his bipolar disorder. This week, he tells us some of the things his parents got right. Dr. Nicole shares how many of her patients have tried to reconnect with estranged family members, and they both discuss ways to bring people back together. An inspiring, hopeful, and motivating episode awaits!

Please note: This is a continuing discussion from the previous Inside Bipolar episode, “Families Are Complicated and Bipolar Doesn’t Help (Part 1 of 2),” however, both episodes can stand alone.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

Host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Families Are Complicated and Bipolar Doesn’t Help (Part 1 of 2)

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Our host, Gabe Howard, frequently shares how his parents “did everything wrong” when getting him help for bipolar disorder. He has shared the fractures in his family, the misunderstandings, and the conflict in multiple past episodes.

In this episode, we dive into some of the specifics of his parent’s missteps and touch on what they could have done differently. Join us as Gabe openly discusses how these mistakes impacted him and what his relationship with his parents is like now.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Second Opinion for Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Receiving a diagnosis of any major medical condition is scary. A bipolar disorder diagnosis can be even scarier. Many people may disagree, wondering if the doctor is correct.

Should you seek a second opinion and, if so, what if another doctor or mental health professional has a different perspective? Would you benefit from hearing it? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss when and how you might want to look into getting a second opinion.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

Host, Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

Host, Dr. Nicole Washington is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mania Stay and Depression Go? Treatment Options for Bipolar Symptoms

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Most of us want to get rid of depressive periods, but we aren’t as sold on getting rid of manic periods. And why should we be?

Why won’t doctors just do what we want and relieve our depression while not messing with the often incredibly enjoyable symptom of mania? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole explain why the disorder — and the human body — just don’t work that way.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Episode Transcript:

Producer’s Note

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Using Supplements to Treat Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Are you interested in the pros and cons of using over-the-counter supplements to treat bipolar disorder? Some people are curious about them and others feel they are equivalent to prescription medications. But, what’s the reality?

Join Gabe and Dr. Nicole as they share the potential pitfalls of using supplements as a front-line treatment and discuss some of the more popular vitamins and supplements talked about for bipolar disorder.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are Routines Helpful to Manage Bipolar Disorder?

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Many of us have been told that maintaining a consistent routine is the key to living well with bipolar disorder. But does that ever annoy you? Does it feel like you’re being treated like a child? After all, the idea of having a routine sounds like something a toddler does, not an adult.

Listen as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss what the concept of routines gets wrong as well as what it gets right. They even throw in some helpful hints on creating one for yourself. But, perhaps most importantly, you’ll learn the suggestion Gabe has for naming your daily schedule.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Mania Always Happy? All About Dysphoric Mania

Mon, 29 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Our host, Gabe Howard, often remarks that mania has the best public relations team in the world. Why else would mania be described as an unbelievable feeling of well-being and pure bliss? It seems mania is only ever discussed as an overwhelming positive experience.

For many people, mania doesn’t include a euphoric feeling — prompting the question, is it even mania? In fact, is there such a thing as mania that doesn’t include euphoria? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss dysphoric mania and share how it’s different from a mixed state.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Overeating an Example of Self-Medication?

Mon, 15 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Our host, Gabe Howard, used to weigh over 550 pounds. These days, he maintains a healthier weight — and has done so for over 20 years. Many people, including Gabe, feel that binge eating is an example of self-medicating. Using something — in this case food — to mask the symptoms of bipolar disorder.

If you feel that you may binge-eat as a way to deal with the symptoms of bipolar disorder, this episode is for you. Listen now to find other alternatives and understand the psychological mechanisms at play.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can Cannabis / Marijuana Treat Bipolar Disorder?

Mon, 01 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

What about medical marijuana as a treatment for bipolar disorder? Now that cannabis is legal in many states, many people want to try smoking as a primary treatment method. Realistically, even before cannabis was legalized and regulated, people touted its benefits as a treatment of all kinds of mental health issues from depression to psychosis. But is it true?

Join us as Gabe shares his own experience with marijuana use and Dr. Nicole shares the latest research surrounding living well with bipolar disorder and cannabis.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What Is Rapid Cycling? (And What We Often Get Wrong)

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Are you depressed in the morning and manic in the evening? Do you think that means you are a “rapid cycler”? What if it turns out that’s not the definition at all? Listen in as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss what rapid cycling is — and is not.

As an added bonus, Dr. Nicole will tell us all about ultra rapid cycling and even ultra ultra rapid cycling. There is much to learn and a lot of nuance to unpack. Tune in now!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mom Shares How Childbirth Led to Bipolar Diagnosis

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

About 50% of women with bipolar disorder receive their diagnosis after the birth of a child — during the postpartum period. Despite that large number, there is little information available on the possibility of pregnancy triggering an initial episode of mania or other symptoms of bipolar.

Jessica Ekhoff joins us as the first guest of Inside Bipolar. Ekhoff has postpartum bipolar disorder. She shares her diagnosis story and what she did next.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Guest and Hosts

Jessica Ekhoff is an attorney and postpartum mental health advocate living in Chicago with her husband and son. She is the author of “Super Sad Unicorn: A Memoir of Mania,” which chronicles her experience with postpartum-onset bipolar disorder and psychosis. You can contact Jessica or order a copy of the book at https://www.jessicaekhoff.com/.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Can I Tell If My Child Has Bipolar Disorder?

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Bipolar disorder does have a genetic component, meaning if you have bipolar, your children are at an increased risk of having it themselves. But what does that mean on a practical basis?

How do you know if your child actually has bipolar or if you might be seeing something that isn’t there? Is the “symptom” you see an indicator or just normal teenage behavior? Join us as Dr. Nicole and Gabe discuss how to advocate for the children in your life and handle your own fears.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does Hollywood Portray Life with Bipolar Accurately?

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Even though we all know that movies are fictional, alien robots don’t exist, and no one has magic powers, we often think pop culture portrayals of people with bipolar disorder — which are often negative — are accurate.

In rare cases when people with bipolar disorder are shown as being successful, they are unrealistically successful — genius crime fighters, concert pianists, or movie stars.

Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the impact pop culture has on how the real world sees bipolar disorder.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Owning Our Mistakes Caused by Bipolar Symptoms

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

We have probably done things we’re not proud of while in the midst of a bipolar episode. But it isn’t our fault, right? After all, bipolar disorder isn’t our fault.

Listen in as Gabe and Dr. Nicole explain why thinking that way could negatively impact your relationships and life.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Managing Marriage and Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

We have talked a lot on this show about dating and how to start a relationship when you have bipolar disorder. But what about if you are already in one? What about those of us who aren’t dating, but are already married or in a long-term relationship?

Tune in as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss ways to manage your condition in the context of your relationship and why your partner’s help can be invaluable.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Happiness Possible with Bipolar?

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Are you happy? No matter your answer, you might be asking the wrong question. Is happiness an emotion, a state of being, a destination, or an achievement? It turns out that happiness is not as cut and dry as we’ve been led to believe.

Listen as Gabe and Dr. Nicole answer the surprisingly nuanced question: “Can people with bipolar disorder be happy?

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stopping Bipolar Mania Before It Starts

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

It isn’t always possible to prevent a manic episode, but in today’s episode, we discuss possible techniques to try and stop mania in its tracks. Bipolar disorder is a cyclical illness and it’s important to remember that despite our best efforts, we can fall into mania.

Join us as Dr. Nicole and Gabe discuss some strategies for preventing mania and tips for minimizing the potential damage from a manic episode.

To Learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Defeating Depression with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

You can do everything “right” and still find yourself in a depressive episode. This is largely because bipolar disorder is a cyclical illness. But what are some things you can do to minimize your chances or to break free? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole give us some tips for recognizing, heading off, and even pulling out of a depressive episode.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should You Tell Kids About Your Bipolar Diagnosis?

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Should we tell children about a loved one's (or our own) bipolar disorder diagnosis? Just like discussing sex with children, talking with kids about mental illness is fraught with difficulty. But does it need to be? In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss when kids are old enough to be told, what you should tell them, and why it may be dangerous to avoid the topic.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Mania a Good or Bad Symptom of Bipolar Disorder?

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

“Mania has the best public relations team in the world” is Gabe's favorite “Gabe-ism.” It seems like everyone with bipolar disorder invariably remembers it as an amazing awe-inspiring time. Society, too, romanticizes mania, thinking about it often in positive ways.

But is mania really that great or is this another example of bipolar disorder lying to you? What makes people remember mania so fondly, and what does it look and feel like to our friends and family? Listen as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the symptoms of mania and give you something to think about — no matter how you feel about mania.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Surviving Family Gatherings While Managing Bipolar

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

It is that time of year again: time to get with your extended family for the holidays. If you are not looking forward to it, join the club. A lot of people with bipolar disorder — and a lot of people in general — have trouble navigating complicated family dynamics.

Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole shares some tips and tricks on getting through the holidays — or any other big gathering.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Handling Grief While Managing Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

It should come as no surprise that the death of someone you love can cause duress. No one is at their best after someone they care about passes away.

Grief is a difficult and misunderstood emotion that often leads to mental health challenges for even the most stable of people. However, if you are managing bipolar disorder, how do you manage grief?

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coping with Agitation and Irritability with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Agitation is a real and somewhat common symptom of bipolar disorder. Many people experience it and often we don’t even realize it. Today’s episode covers how agitation presents and some common warning signs. We also mention the subtle differences between being agitated in a clinical sense and being irritable in a typical range of human emotions.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Handling Insensitive Comments About Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

It’s no secret that there’s stigma around mental health. Offensive comments made about bipolar disorder are enough to drive anyone, well, crazy. Listen as Gabe explores the intricacies of language down to word choice and how comments can impact folks with bipolar disorder. He and Dr. Nicole Washington discuss how language can be an alienating force — sometimes the only language we have to describe our experiences is grounded in stigma — and how to better handle insensitive comments from others.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Understanding Lack of Insight (Anosognosia) in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Have you ever wondered what would happen to you if you didn’t understand that you needed treatment for your bipolar disorder (or other mental illness)? Have you heard of legal concepts like “Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT)” or “forced treatment” and wondered how they relate to “lack of insight?”

Turns out there’s a name for lacking insight — anosognosia. And it affects some people with severe and persistent mental illness. Listen as Gabe and Dr. Nicole explore what anosognosia means, what a diagnosis entails, and if the word is overused or weaponized contemporarily. Get ready, cause you won’t see what this episode has coming.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeling Tired Because of Bipolar Disorder?

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Fatigued. Lethargic. Drowsy. All words that mean you aren’t feeling 100% awake. Many people with bipolar disorder report this symptom — but is bipolar the cause? Could it be a medication side effect, lifestyle choice, or simply not getting enough sleep? Listen in as we discuss the link between bipolar disorder and feeling tired.

Learn more -- or read the transcript -- on the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Important Announcement From the Inside Bipolar Podcast

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Just a quick note to let everyone know that the Inside Bipolar podcast is moving to every other Monday starting September 5th. Same great hosts, same great content, and same great show -- just biweekly instead of weekly. Please subscribe so you don't miss an episode.

In the meantime, if you need a weekly mental health podcast fix, you can check out Healthline Media's Inside Mental Health podcast on your favorite player.

About the Show & Hosts:

Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, as they explore the spectrum of this misunderstood illness. They tackle bipolar using real world examples, the latest research, and just enough funny to keep you intrigued.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How Does Aging Impact Bipolar Disorder?

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Did you know that age changes not only potential symptoms of bipolar disorder, but also what care is available, how doctors see the illness, and even our own perspective? It’s even possible for bipolar disorder to show up for the first time in your 50s, 60s, or even later. Listen in as Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington discuss bipolar and aging — from myths about diagnosis, to whether the symptoms of bipolar disorder subside with age.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Need Help Dating with Bipolar Disorder?

Sat, 13 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

From swiping fatigue to getting ghosted, dating is a beast on its own. Throw in a bipolar disorder diagnosis and it gets really complicated, really fast. The first step might be telling someone you live with bipolar, but do you tell them before you meet, on the first date, or wait until you know them a bit better?

How do you navigate the stigma surrounding mental health conditions and manage rejection — regardless of whether it’s because of your bipolar or something else? Listen as Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss all this and more.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coping with Pessimism and Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Pessimism can feel like it’s part and parcel of having bipolar disorder. But differentiating how much of your pessimism comes from bipolar disorder and how much of it is just your personality can be difficult. Host Gabe Howard talks to co-host Nicole Washington about his experience with pessimism and bipolar, how (and when) to get help if you’re a Negative Nelly, and where to draw the line between the two. Give yourself a little grace — because let’s face it, even if we imagine a world where bipolar disorder doesn’t exist, there would still be plenty of pessimists.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Co-Occurring PTSD and Bipolar Disorder: Everything You Need to Know

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 09:00:00 -0000

What’s it like to have PTSD and bipolar disorder? Many people know that mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression, frequently co-occur. Having bipolar disorder doesn’t preclude you from other mental health conditions like PTSD. Seeking treatment for bipolar disorder alone can feel daunting enough. Compound it with PTSD and it may feel ever more complicated and maybe even scary. In this episode, we explore different treatment options, how bipolar and PTSD can overlap in terms of symptoms, and more.

To learn more -- or to read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ruminations and Repeating Thoughts with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Do you ever get stuck on a particular thought, worry, or fear? It just goes around and around and around in your brain: You can’t stop thinking about it, and you can’t focus on anything else until whatever it is is resolved? That is a rumination and anecdotal evidence suggests they are common in bipolar disorder.

But why is that? Are ruminations a symptom of bipolar disorder? Are ruminations listed in the DSM-5? And if you are ruminating on something, how do you get off of it? How do you move on or at least make it through the rest of the work day? Stay tuned to find out!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Returning to Work After an Absence Caused by Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

People expect you to take time off work for things like surgery and recovery, as well as pregnancy. But if you have bipolar disorder and a period of acute sickness led you to take time off work, the process of returning to the workplace may feel daunting. What do you even say to your colleagues?

The added pressure of making yourself attractive to employers doesn’t help — regardless of whether you’re going back to a job or if you’re on the market for a new one. We’ll share hints and tips to help disguise the bipolar disorder in your background — and a few pitfalls to avoid.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Workplace Disclosure of Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

How do you disclose bipolar disorder at work? Should you disclose it at all? If you are going to disclose, how do you tell your boss, colleagues, and human resources that you have bipolar disorder? What are the pros and cons? Would you be surprised to hear that it is mostly cons or would you be surprised there are any pros? Listen now to find out more!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Things That Annoy Your Psychiatrist (That They’ll Never Tell You)

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0000

We all like to think that our psychiatrists are perfect paragons of virtue and that we are their only patients. But, deep down, we all know that isn’t really true. Psychiatrists see multiple patients, have many responsibilities, and are human — just like the rest of us.

Join us as Dr. Nicole, a board certified psychiatrist, shares what behaviors get under her skin. We discuss how doctors don’t know what “the pink triangle pill” is, how they don’t all enjoy hugs, and why screaming at their staff doesn’t improve your care.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disclosing Bipolar to Friends and Colleagues

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Everyone wants to have relationships with people – even if it is to just say hi and bye to our neighbors or get along with our colleagues at work. But when you have bipolar disorder, making new friends can be complicated. For example, when do you tell them about your diagnosis? Do you even need to tell them at all? How can you manage your feelings if they react poorly to the information?

Sometimes you want to be around people who understand bipolar, and sometimes you just want to go bowling. How do you know when is when? Listen Now!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Meet Your Inside Bipolar Podcast Hosts

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Medication Noncompliance in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Whenever medication is discussed as it relates to bipolar disorder, someone will bring up medication compliance. Generally, it’s posed as a question, “Why aren’t people with bipolar disorder med compliant?”

In this episode we discuss the phrase “med compliant,” what it means, and why it’s not as straightforward as “just take your meds.”

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page.

Inside Bipolar Hosts

Gabe Howard is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations, available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. He also hosts Healthline Media's Inside Mental Health podcast available on your favorite podcast player.

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why Is There a Type 1 and 2 in Bipolar Disorder?

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Do you have bipolar I or bipolar II? What are the differences and does it matter? Does debating which one is worse actually distract all of us from getting better? In this episode, Dr. Nicole Washington and Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar I disorder, discuss.

Inside Bipolar Hosts

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pregnancy Considerations with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Both bipolar disorder and pregnancy have unique medical challenges. How do those challenges converge? Is it safe to take medication while pregnant? What about while breastfeeding? Is the postpartum period more or less dangerous for someone with bipolar disorder?

Is it important that your mental health doctors and pregnancy doctors are on the same page and, if so, how does the person who's pregnant navigate that? Listen in as our hosts discuss all this and more.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page.

Inside Bipolar Hosts

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diagnosis Flip-Flop with Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 30 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Bipolar or not bipolar? That is the question. Why do doctors change their minds about a diagnosis, and does altering a diagnosis mean they aren’t good at their profession?

Does a change mean you are getting substandard care, and do you ever wonder why your diagnosis isn’t consistent from medical professional to medical professional, or even from facility to facility? Listen in to answer these questions and more.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page here.

Inside Bipolar Hosts

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Combatting Sexual Side Effects With Your Doctor

Mon, 23 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Are you having trouble with your sex life, but you don't think your doctor will understand? You decide that it's too awkward to explain, so you'd rather just stop taking the medication and tell no one – including the medical professionals treating you?

That is a bad idea and a person who lives with bipolar and a licensed psychiatrist share why. Listen Now!

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- visit the show's official episode page here.

Inside Bipolar Hosts

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Inpatient Commitment Trauma in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 16 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Can a psychiatrist just point to someone with bipolar disorder and commit them? What factors into that decision – are their guidelines, laws, or rules? And what about the reaction of families and friends? Are they normal for lecturing people about their bipolar disorder?

In today’s episode we discuss how inpatient hospitalization is sometimes necessary, but always traumatizing. Listen Now!

Inside Bipolar Hosts

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deconstructing Hypersexuality in Bipolar Disorder

Mon, 09 May 2022 09:00:00 -0000

What is hypersexuality? Is it just about having a lot of sex, or is there more to it? And why don’t we hear more about this common symptom of bipolar disorder?

What could be the downside to having a lot of sex? Join us as Gabe and Dr. Nicole Washington explain the truth about hypersexuality.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the show's official episode page here.

Inside Bipolar Hosts

To learn more about Gabe, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do Medical Professionals Know Best When It Comes to Bipolar Disorder?

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 16:37:00 -0000

Bipolar advocate Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington discuss the pitfalls of getting information from our friends and from medical professionals. They also cover why the side effects of psychiatric medications may sound scary.

The hosts offer tips on how bipolar patients can better advocate for themselves, including what not to say and when it’s better to stay quiet and listen. They share a nuanced and in-depth conversation about managing bipolar disorder.

About the Inside Bipolar host:

Gabe Howard lives with bipolar disorder and is a nationally recognized speaker and podcast host. He is the author of the book “Mental Illness Is an Asshole and Other Observations,” available from Amazon; signed copies available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, please visit gabehoward.com.

About the Inside Bipolar co-host:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Inside Bipolar

Can I Stop My Bipolar Meds? Cold Turkey vs Tapering

BONUS: Headlines of Horror: Schizophrenia Portrayals in News Media

Solo Parenting with Bipolar: Staying Stable as a Single Parent

Getting to Work with Bipolar: Excel at the Job and Live Better

Physical Health and Bipolar: How to Live Better and Longer

When Emotions Are Mistaken for Bipolar Symptoms

Paranoia in Bipolar: Anxiety vs. Psychosis

The ‘Inside Bipolar’ Experiment: Why This Wasn’t Supposed to Work

Bipolar Advocacy 101: From Political Change to Family Boundaries

From Panic to Peace: Self-Calming Tactics for Bipolar Disorder

Traveling with Bipolar: Tips That Actually Work

Addressing Racial & Ethnic Groups in Bipolar Care: Stigma and Misdiagnosis Exposed

Parenthood, Choice, and Bipolar: Reproductive Justice Explain

How to Find Hope When Bipolar Steals It Away

Fish Oil and Bipolar: Hype or Helpful?

Unpacking the Binge Eating Disorder and Bipolar Connection

Hypochondria (aka Illness Anxiety Disorder) in Bipolar Disorder Examined

Beyond Pills: Proven, Science-Based Approaches to Bipolar Management

Firing Your Mental Health Provider: Ending Gracefully, Safely, and Professionally

Do You Feel Taken Advantage Of Due to Bipolar?

Why Can’t You See It? Understanding 'Lack of Insight' in Bipolar Disorder

New Diagnosis or Managing for Years? Learn to Live Well with Bipolar (Part 2 of 2)

New Bipolar Diagnosis? All the Basics Unlocked (Part 1 of 2)

Breaking Stigma in Women’s Mental Health with Kit Wallis

The Bipolar Hack I Ignored for Years: Our Host’s Personal Walking Story

Frozen Truths: Catatonia in Bipolar Disorder

Never Surrender! Staying Committed to Bipolar Treatment

Schizoaffective & Bipolar: What’s the Connection?

OCD & Bipolar: Unraveling Potential Intersections

When Trauma and Bipolar Collide

Struggles of Low Sex Drive (Hyposexuality) in Bipolar Disorder

ECT: Medical Torture or Effective Treatment? (Electroconvulsive Therapy)

Unpacking Bipolar Rage: What’s Real and What’s Not

ADHD and Bipolar: Untangling the Overlap

When Friends Wish Mania Would Return

How to Talk with Your Psychiatrist: Bridging the Communication Gap

Love or Mania? Understanding the Differences with Bipolar Disorder

Doomscrolling and Bipolar: How to Break Free

Is Hypomania Controllable? Myths, Realities, and Risks

Bipolar Relapse: Personal Journey of Warning Signs, Support, and Recovery

Understanding Cyclothymia and Exploring ‘Bipolar Tendencies’

Managing Cluttered, Racing, and Disordered Thoughts

Turning Stress into Strength: Bipolar Management Strategies

Thriving at Work with Bipolar: Handling Symptoms and Setting Boundaries

Treatment-Resistant Bipolar: Myth, Misunderstanding, or Medical Fact?

When Bipolar Treatment Is Refused: What Can Loved Ones Do?

Keto for Bipolar: Cure or Craze?

Beyond Spa Days: Self-Care and the 8 Dimensions of Wellness

Top 10 Most Common Bipolar Questions Answered

Dodging Bipolar Relapse in January: Beating Holiday Havoc

Love & Marriage: Tackling Relationship Challenges with Bipolar Disorder

Self-Sabotage and Bipolar: Breaking the Cycle

Seasonal Bipolar: Can Weather Really Cause Symptoms?

Overcoming Internalized Shame and Guilt in Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Mixed Episodes: Navigating the Unthinkable

Fear of Relapse? Navigating the Lingering Shadows of Bipolar Disorder

Work-Life Balance Is a Scam: What It Really Means for Bipolar Disorder

Navigating Friendships and Support: Building a Balanced Bipolar Support System

The Impact of Menstrual Cycles and Hormonal Fluctuations on Bipolar Disorder

Answering the Overlooked: Bipolar’s Brain Changes, Vertigo, TMS, and More (From Listener Questions)

How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?

Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Embracing Positivity with Bipolar Disorder

The Truth About Resilience with Bipolar Disorder

Pinpointing Recovery: Defining ‘Regular’ Moods and Self-Directed Goals in Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Psychosis: Demons, Delusions, and Hallucinations

Psychiatry's Controversies: Overprescription, Skepticism, and Finding the Middle Ground

Signs of Progress: How to Recognize Recovery With Bipolar Disorder

Navigating the Zombie Effect: Emotional Blunting with Bipolar Disorder

Essential Questions to Ask About Your Bipolar Diagnosis and Treatment

Unmasking Imposter Syndrome: A Deep Dive into Its Origins and Impact

Unpacking the Psych Appointment: Questions, Expectations, and Outcomes

Off the Meds: Navigating Bipolar Treatment Challenges

Humor and Breaking Stigma: Joking about Bipolar Disorder

Losing Your Provider: Navigating the Therapeutic Relationship from Beginning to End

Navigating Family Support: The Partnership Paradigm with Bipolar Disorder

Busting Bipolar Myths: Uncovering the Truths Behind the Lies

Mood Stabilizers: Unraveling the Mysteries of These Medications

Speed Shift from Mania to Steady Thoughts (and How to Manage)

Exploring the Gritty and Ugly Sides of Bipolar