Everything is wobbly at the moment. I’ve cut back on one of my medications, because it was making me dopey and fat... but now, I’ve lost some weight and I’m more alert but the world is falling apart around me and I can't quite catch hold of the pieces. My doctor is away and I don’t want to need the public health system because the last time I did, this is what happened. I really don’t want to go there again. So I plan to get better. Yup, that’s the plan. Er... it’s not a very specific plan yet...
Posted by Fionnaigh at September 16, 2004 01:55 AMHi Fionnaigh,
I read your longest blog in the world right through to the end and I just thought I would write and lend my moral support.
I have had bipolar disorder since I was 16 and I have also had one horrific experience with the public health system.
I would just like to say that there is hope. I enjoy a rich and wonderful life, with only the occasional bout of illness. It's taken a long time to find the right medication for me, but now I have been well for nearly two years. I find that being bipolar makes me a better writer and a wild and bizarre poet ;-)
You sound like a creative and imaginative person with a lot to offer the world. Take out your pen and write your way through the bad times.
Stay home, stay safe and eat a banana - they're very calming :-)
It can also be good to get to know one other doctor at the same surgery as your doctor - that way you have someone else who knows you - a backup plan for when your doctor is away.
Posted by: Rachel at September 16, 2004 02:36 PMHang in there, my friend. If you navigated those rocky waters last year, you can do anything. As they say (and I hope THEY're right) this too shall pass.
Posted by: Robin at September 16, 2004 02:48 PMHey Fionnagh, I wonder if you might be interested in Christian author Leeanne Payne, her book "Restoring the Christian Soul" is a deep exploration of healing broken people. It's a modern classic, (also recommed "The Healing Presence").
These gentle books explain how the spiritual power associated with various ancient church rituals can effect deep psychological healing. I write from personal experience ...
Posted by: robertp at September 17, 2004 01:07 PM