Mind Matters on Bipolar - with KJ

Behind smiling depression. You Matter.

A quick thought on why it's important to use your voice.

Overt and covert strategies are losing strategies, yet humans all use them. Recognizing what they are and why we use them, helps us to self-confront and utilize better strategies, especially when symptomatic

I have been in a depressive episode. I've had to remind myself that any thoughts of not mattering are the illness talking. I wanted to remind you that if you're in the thick of it, I promise the clouds will eventually part, and that you are meant to be here. You matter. 

This episode addresses anger and irritability. The key is committing to assertion rather than aggression.

In this episode I discuss 3 different communication models.  Visual links can be found here:1.) 4 Horsemen- Gottmanhttps://www.gottman.com/blog/the-four-horsemen-recognizing-criticism-contempt-defensiveness-and-stonewalling/2.)Listening- Gottmanhttps://static1.squarespace.com/static/55bbdcf9e4b0c50a1d8402c7/t/5bc4cf210d92979df65514b5/1539624737634/Gottman+Rapoport.pdf3.) DBT skillhttps://dbt.tools/interpersonal_effectiveness/dear-man.php

This episode is all about Differentiation, the ability to be a unique individual while staying connected to others who think differently than you do. 

In this first of three series I talk about the importance of finding a stable baseline to function in the world as a foundation for good relationships.

In this episode I explore the difference between being symptomatic and  going through life's hard times.  We all go through hard times, managing bipolar  through hard times is completely possible if you know what your baseline is and work with your Doctors and therapists to maintain a good baseline through life's challenges.

I've talked about PMDD (Pre-mentstrual dysphoric order) many times, but today I had the honor of bringing on a guest who has helped me more than anyone else ever has with this condition.Although not bipolar, it is sometimes misdiagnosed as bipolar because of the mood swings. I hope you will become more educated on this topic even if you yourself do not suffer from PMDD.

When we hinge our self worth on accomplishments our mental health suffers. Mental health isn't a one time enlightenment.  It's a lifetime of practice.

Today I had on a very special guest -Leanne Hawken, who is a Board certified behavior analyst.  We discussed some of the differences between therapy and coaching. Hope you enjoy.   

I explain why understanding this concept will help you to stop compounding your pain.

Off the cuff, here are my ramblings about Britney, the conservatorship, medications and more.

In this episode I discuss what PMDD stands for and why it is sometimes mistaken for bipolar disorder.

In this episode I discuss with my husband the different view points people have about bipolar.

These are five areas that I focus on in the management of my illness.1. Sleep Hygiene2. Medication3. Outpatient Team4. Therapy Concepts5. Trigger Awareness 

Just a day in the life of a woman with bipolar disorder who signed up for a pageant.

Today I talk about signing up for the Mrs. Utah pageant and my platform on Bipolar Awareness.

Today I briefly explain the 10 cognitive distortions anyone can fall into.  You don't need to be mentally ill to fall into these traps.

Up until now I've given a lot of technical jargon, but now it's time to get more personal. Here's my story.

Today's episode shares perspectives on bipolar from LCSW Tasia Roth.

In this episode we hear from Kristen's husband of 16 years. This episode can be found on Youtube under "Mind Matters with KJ".

This episode gives a textbook explanation of the difference between Bipolar 1 and  Bipolar 2 according to the DSM5.

You can find this episode on YOUTUBE under "Mind Matters with KJ".  I talk about what stigma is, why it's harmful, and why so many are working towards eliminating it.