In the bustling environment of an emergency room, as a nurse, you encounter a diverse array of individuals. Among them, those with bipolar disorder have always held a unique place in my heart. They exhibit an array of characteristics: some hear voices, some grapple with homelessness, some possess an extraordinary sense of humor, while others love to sing and entertain. What unites them is the weight of their diagnosis, often overshadowing any other aspect of their lives. If you ask them about themselves, the response is likely to be, “Well, I have bipolar,” as though that single fact alone is the key to understanding them.
However, the term “bipolar” is not an all-encompassing explanation, especially for women contending with hormonal fluctuations. Take, for instance, a woman who underwent a hysterectomy due to severe bleeding and had to resort to hormone replacement therapy. Within a few months, she spiraled into an altered state of reality, firmly believing that she needed to relocate far away and dedicate her life to missionary work. Alarmed family members sought help for her, and she was prescribed antidepressants and, perhaps too conveniently, labeled as “bipolar.” Carrying her antidepressants with her, she embarked on a cross-country journey and ended up living on the streets with the homeless. Eventually, she was rescued by caring friends, brought back home, and, although off most medications, she still bore the weighty label of “bipolar.”
Many women experiencing menopause and its accompanying hormonal shifts may find themselves feeling adrift. But does this automatically warrant a bipolar diagnosis? The profound impact of hormones on mental health cannot be underestimated, particularly during postpartum experiences, often referred to as the ‘baby blues.’ Frequently, these emotional shifts are attributed to the hormone progesterone, a condition easily mitigated with natural progesterone cream. Likewise, both women and men may grapple with depression during their midlife hormonal upheavals. But is this really a surprise? It’s a period of immense change, akin to adolescence in reverse—new sensations, a fresh perspective on life, letting go of old habits, and grappling with new ones. Confusion abounds, accompanied by a multitude of challenging questions that demand attention. Sadly, many individuals opt for the path of least resistance and attribute their depression to bipolar disorder.
A sensible solution might be to consider common sense. Whether one has bipolar disorder or not, it’s crucial to ensure an adequate intake of essential amino acids and various sources of protein. Many people limit their protein intake to a few sources like red meat, poultry, and eggs. Dr. Eric Braverman’s book, “The Edge Effect,” underscores the importance of protein derived from diverse sources, including meat, poultry, nuts, eggs, fish, dairy, beans, and vegetables.
This dietary approach benefits everyone, especially those with bipolar disorder, regardless of its authenticity. Furthermore, dark chocolate can offer similar advantages to popular antidepressants like Prozac and Paxil, but without the unwanted side effects. Just as healthy nourishment is vital for growing children, it is equally crucial for those undergoing significant life changes or confronting challenging times. Prioritize proper nutrition and regular exercise while delving into Dr. Braverman’s “The Edge Effect.” Provide your brain with the nutrients it needs to foster optimal functioning and inner harmony. Worry less about the bipolar label and focus more on constructive self-healing.
Common sense may not be as common as we’d like, but with determination, you can find what works best for you.