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Tell me what you think or share your experiences

From the lens Bipolar Disorder And Me,Two Bears And A Lady .

Secret of Health- Buddha

  • Mia-Mia Jan 11, 2012 @ 9:47 pm | delete
    A beautiful, heartfelt story. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Best of everything to you.
  • Scarlett Allen Dec 15, 2011 @ 9:01 pm | delete
    I think it is great. Tons of information. I was only diagnosed 2 years ago and just started my own blog to help. Yours helps just as much!
  • grinagallery Dec 14, 2011 @ 4:31 am | delete
    Brilliant information. :-) I was diagnosed with Bipolar a few years back. While it didn't change my life, it definitely helped me recognise why I do some of the things I do. Thanks for sharing your perspective.
  • dismalgrin Nov 1, 2011 @ 11:16 pm | delete
    For years I lived with the diagnoses of depression and then Borderline personality disorder. 2 years ago my brother admitted to me that he was bipolar but did not receive treatment because he had no insurance and made too little money. The next day he died of a drug overdose on my kitchen floor. This past August I was diagnosed with Bipolar and I am understandably freaked out of my mind over this. Trying to get help so I don't end up down the wrong road and end up like my brother. I have to fight this if it's the last thing I do. Thank you for your lens. I will rate you and I'll be looking into your links you shared.
  • ElizabethFoster Aug 15, 2011 @ 7:34 am | delete
    I was diagnosed with bipolar two disorder and took meds for 15 years. The meds didn't help most of the time. Life was still hard. Just found out I was gluten intolerant and it completely cured me. If you do a search on bipolar two gluten intolerance you will find a lot of people who had the same experience. I am set free completely after years of isolation and I have 2 young children and am doing great.
  • WhiteOak50 Aug 5, 2011 @ 6:35 am | delete
    I am leaving you with a huge *hug* and a *Blessing*
  • dirkthedog Jun 29, 2011 @ 11:38 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing. Hang in there. I've survived at least 50 years with it--half of that time before I got a diagnoses. It's still a struggle, but I do what I have to do to keep going.
  • Russia33 Jun 21, 2011 @ 8:37 pm | delete
    I loved reading this lens. I have a friend that was diagnosed with bipolar just over a year ago, it helps to hear someone else's story.
  • smithlights Jun 15, 2011 @ 6:22 pm | delete
    Thanks so much for sharing your story and being honest. Keep it up!
  • darciefrench May 29, 2011 @ 12:36 am | delete
    I've been to this lens many times, it's helped me a lot. You're a good friend to many. Came back with a blessing, many thanks.
  • TrinaSonnenberg May 28, 2011 @ 9:40 am | delete
    My brother is bi-polar and it has really devastated his life. He would self-medicate with alcohol and that would just make things worse for him. Thank you for this awesome lens and information.
  • AddaptAbilities May 24, 2011 @ 4:02 pm | delete
    Stopped by to give this lens a Blessing!
  • priscillaB Apr 20, 2011 @ 7:26 pm | delete
    Thank you for your honesty in sharing your story!
  • 805Therapy Apr 16, 2011 @ 1:55 pm | delete
    Good info and format. I have lensrolled you with my BipolarHelp lens :)
  • LisaAuch Apr 14, 2011 @ 1:50 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing your story, i read every word and love the poems - blessed
  • LeanneChesser Apr 1, 2011 @ 12:34 pm | delete
    Thanks for sharing, Crystal. Your poetry is very powerful. Blessed. Just to let you know, the video is no longer working.
  • javrsmith Mar 18, 2011 @ 2:45 pm | delete
    Very informative lens. I have heard about bipolar but I knew very little. Your lens has been blessed and I wish you well in the future.
  • AddaptAbilities Feb 19, 2011 @ 9:32 pm | delete
    I love this lens. I've 'rolled it to a series of mental health lenses I've been working on. Thanks for sharing this with the world :)
  • adhd-bipolar-depression Jan 21, 2011 @ 2:10 am | delete
    Deep. Nice.
  • lynnericci Jan 17, 2011 @ 12:51 pm | delete
    You show a braveness by coming out and writing about this, my father suffers from this too. I know how brave you must be to let people know. Keep on sharing, the world needs to hear from people like you to know there is hope. People are not always understanding when they hear you have this.
  • Philippians468 Jan 12, 2011 @ 2:03 am | delete
    thank you for such sincere sharing! cheers
  • amandaquerque Dec 11, 2010 @ 9:21 pm | delete
    Beautiful and inspirational! I am so glad I came across this lens! You have received a Squid Angel blessing!
  • kougar Dec 11, 2010 @ 7:16 pm | delete
    Very inspiring lens. Thank-you for sharing your story.
  • hotbrain Dec 2, 2010 @ 2:11 pm | delete
    Congratulations on a great lens! I have my wings and have returned to this wonderful lens on Bipolar Disorder to bless it with my Squidoo Angel powers!
  • ................. Nov 30, 2010 @ 10:19 am | delete
    You truly are an inspiration. And you make me miss my mom (the best) who lived with bipolar mood disporder for thirty years.
  • RebeccaE Nov 5, 2010 @ 3:42 pm | delete
    you are truly an inspriration.
  • 23squidoo Oct 31, 2010 @ 1:04 am | delete
    From one with bipolar to another - wonderful job, wonderful lense, wonderful you.
  • Othercat Oct 28, 2010 @ 2:48 am | delete
    It's amazing how close the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder are to Borderline Disorder. I go through pretty much everything you do. You are an inspiration. Blessed.
  • LucyClaire Oct 27, 2010 @ 11:20 am | delete
    I understand how medication can help so in that way it is a blessing
  • dani1978 Oct 24, 2010 @ 7:07 pm | delete
    I am new to squidoo and old to bipolar you lens is great you have inspired me to go back and rework, thanksfor sharing your story.
  • ShirlW Oct 20, 2010 @ 8:49 am | delete
    Each time I visit I am tremendously moved and can relate far too well. Thank you. Today my visit is to leave an Angel Blessing for you.
  • KarenTBTEN Oct 19, 2010 @ 3:01 pm | delete
    Stopping back in to leave a SquidAngel blessing on a memorable lens.
  • Oct 9, 2010 @ 1:07 am | delete
    I had a very minor upset yesterday and I cried all night, didn't get out of bed until 2pm and I'm still in my pyjamas. And yes, my house is a mess. I don't have bipolar, my problem has another name, but I understand everything your saying. The wonderful thing is as I read your story I could feel the bands loosen and although I'm still crying it's now in a healthy way.
    So, I'm off to get out of my pyjamas, wash my face and then do the dishes. Thank you
  • LisaAuch Sep 29, 2010 @ 5:02 am | delete
    I know that feeling of sitting there crying, I do think that any way you can to express yourself whether it be writing about it, sharing it, having friends who know and understand is an important part of living with any sort of depression. Your story is wonderful, wonderful in a way that you can talk about it, and help others.
  • LoKackl Sep 9, 2010 @ 9:34 am | delete
    Amazing lens deare one. Bipolar disorder and me will help many. How articulate you are!! S/A Blessed!
  • artbymichelle Jul 29, 2010 @ 1:51 pm | delete
    What a magnificent lens! I am lensrolling with my 'Of Mood & Of Mind' & 'The Human Condition 'lenses. Thank you so much for sharing! Great lens!
  • WildFacesGallery Jul 15, 2010 @ 4:36 pm | delete
    What a wonderful lens. Thanks for sharing it and your story. There are so many people going through the same thing and your talking so openly is wonderfully helpful. Great lens. I'm not an angel but if I were I'd bless it. :)
  • WordCustard Jun 30, 2010 @ 2:56 am | delete
    Simply had to return and leave an ~*~* Angel Blessing *~*~ here.
  • windygig Jun 17, 2010 @ 10:45 pm | delete
    superior description. you rock.
  • lasertek Apr 29, 2010 @ 2:56 am | delete
    Great lens! I learned so much about the bipolar disorder. Thanks for sharing much information. 5*

    By the way, it is good to know that you are not afraid to tell people that you have an disorder.
  • BigGirlBlue Apr 22, 2010 @ 1:13 pm | delete
    Greetings! You have a lovely lens and it has been blessed.
  • Spook Apr 22, 2010 @ 8:04 am | delete
    I'm with boshemia on this all the way. Congrats and many more.
  • hefa Apr 21, 2010 @ 11:59 pm | delete
    Great lens! I only have one of the two poles.. I sometimes wish I had the other too, though not simultaneously...
  • sandyspider Apr 21, 2010 @ 11:02 pm | delete
    Congratulations on your Purple Star.
  • eclecticeducation Apr 21, 2010 @ 9:57 pm | delete
    Great lens! You are very brave to make a lens about this very important subject. I hope people will learn from you and it will help someone who needs it. Congratulations on being Purple Star Day Queen!!! How cool is that!
  • boshemia Apr 17, 2010 @ 4:13 pm | delete
    It really is about time this lens gained some purple-ness! Congrats girl!! You truly earned it on this one!
  • Norma_Budden Apr 16, 2010 @ 11:49 pm | delete
    I learned more about Bipolar Disorder by reading your lens than I had ever known before; I knew it dealt with swift mood changes but there is so much more to that simple statement than meets the eye.

    On another note, congratulations on your purple star. This lens has been featured at Even More Purple Star Awards. If you have additional purple stars, please feel free to let me know and I will add them.
  • WeddingZazzle Apr 13, 2010 @ 5:45 am | delete
    Nicely done. Thanks for sharing your personal story. Blessed by a Squid Angel :)
  • skiesgreen Apr 12, 2010 @ 10:59 pm | delete
    This is a remarkable account of a mysterious disease that so many suffer from and few know what its all about. Blessed by me and featured on my blessed lens under Me. Well done

    Norma
  • callinsky Apr 12, 2010 @ 10:43 pm | delete
    Oh, WOW, Crystal. I don't have the words. Such a brave thing you did, not letting it define you. It's very hard. You have inspired me. I have found strength in your honesty. I hope that you feel the good vibes coming at you. Thank you soooooooo very much from the bottom of my heart.
  • Airinka Apr 10, 2010 @ 11:40 am | delete
    Suitable pictures strengthen impression!
  • KathyMcGraw Apr 1, 2010 @ 11:31 am | delete
    I sat here reading this and even already knowing your story, it was still very powerful. Like I told you before, to me the real tragedy is when someone refuses to get help or even acknowledge the need to stabilize. You did a great job with this, just as you have done with so many others....Blessed by an Angel :)
  • jennabee25 Mar 30, 2010 @ 3:08 pm | delete
    Bravo!!! I'm a BPD sufferer, too and just wrote my own lens about it.
  • WordCustard Mar 5, 2010 @ 5:51 am | delete
    Your warmth and honesty, along your gift as a writer, make this a story that everyone can empathise with. Disorders of this kind can seem so frightening and isolating, until someone who has been there reaches out a hand and shares their own story. I admire you holding out yours and letting others know they are not alone.
  • Wordwinder Mar 4, 2010 @ 4:34 am | delete
    An inspiring story. I greatly respect your resolve to fight the disorder and not let it get the better of you. A very well-designed lens.
  • musicaldreamer Feb 16, 2010 @ 12:36 pm | delete
    This is so well done!!! I think my boyfriend has this and to hear from someone with experience has definitely given me more insight. Thankyou!
  • Sylvestermouse Feb 14, 2010 @ 6:02 pm | delete
    Amazing! I admire you for having the strength to seek help. So many people are too worried about what others will think that they suffer in silence. You are totally awesome! Angel Blessed and added to my Squid Angel Mouse Tracks lens.
  • Feb 3, 2010 @ 11:58 am | delete
    Very well done. I'm personally no stranger to depression and have a family member who is bipolar. It's a daily struggle. I admire your courage at sharing.
  • hotbrain Feb 3, 2010 @ 1:56 am | delete
    I really enjoyed this lens and I give it 5 stars! I especially liked the parts where you tell your story. My first doctor visit is also very memorable to me. However, in my case, my doctor thought that Bipolar was some big scary mood problem and that I just had depression/anxiety. Boy was he wrong! Later I was diagnosed with Bipolar and lithium helps me a lot. And really bipolar isn't any scarier than any other mood disorder. Contrary to the scientific studies, I think it gets better with experience :) I'm adding your lens to my lensroll on my pages about coping with Bipolar disorder and coping with depression.
  • arncyn Jan 15, 2010 @ 9:18 am | delete
    Rooting for you to win this battle forever, Crystal! You are truly an inspiration. *blessed by an angel*
  • Beautiful_GreenBeans Jan 10, 2010 @ 12:07 am | delete
    I have a good friend who struggles with Bipolar disorder and I've seen her lowest of lows and highest of highs. She stopped taking her medication last year and I am sadly watching her fall apart. I am forwarding her a link to this lens, and I hope your brave and unabashed pouring out reaches her.

    Lovely, fearless Crystal, thanks so much for sharing this great big piece of you! Awesome lens!
  • dancerene Dec 29, 2009 @ 9:47 pm | delete
    I was not aware of Bipolar Disorder but I do now. Thanks for creating the awareness and sharing your own experience.
  • Dec 11, 2009 @ 9:22 pm | delete
    Wow. excellent lens.., thank you for sharing. 5***** and favorited! well done! It explains so much about bipolar.
  • KarenTBTEN Dec 9, 2009 @ 9:37 pm | delete
    Great job making labels comprehesible! BD is not the particular label I wear, but a couple people I've been close to over the years have worn that label. I like those polar bears -- though it took me a minute to get it.
  • Roddy Nov 30, 2009 @ 2:06 pm | delete
    My sister has bipolar disorder. I thank you for the information you can provide. It is difficult to love my sister when she says hurtful things about me, my wife, and my children. I'm seeking to understand her. She is always try to protect me. I get irritated that she keeps calling my cellphone. Goodness gracious, I'm a lawyer and I have a busy day....the last thing I want sometimes is to talk to my sister. She's very persistent.
  • spirituality Nov 23, 2009 @ 2:28 am | delete
    Great lens, but you knew that :) Just wanted to remind you that this is featured on the Consciousness, Awareness, Psychology & Neurology Headquarters
    http://www.squidoo.com/groups/consciousness

    It's now transformed into a lensography and I would love it if you could show your appreciation by featuring it here, or lensrolling it or something.
  • GroovyFinds Nov 17, 2009 @ 10:07 pm | delete
    Fantastic info, thanks for sharing!
  • christy curiel Nov 9, 2009 @ 8:50 am | delete
    thanks for your information I found it very helpful I would like for you to be my friend I have had bipolar for years and the doctors still cant get my meds straight I just got out of the hospital and it still has not helped so maybe a friend would help thanks bye
  • natnickeep Nov 6, 2009 @ 11:11 pm | delete
    This was a wonderful lens! I love the poetry and humor added into what is really useful information. Something like this may make it easier for people to talk about or think about. I sometimes wonder if I might be bi polar. It seems like it is more common than we realize. I can't wait to get off to reading some of your other lenses! 5* for sure.
  • theherbivorehippie Nov 6, 2009 @ 10:54 pm | delete
    What an awesome lens! You always 'hear' about Bipolar is but no one ever explains honesty about the ups and downs first hand. I wrote a huge paper on this back in school and I think I just learned more from your lens then I did from tons of research. Thanks for your honesty. Great job! (and thank you for blessing my lens you visited today...such an honor!)
  • BizGuides Oct 31, 2009 @ 2:09 pm | delete
    Extremely Informative and Helpful. Thanks BG
  • debnet Oct 18, 2009 @ 2:42 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. I can see why you want this to be LOTD... ans so it should. Thank goodness you were able to acknowledge the fact that you needed help. I hope the future is more even for you... adn those around you! :)
    Congratulations on your Angel wings and thank you for the blessing you gave to 'When Debbie Met Tony' :)
  • grannysage Oct 17, 2009 @ 6:09 pm | delete
    What a courageous lens. You are right not to be ashamed of having this disorder. You are Not your disease. There is still a stigma attached to mental illness, but there shouldn't be. It is no different from having diabetes or a heart condition. it is a medical condition that needs to be treated.

    Thanks for standing up and telling your story. And the lens is beautiful and very informative! You are really helping a lot of people with this. And don't forget to take your medicine!!!

    Big hugs and 5*
  • 24websurf Oct 14, 2009 @ 9:24 pm | delete
    I have stayed away from this lens for fear of what I might learn, not so much about you, but about myself. I'm glad I finally made it here. As your friend, I love you.. as an Angel, I Bless you :)
  • hlkljgk Oct 12, 2009 @ 10:45 pm | delete
    very informative. thanks for sharing your story,
  • aj2008 Oct 5, 2009 @ 1:15 pm | delete
    Crystal, thank you for sharing this lens. Someone close to me who I love very much has just been diagnosed and everything has fallen in to place. Your lens helps me understand better and the links will be very helpful I am sure.

    Thank you and SquidAngel Blessings for you.
  • Sep 30, 2009 @ 10:18 pm | delete
    I was working like crazy (totally manic) trying to be "A Giant Squid" and although I featured your lens in karmasstory, I saw your video for the first time time tonight, and wanted to say how touched I am. I thought I was looking at myself, and listening to my own words. I am going to contact you privately... I would like you to be my friend, if you will. Love, Darcie
  • BipolarNutrition Sep 3, 2009 @ 8:09 pm | delete
    Excellent Lens!!! You've hit on all of the emotions, ups and downs of this disease and your thoughts really bring it to life. You are right, you do not have to go at it alone.
  • Aug 30, 2009 @ 1:18 am | delete
    Hi there, very lovely lens. Thank-you for sharing.
  • Pukeko Aug 15, 2009 @ 6:32 pm | delete
    Wonderful mix of a very serious topic with lovely poetry and a honest, personal approach making it an easy read. 5*
  • bipolar_bare Aug 11, 2009 @ 12:06 pm | delete
    Very nice lens Crystal. I like the way you have built up a progression from the very first poem to the last resourse information you provide. Each little piece builds on the other to create a beautiful whole. I think you have created something very accessible to people who have bipolar disorder and to people who want to understand the illness. Bravo.
  • LizMac60 Jul 25, 2009 @ 2:41 am | delete
    Hi Crystal, I am bipolar too. I guess I ought to write a lens on it too, as all our stories are different, but with similarities. I guess it is more part of our nature to tell our story than it is for others with different disorders. I wish you well in life as you continue to manage your medication. Thanks for telling your story. I guess it cold help someone not yet diagnosed. 5 stars and I'll lens roll you to my lens A bit about me, where I mention in passing that I am bi-polar
  • lakeerieartists Jul 21, 2009 @ 8:15 pm | delete
    What a moving lens. Having suffered from depression myself, I know part of what you are going through. Blessed by an Angel.
  • sharpturn Jul 20, 2009 @ 4:51 am | delete
    Such an honest and emotional lens. I totally understand the pains of depression and what it can do to a persons life.

    I applaud you for this lens.

    Thank you,

    Andy
  • Ladydove62 Jul 8, 2009 @ 9:00 pm | delete
    This lens brought tears to my eyes. It is 5 star exceptional.
  • ParthenaB Jun 29, 2009 @ 5:54 pm | delete
    Wow - not only beautifully done - your lens has everything from sentiment to humor. I've been diagnosed with clinical depression and one doctor thinks I'm bi-polar - I haven't found a magic bullet yet and I'm okay with accepting myself as just plain crazy sometimes - and also as just me.

    You might enjoy this lens and may even find it helpful:

    http://www.squidoo.com/adult-attachment-disorder

    Five stars, and I'm lensrolling you as well. Be blessed.
  • qlcoach Jun 18, 2009 @ 5:52 pm | delete
    Wonderful lens. Thanks for being so honest and open about your challenges. I loved the way you presented your information. Also I appreciate the kind words you left on my lens too. Peace and Blessings....Gary.
  • Jun 13, 2009 @ 9:50 pm | delete
    I really like this lens 5 stars.
  • inkserotica Jun 12, 2009 @ 3:03 pm | delete
    Although I don't have Bipolar (I have Depression) I can relate a lot to what you have said here; the type of person you are and how you react to situations :) You have a told a very brave story! 5*
  • sisterra Jun 5, 2009 @ 4:54 pm | delete
    Truly Fantastic lens from a fellow bipolar. :)
  • shawner Jun 3, 2009 @ 8:57 pm | delete
    Im quite new to squidoo but I must say this is the best lens i have ever read. Your poetry is amazing and I can relate in a way to alot of the things you talk about as i also have a mental illness. Thanks so much for sharing.
  • cjsysreform May 30, 2009 @ 7:32 am | delete
    Fantastic work. Your poem "just a little pill" struck a chord with me; I used to tell myself all those same things to justify my abuse of cocaine. Don't I deserve to be happy for once... etc.

    Ten years ago I was misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder (my real problems were substance abuse, depression and complex PTSD). The doctor prescribed Depakote to treat my so-called mania... it was a disaster. Based on that experience, I would guess that mood stabilizers must be hard to tolerate even when you do have genuine bipolar disorder.

    5* for this exceptional lens.
  • LaraineRose May 30, 2009 @ 3:29 am | delete
    I have to agree with the other comments here. Great information and a unique looking format. Thank you for sharing your experience, poems and knowledge. 5*s
  • chefkeem May 27, 2009 @ 9:32 pm | delete
    Blessed, of course. Thank you for your powerful sharing. :-)
    BTW, the comment captcha is a word I haven't seen before in this place..."powerful"...(theme from "Twilight Zone")
  • Hotchachonia May 27, 2009 @ 3:28 pm | delete
    Words from the heart - wonderful lens. I love your poetry! You've inspired me to add some of my own to my (first) lens sometime (/wifeofdepression). It's wonderful that you are able to express your feelings so well through poetry. I wonder if passionate creativity is a positive effect of BP?

    I'm lensrolling this one and adding it to my favorites.
  • davidstillwagon May 22, 2009 @ 4:51 pm | delete
    what a great heartfelt lens! I love the way it is laid out and the graphics are terrific.
  • spirituality May 13, 2009 @ 9:12 am | delete
    Great lens - blessed by a squidangel :)
  • RickyRobi May 4, 2009 @ 12:08 pm | delete
    I think you have done a wonderful job of explaining not just the medical terms, but how the illness affects a person and everyone around them. My grandmother has it, and was not told she had it until in her 40's. Back when you were not told your diagnosis so if you moved or changed doctors, you would have to start all over again. My grandmother moved a lot as a child and as an adult as my grandfather is a preacher. Once she found out what it was, it changed her just knowing it was something real. There are no secrets now. We openly talk about it. She will even openly talk about her dementia. Secrets do not help you get better. To function in life you need knowledge and understanding.
  • lollyj Apr 23, 2009 @ 6:16 pm | delete
    This is an exceptional lens in every way -- lots of helpful info, nicely presented. You did some excellent work here. I have dissociative disorder but refuse to let it define me, too.
    5, fave, lensroll for this awesome lens.
  • lwhitelaw Apr 16, 2009 @ 1:28 pm | delete
    Great lens - it's beautifully laid out and you've shared lots of useful information for others with this disorder. Thanks for stopping by my clutter lens too!
  • Jacqui Apr 14, 2009 @ 2:06 pm | in reply to SuperDad26 | delete
    Many thanks for your response. I made an appt for mon 2oth April and I shall let you know how it went. Best wishes
  • SuperDad26 Apr 13, 2009 @ 8:59 pm | delete
    Hi Crystal,

    How was your Easter? Ours was pretty good. The children had a lot of fun. I want you to know that the things you have said to me. and the things I have read on your lens, have far widened my understanding of bipolar. I am trying harder to understand and love my wife. So I just wanted to drop a thank you
  • SuperDad26 Apr 13, 2009 @ 8:56 pm | in reply to Jacqui | delete
    Jacqui, my heart goes out to you and your situation. I will keep you in my prayers.

    My wife goes through the same complications that you have described. She was diagnosed with bipolar about 9 months ago, but we knew for a few years before that, that there was a problem. Everything that you describe would seem to fit the bipolar category, and I encourage you to seek help. You are not alone out there, nor is your husband. Squidoo is such a great website, for getting encouragement, although professional help will be required. I have been on for only a couple of weeks and am amazed at how different I look at bipolar now. We are here to support you and your husband, for we all need love, encouragement, and someone neutral to your situation who can listen. I have a lens describing my journey with my wife who is bipolar. I encourage you and your husband to check it out at Coping with a Bipolar Spouse

    Michael
  • tweety0126 Apr 13, 2009 @ 8:45 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing; this is a great lens. Seems you may be helping other people to deal with the same problems, which I think is wonderful. 5* from me.
  • Jacqui Apr 11, 2009 @ 2:50 pm | in reply to bipolar_bare | delete
    HI, I am pretty sure I am bi-polar and I will make an appointment to see a,
    psychiatrist I make them and don't keep them, I have done that for years make appts and cancel them. I was diagnosed with PTSS a few years ago. I have had panic attacks for about 10 yrs that I remember, I was given xanax.. I have had so many jobs it's horrifying. I'll start and then I just can't cope and I leave, I don't even know what it is that makes me leave. In the last month I have 2 interviews and got both jobs. I started one did one day and then quit. I get days when I can't even explain what I feel the words won't form, if my husband asks I just freeze inside and I go into th bedroom where I stay most of the time. I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism 2 years ago after 6 months of misdiagnosis. At the same time my best friend lost her battle with cancer and my best friend in England had massive heart attack and diedorry I am really down
  • bipolar_bare Apr 8, 2009 @ 9:42 pm | delete
    This is a wonderful lens! You have a lot of great information here. I also have a lens on living with bipolar disorder and would love for you to visit. Be sure to say hello when you stop by!
  • BigGirlBlue Mar 31, 2009 @ 2:07 pm | delete
    I have to agree with the other comments here. Great information and a unique looking format. I'm sure many will feel some camaraderie reading this lens. Best wishes
  • SuperDad26 Mar 30, 2009 @ 11:31 am | delete
    Hi Crystal,

    How are you today? I've been looking through some of you links and they are very helpful to me. So I appreciate the time spent gathering this info. I had a problem yesterday that I ended up writing about in my lens. Its a new text block called Through the eyes of a child. I would appreciate your feedback on it because it is something I need to understand more thoroughly. Anybody with experience about raising children in a Bipolar torn home please visit my lens and leave feedback. I would truly appreciate it. And if your new please rank and let me know what I can do to make the sight more helpful. Thank you.

    Michael
  • Wysiwigs Mar 30, 2009 @ 4:44 am | delete
    How wonderful to share your story with others! Lovely lens with some great information on this difficult (and often unaddressed) disorder. 5*
    Http://www.Squidoo.com/ConnieCrankpot
  • ZBT Mar 29, 2009 @ 4:59 pm | delete
    You had me at ... your Intro! This lens is truly beautiful. Your commitment to sharing your story with everyone displays what I attribute to a wonderful person (you) that is so open and so caring, and so WILLING to go out on a limb just to help others. I hope like heck this lens is strongly considered, and of course chosen, as an upcoming Lens of the Day. You are something else, Crystal; and I mean that, in a good way!
  • SuperDad26 Mar 29, 2009 @ 11:12 am | delete
    Lol. I did not put the Ludwig together with drums for you. I was actually thinking it meant Beethoven. But yeah I currently own a nice black pearl drum set, but my mom's church is using it. So yeah, I grew up around music, and it definitely helps the mind I think. Even playing helps soothe or calm my spirit. Anyways how's it going this weekend? Mine is actually going pretty good. I used some of the things you had said on my lens and am maybe starting to understand my wife a bit more. Talk to you later.

    Michael
  • SuperDad26 Mar 27, 2009 @ 8:37 pm | delete
    Hey Crystal. Thank you for your support. It's nice to actually talk to someone who deals with it and it seems like you have a decent grasp on the situation. I can't get my wife to really open up at all anymore these days. She's gotten to where she is really mean and just won't stop. So some insight from you is really nice. You probably understand how my wife feels, so maybe you can help me understand. Or anybody for that matter that reads this post. Thanks again.
  • SuperDad26 Mar 27, 2009 @ 10:41 am | delete
    Hi Crystal.

    I commend your courage on taking the bull known as bipolar by the horns. I love your site and the info you have included. And I too also deal with bipolar. Except I deal with it from the opposite side of a spouse who is almost uncontrollable. Taking the steps you did on your own was amazing. My wife is now 24. She knows she needs help and has gotten it several times. She will do good for month or so, but then she feels the same way most folks dealing with bipolar do. Why take this pill when I feel good now. My wife was diagnosed a year and a half ago, with bipolar, obsessive compulsive disorder, and a type of personality disorder. It hit me like a ton of bricks. Several times she has been on her medicine only to stop. And each time I know that hell is right around the corner. So I say thank you for taking the steps and having the courage to help yourself. Being healthy for your husband and children is obviously important to you. Please view my story under my name. Thanks
  • sittonbull Mar 25, 2009 @ 1:30 pm | delete
    Crystal this is such a great lens and thank you for sharing your story! I have great admiration and respect for anyone who is meeting their challenges in a courageous and proactive manner like you are. I am including you in a featured lens module on my new lens about Inspiration and Determination. Haven't yet figured out how I'm gonna get everybody's story in, but I will. 5*s and a favorite and hey... I can lensroll it too :-) !
  • WendyKrick Mar 19, 2009 @ 9:41 pm | delete
    What a wonderful lens. Thanks for sharing.
  • Heather426 Mar 19, 2009 @ 3:25 pm | delete
    You are so creative! great lens, 5*
  • JustBon-Crochet-Designs Mar 18, 2009 @ 12:31 am | delete
    Great resource! Lots of useful and interesting info. 5*s.
  • sandyspider Mar 17, 2009 @ 7:44 pm | delete
    Great lens. Very informative. Depression is one of the most misunderstood disease. I'm glad you are sharing this.
  • Lien Mar 17, 2009 @ 8:45 am | delete
    I have suffered massive bouts of depression in the past but I don't have Bipolar Disorder. Such an inspirational read and very moving.
  • luvmyludwig Feb 24, 2009 @ 7:33 am | in reply to dave | delete
    I appreciate you visiting my lens, but your assumption "I feel like much of the info is someone elses work." is completely wrong. This lens is 100% my work. I don't see how anyone can come to a different conclusion. I chose not to make this lens any longer because of effectiveness and purpose I have for it.
    I feel that knowing ones personal triggers is important, but I don't feel a need to add mine to this lens. My personal experience is at the bottom portion of this lens. Sure there are other details, but once again I have chosen to share portions of my personal experience rather than every detail. I am using this lens as an introduction to bipolar disorder and to bring awareness. I don't feel every detail of my life would serve my purpose better.My disorder is fairly new to me , so like I stated at the bottom, it is an ongoing process and I am always learning.As for being monitored, I think self monitoring is most important. once again thank you for visiting.
  • dave Feb 23, 2009 @ 11:26 pm | delete
    thanks for sharing a bit of your story.
    I have experienced this illness thru a workmate of mine who struggled with it.
    As I was his closed friend at work, it was up to me to help monitor his moods and make sure he was taking his selenium.
    His triggers seemed to be stress, too much alcohol bad weather and sci fi thriller or horror movies!
    You may laugh but he often had episodes lasting a few days to a week after mixing all or some of these things culminating in a stay in the mental ward at the hospital in which he underwent enforced bed rest and sedation.
    Your lens is a great start but I feel like much of the info is someone elses work.
    I would be interested in knowing the things that are your triggers
    and a bit more of your personal experience. Has your illness changed over time? How do your family deal with it? Do you have someone monitoring you in your family? thanks, dave
  • BusyQueen Feb 13, 2009 @ 2:45 pm | delete
    Great lens. Very Informative on an illness that touches all of our lives! 5 Stars
  • julcal Feb 10, 2009 @ 8:43 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story. Yes, I've been told that bipolars are not only creative but smarter than the average bear :)

    An overdose of a homeopathic medicine sent me into a major depression, so I can relate, I think, to that side of it. And I was married to a bipolar, so I saw that side of it. Very difficult to live with. You're sure making the most of it!

    Well done, all around *****
  • Monkeyfish Feb 9, 2009 @ 11:10 pm | delete
    Thank you for your honesty and willingness to share your story. I believe that stigma could be erased of more people "came out of the closet" about mental illness.
  • marsha32 Feb 9, 2009 @ 1:58 pm | delete
    nice to meet you. I have an online friend, who originally found me and my email address through my website. She is bi polar and we've emailed back and forth to each other now for 3 years.
  • spirituality Feb 9, 2009 @ 7:16 am | delete
    Great lens. I hope I said that before. (rated it earlier though). Anyhow, I think it suits my new Consciousness, neurology and psychology group just great. Please join :)
  • luvmyludwig Feb 4, 2009 @ 7:49 am | in reply to OhMe | delete
    Thank you for sending BJ my way, I was hoping to find out how she came to find my lens. Also thank you for your kind words on many of my lenses. I don't always reply to each and every comment, but I appreciate every one of them.
  • luvmyludwig Feb 4, 2009 @ 7:46 am | in reply to bj | delete
    Thank you for taking the time out to read my story and thank you for stressing the importance of NAMI. I have yet to get my loved ones to take the course. My husband's work schedule prevents him from taking it right now, but I am lucky because he is very understanding and patient with me. I hope that your relative is doing well. It is so good to know that there are people out there who care as much as you do. It is hard to love a person with Bipolar Disorder sometimes and it is even harder to love a person with Bipolar Disorder actively and not from a distance, so it's admirable that you do. If every person with Bipolar Disorder had just a handful of people like you, the quality of life would improve beyond measure for members of the Bipolar Community ( and other brain/mood disorders). I only hope this lens helps others, it is my main goal for this series of lenses. It is so hard to write about sometimes.......... Thank you once again for your time and kindness.
  • OhMe Feb 4, 2009 @ 7:22 am | in reply to bj | delete
    Crystal, BJ is a longtime friend of mine and she is very sincere with her words. This lens with your story will help many along the way and you should be very proud of the work you have done.
  • bj Feb 4, 2009 @ 6:14 am | delete
    Thank you so much for sharing your story, Crystal. Thank you for sharing your great gifts of writing poetry and prose in a way that touches peoples' hearts. I have a beloved relative who has struggled with this brain disorder for many years. Before NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) came into my life, I was a hindrance to my loved one. Now I know what great courage it takes to get out of bed and face the day. For family members, partners, significant others who are caregivers, I highly recommend taking the free, 12 week NAMI Family-to-Family Education Course. It is for those caregivers who have relatives diagnosed with severe depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and those with a dual diagnosis of one of the above combined with substance abuse. Go to NAMI.org and there is a wealth of information for anyone who is living with, or loves someone with a mental illness. Crystal, you will never know how many you have helped.
  • Joan4 Feb 3, 2009 @ 5:54 pm | delete
    Thank you for sharing your story! So many people need to hear about your trials and your success! Your poetry is so expressive! Lensrolling to Beat the Blues.
  • OhMe Feb 3, 2009 @ 4:04 pm | delete
    Crystal, this is an amazing lens and will touch many people. I appreciate your sharing your story and am sharing it with friends and I did Digg it, too. Your poetry really touched me, too. You are an inspiration.
  • EverythingMouse Feb 3, 2009 @ 1:47 pm | delete
    I am very glad to have found your lenses. Again this is so well written. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
  • boshemia Jan 31, 2009 @ 11:53 pm | delete
    Excellent lens, I have a best friend that is bipolar, and loving her isn't always easy but it is always interesting. I've loved her for eight years now, and I'll never stop. Sharing your story certainly helps. I lensrolled this to "learning to live with yourself."
  • Susan52 Jan 24, 2009 @ 3:57 pm | delete
    Very well done. Amazing the far-reaching impact this lens could have. Your honesty shows through. Great job!
  • lisadh Jan 20, 2009 @ 11:51 pm | delete
    Thanks for your honesty. Well done.
  • mbgphoto Jan 19, 2009 @ 1:33 pm | delete
    Very good lens. Thanks for opening your heart and sharing your story.
  • thesuccess Jan 19, 2009 @ 9:15 am | delete
    Important Lens and I like the Polar Bear Joke!
  • netventurer Jan 19, 2009 @ 2:10 am | delete
    Great lens. You deserve 5 stars for this one. Much helpful information.
  • kiwisoutback Jan 17, 2009 @ 6:09 pm | delete
    Great work. Bipolar disorder seems much more common than most people might think--I've worked with quite a few people that have had it. Some dealt with it well, while others didn't. The ones that did not usually refused treatment. Thanks for sharing your story, this should be a great inspiration for anyone suffering this difficult disorder. 5 *'s!
  • sonia5880 Jan 17, 2009 @ 10:46 am | delete
    My ex-boyfriend suffers with Bipolar Disorder. Through our struggles I've done a lot of research myself to try to understand the disorder and why he feels/acts the way he does. Most people do not understand it and think it a cop out for their actions. I truly feel for those afflicted and their loved ones as it can be very destructive in all areas of their lives and ours. It's critical that they seek treatment (medical or alternative) to help them lead productive lives, although, it's very hard just to get someone with Bipolar Disorder to seek treatment or to find ways of managing its symptoms. Thank you for sharing your story!
    You might find it helpful to visit my lenses on Bipolar Disorder Signs & Symptoms and Proven Natural Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
  • lisasboutique Jan 17, 2009 @ 12:08 am | delete
    I love your lens. I have a Bipolar Mum and have to live with the after effects of it all the time. I am a Mum who has five boys and every single day it goes through my mind, do i have a chance of passing this onto my boys at all? It is a topic that is close to my heart, thank you for sharing your thoughts on your life with bipolar.
  • Alex_Ledgister Jan 16, 2009 @ 4:13 am | delete
    Very beautiful and informative lens. I have no idea what it really was until now thanks to you. Keep up the good work with your self and never quit.

    Alex Ledgister
    http://www.squidoo.com/AlexLedgister
  • Treasures-By-Brenda Jan 15, 2009 @ 6:28 am | delete
    Well written lens. Your story is beautiful.

    Brenda
  • nightbear Jan 14, 2009 @ 11:26 pm | delete
    Your lens is very sensitive and beautiful. Your poetry lets us look into the soul of someone with this disorder. I loved it. I lensrolled your lens into some of my medical lenses. Thank you for sharing.
  • Barrowlass Jan 14, 2009 @ 11:44 am | delete
    I think you did a great job on the lens, love your poetry too!:) Keep up the good work, you're lens will help others and that's a good thing....making it will probably help you also!
  • spirituality Jan 13, 2009 @ 12:23 pm | delete
    Great lens. Hope you continue to master it.
  • luvmyludwig Jan 12, 2009 @ 6:58 am | delete
    thank you both for stopping by. I am being treated and doing wonderfully. I will write more about that for the lens later
  • hexagon Jan 12, 2009 @ 3:25 am | delete
    5* for your beautiful poems. "Riding the kite of manic depression" - lovely.
  • elishadavis Jan 12, 2009 @ 3:18 am | delete
    nice lens. hope you get better soon.

by

luvmyludwig

My name is Crystal (luvmyludwig on squidoo and many other places). I am a 27 year old mother of two. My two boys, ages 8 and 2, are the lights of my life.... more »

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