Connectedness and Resiliency While Living with Bipolar Disorder Hi, I’m John McManamy and I live with Bipolar Disorder. I’m both an author and advocate. I’m here with you today to share it with you what I’ve learn about connectedness and resilience. Let’s get started. No man is an island. We are social beings. We can’t do it alone. Experts across all fields of human endeavor are in the anonymous agreement. We are a lot healthier and a lot happier when we are actively engaged with others. But in our case there’s a major catch. Those of use would mood disorders are the dangerous tendency to isolate. Dealing with people is often a challenge. We will retreat and withdraw from the world. This is the beginning of a destructive cycle. We grow rusty in our social skills, which makes our next social encounter even more of a challenge. Now, we really don’t want to see people. In this state of isolation, it is very easy for depression to overtake us. We become further isolated further depressed. Yes, it is important to have time to yourself but we also need to get out of the house. When we are depressed this is the last thing we want to do but this is the time we need to be doing it. Reach out to friends and family. Find the activities you can do with others. The more you were able to get out, the better you will feel. Yes, you maybe fearful. After all, we are all vulnerable. But we are also resilient. Take a chance. Make mistakes. Fall down seven times but get up eight. You may want to start by reaching out seeking out of support group. This is a safe environment. Google DBSA for a support group near you. you may also need to contact a therapist who can help you work through your fears and anxieties. I cannot stress enough the vital importance of connecting with others. Please make the effort. In the meantime, do your own research. Reach out to others and establish a good relationship with your doctor and therapist. Find support and become your own expert patient and advocate. This is John McManamy. For more information visit Google and type in Bipolar Connect. Thank you for watching and be well.