Inside Bipolar
Inside Bipolar is a weekly conversation show hosted by Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist. Together they explore the spectrum of this widely misunderstood illness using real-world examples and the latest research. Episodes break down symptoms, treatment options, relationships, stigma, and everyday coping strategies, with a light touch of humor to keep the discussion engaging. The show has won Signal Awards and been recognized as a Webby Honoree, and it serves as a practical resource for people with bipolar disorder, their families, and anyone wanting a better understanding of mental health.
Episodes
What Is Happiness When You Live With Bipolar Disorder?
What does happiness actually feel like when you live with bipolar disorder? And how do you know when feeling really good is healthy happiness instead of hypomania or mania?
In today’s episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle a deceptively complicated question: Are people with bipolar disorder allowed to chase happiness and excitement, or should they be focuse
Is the Mental Health System Broken? What Bipolar Patients Need to Know
The mental health system can feel confusing, frustrating, and sometimes downright impossible to navigate—especially when you live with bipolar disorder. But what if the problem isn't that the system is “broken,” what if it was simply designed for something different?
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington take an honest look at how the mental health system
Stopping Obsessive Thoughts with Bipolar Disorder
Obsessive thoughts and chronic worry can make it difficult to relax, sleep, enjoy relationships, or even stay present in everyday life. But what does it actually mean when someone says they’re having “obsessive thoughts,” and what can they do to break the cycle?
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington explore the difference between everyday worry, excessive
Trusting AI with Your Bipolar Care: What You Should Know
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing how we search for information, make decisions, and even seek mental health support. But can AI therapy safely help people living with bipolar disorder?
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington explore the potential benefits and risks of using artificial intelligence for bipolar management. They discuss why people may
Misdiagnosis: What If You Suspect You Don’t Have Bipolar Disorder?
Many people wonder whether their bipolar diagnosis is correct. Maybe your symptoms don't match what you've learned. Maybe other circumstances — like trauma or substance use — better explain what you've experienced. Or maybe you've simply never felt confident that bipolar disorder is the accurate diagnosis. Where do you go from here?
In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar, and board
Bipolar Hacks to Live Better and Thrive
You don't need a miracle cure to manage bipolar disorder—sometimes the smallest changes can have the biggest impact. Discover practical bipolar hacks that can help you recognize mood episodes earlier, reduce everyday stress, build healthier routines, and make life a little easier.
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington share practical, evidence-in
Coping Skills to Stop Impulsive Behaviors
Living with bipolar disorder often means navigating a minefield of impulsive thoughts and actions. For example, have you ever made a snap decision that you immediately regretted?
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington dive deep into the chaotic reality of bipolar impulsivity. They discuss the critical difference between having an impulsive personality and
Self-Esteem in Bipolar: The Hidden Issue No One Talks About
Why is it so easy to believe that every setback, unfinished task, messy room, or missed opportunity means you're failing? And why do so many people living with bipolar disorder automatically assume that everyone else has life figured out?
After receiving an email from a listener managing feelings of worthlessness, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle one of the mo
Hypomania: The Mood State Few People Fear—But Should
For many, a surge of energy, creativity, and expansive mood can feel like an absolute gift. For those living with bipolar disorder, a hypomanic episode feels less like a symptom and more like winning the mental health lottery. But beneath this romanticized exterior lies a sneaky and potentially destructive reality.
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington br
Navigating the ‘Fear of Fear’ Cycle of Panic Attacks with Bipolar
What if the anxiety you're facing isn’t bipolar disorder alone — but the fear of what might happen next?
With humor, honesty, and practical insight, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, shares devastatingly real stories — including the panic attack that caused him to quit a job from the parking lot. Along the way, Dr. Nicole explains the critical differences between anxiety, panic attack
Is it Anxiety, Bipolar, or Both? (And How to Tell the Difference)
It is a common misconception that anxiety is just part of the package when you live with bipolar disorder. While anxiety can certainly be a symptom of a mood episode, for many people, it is its own distinct, comorbid diagnosis.
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar and anxiety) and Dr. Nicole Washington get real about the overlap between bipolar disorder and anxiety. Dr. Nicole exp
When Joy Goes Missing: Understanding Anhedonia in Bipolar Disorder
Are you no longer experiencing pleasure or joy in day-to-day life? If you are living with bipolar disorder, you know the crushing weight of the “nothingness” — that specific, hollow moment where the things that used to define happiness suddenly feel like chores. This may not be a bad mood or a lack of discipline; it could be a clinical symptom known as anhedonia.In this episode, Gabe Howard (who l
Can I Stop My Bipolar Meds? Cold Turkey vs Tapering
"Do I have to take these meds forever?" It’s the most common question psychiatrists hear, but the answer is rarely a simple yes or no. In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (living with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (board-certified psychiatrist) dive into the risks, the realities, and the honest conversations most doctors avoid when it comes to stopping bipolar medication.
They break down why
BONUS: Headlines of Horror: Schizophrenia Portrayals in News Media
Bonus Episode of "Inside Schizophrenia" podcast from Healthline Media.
“Paranoid schizophrenic admits to attacking dog walker.” When we watch a horror movie, we know the “madman” on screen is a work of fiction. But when the nightly news leads with a diagnosis to explain a tragedy, the fear it creates is very real — and often permanent.Why does the media lead with schizophrenia only when the st
Solo Parenting with Bipolar: Staying Stable as a Single Parent
Are you living with bipolar and a single parent or managing a household alone? Have you been told things like sleep hygiene (as an example) is a pillar of stability, but your teenager’s late-night schedule and the on-call pressure of solo parenting make that feel impossible?
In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board-certified psychiatrist) resp
Getting to Work with Bipolar: Excel at the Job and Live Better
"What jobs are suitable for someone living with bipolar disorder?" It’s a question that floods our inbox, and the answer might surprise you: almost every single one. From high-powered criminal defense attorneys to surgeons and CEOs, people are nailing it in the workforce every day while managing a bipolar diagnosis.
In this episode, hosts Gabe Howard (diagnosed with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washin
Physical Health and Bipolar: How to Live Better and Longer
Studies suggest people with bipolar disorder die 25 years younger than the general population. It’s a statistic that hits like a "thump to the chest," but is it a death sentence or a wake-up call — and is it even true?
In this episode, host Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a board certified psychiatrist) peel back the curtain on the physical toll of living with a se
When Emotions Are Mistaken for Bipolar Symptoms
If everything you do is labeled a symptom of bipolar disorder, do you ever get to be yourself? In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington tackle one of the most frustrating — and rarely discussed — realities of living with bipolar disorder: when regular human behavior gets pathologized by friends, family, and even well-meaning suppo
Paranoia in Bipolar: Anxiety vs. Psychosis
Paranoia is one of the most misunderstood symptoms in bipolar disorder — and using the wrong word can delay the right treatment. Using real-life examples, this episode explains how psychosis in bipolar disorder is typically tied to mood episodes, how paranoid delusions form, and why people experiencing them often don’t report symptoms.
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder
The ‘Inside Bipolar’ Experiment: Why This Wasn’t Supposed to Work
This episode was never supposed to exist. Mental health “rules” say patients and psychiatrists shouldn’t share power, shouldn’t speak publicly as equals, and definitely shouldn’t build a show together. Yet here we are — over 100 episodes in, winning awards, and recording our first-ever in-person episode.
In this special behind-the-scenes conversation, we pull back the curtain on “Inside Bipolar”:
Bipolar Advocacy 101: From Political Change to Family Boundaries
Advocacy isn’t yelling, protesting, or going viral — and for people with bipolar disorder, doing it the wrong way can actually make things worse. In this episode, we break down what real, effective advocacy actually looks like, starting where the stakes are highest: your everyday life and expanding to social and political activism — covering everything in between.
From setting boundaries with fam
From Panic to Peace: Self-Calming Tactics for Bipolar Disorder
Being told to “calm down” has never calmed anyone down — especially if you are experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder. In this surprisingly funny episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington break down why the world’s most common advice backfires… and what truly helps instead.
Whether you’re spiraling at 2 a.m., overwhelmed in your car, or suddenly flooded w
Traveling with Bipolar: Tips That Actually Work
Traveling is supposed to be fun — but when you live with bipolar disorder, even a short trip can disrupt sleep, routines, and stability. In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington get honest about why vacations can feel overwhelming, how to plan without fear, and the exact safeguards that make travel not just possible, but enjoyable.From jet lag to family expec
Addressing Racial & Ethnic Groups in Bipolar Care: Stigma and Misdiagnosis Exposed
The mental health system didn’t start out fair — and in many ways, it still isn’t. In this powerful episode, Dr. Nicole Washington sits down with fellow psychiatrist Dr. Leesha Ellis-Cox to unpack the long, painful history that continues to shape the experiences of Black Americans seeking mental health care. From the horrifying “diagnosis” of drapetomania in the 1800s to the Tuskegee Syphilis Stud
Parenthood, Choice, and Bipolar: Reproductive Justice Explain
People with mental illness, including bipolar disorder, have long been denied the right to make their own reproductive choices. This episode looks at how psychiatry’s history and stigma continue to shape who gets to decide.
Dr. Nicole Washington sits down with mental health advocate Dr. Keris Myrick to unpack the intersection of reproductive justice and mental illness — and how stigma, outdated s
How to Find Hope When Bipolar Steals It Away
Life with bipolar disorder often feels like a constant battle, so being told to find hope can seem like a cruel joke. But what if hope isn’t naïve — it’s necessary? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington dive deep into the real, practical power of hope and how to find it even when it feels impossible.
From planning something to look forward to, to
Fish Oil and Bipolar: Hype or Helpful?
In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington unpack what the research actually shows, why supplement quality is inconsistent (and sometimes downright sketchy), and how side effects — even with “natural” products — are very real. In short, they dig into the science, hype, and hope surrounding omega-3 supplements.
Listener takeaways:
wh
Unpacking the Binge Eating Disorder and Bipolar Connection
What happens when binge eating disorder and bipolar disorder collide? Research shows they co-occur in as many as one in four cases — and yet, many people living with both conditions feel completely alone. In this episode, host Gabe Howard shares his personal journey of living with bipolar disorder and binge eating disorder, including how food was his form of self-medication.Board certified psychia
Hypochondria (aka Illness Anxiety Disorder) in Bipolar Disorder Examined
What happens when bipolar disorder collides with hypochondria? Is it even possible for someone to have both conditions? In this episode, Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a psychiatrist) tackle the complex overlap between bipolar disorder and what’s often called hypochondria but is now known as illness anxiety disorder.Together, they explore the confusion that comes w
Beyond Pills: Proven, Science-Based Approaches to Bipolar Management
What if managing bipolar disorder wasn’t just about medication? Too often, conversations around bipolar treatment stop at the pharmacy counter. But what about therapy that helps you process trauma? What about learning your triggers before a full-blown episode hits? What about diet, exercise, creativity, and community support? These are not extras — they’re essential.In this episode, hosts Gabe How
Firing Your Mental Health Provider: Ending Gracefully, Safely, and Professionally
Do you feel trapped in a therapy or psychiatry relationship that feels stagnant, unsettling, or just plain wrong? This episode pulls no punches as hosts Gabe Howard — who lives with bipolar disorder — and Dr. Nicole Washington — a board certified psychiatrist — tackle the uncomfortable question most people think about but rarely voice: “How, and when, is it time to part ways with your mental healt
Do You Feel Taken Advantage Of Due to Bipolar?
Do you feel people are manipulating or using you because of your bipolar disorder diagnosis? If that question hits a nerve, this podcast episode is for you. When a listener emailed us because they felt they were being exploited due to their diagnosis, hosts Gabe Howard (who lives with bipolar disorder) and Dr. Nicole Washington (a licensed psychiatrist) dove headfirst into a frank conversation abo
Why Can’t You See It? Understanding 'Lack of Insight' in Bipolar Disorder
You can be living in a storm and swear it’s a sunny day. That’s what it’s like when insight slips away. In this episode, Dr. Nicole (board certified psychiatrist) and Kit Wallis (lives with schizoaffective disorder) explore why people with serious mental illness, like bipolar disorder, often can’t see their own symptoms — even when the evidence is undeniable. Dr. Nicole unpacks the science behind
New Diagnosis or Managing for Years? Learn to Live Well with Bipolar (Part 2 of 2)
You’ve received a new diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Now it’s time to sharpen your survival toolkit. In part two of this essential series, Gabe Howard (Lived Experience) and Dr. Nicole Washington (Board Certified Psychiatrist) dive straight into the signals you can’t afford to miss: the subtle shifts in sleep, mood, and behavior that whisper “episode incoming.” Learn why tracking your patterns tod
New Bipolar Diagnosis? All the Basics Unlocked (Part 1 of 2)
Imagine hearing, “You have bipolar disorder,” and feeling the ground drop out from under you. That moment of shock and confusion is the very reason we made this episode. Join Gabe Howard (lived experience) and Dr. Nicole Washington (board certified psychiatrist) as they transform that initial overwhelm into a powerful first step.
In this episode, you’ll discover the essential truths no one tells
Breaking Stigma in Women’s Mental Health with Kit Wallis
In this female-centric episode, board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington welcomes mental health advocate Kit Wallis, who lives with schizoaffective disorder, for a fearless “girl power” takeover. Kit shares raw stories of being dismissed, sexualized, and romanticized simply for being a woman with a serious mental health diagnosis — and how one doctor’s simple question, “What is it like f
The Bipolar Hack I Ignored for Years: Our Host’s Personal Walking Story
What if a secret weapon in managing bipolar disorder isn’t a new medication or a breakthrough therapy — but a brisk 20-minute walk? In this refreshingly honest and hilariously relatable episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington take on the least talked about pillar of bipolar stability: lifestyle management, and more specifically, exercise.
During a recent b
Frozen Truths: Catatonia in Bipolar Disorder
Imagine being fully awake, yet your body refuses to respond — a terrifying state where time seems to warp as you stand paralyzed. In this riveting episode, we dive deep into the elusive world of catatonia as it intersects with bipolar disorder.
Drawing from special guest host Kit Wallis’s (SchizoKitzo’s) firsthand experiences, including moments of being physically “frozen” while fully aware, this
Never Surrender! Staying Committed to Bipolar Treatment
Have you ever felt the crushing weight of doubt when every day is a battle with your own mind? In this episode, Gabe (who lives with bipolar) and Dr. Nicole (a board certified psychiatrist) cut through the BS and get real about staying on track with bipolar treatment. They dive into moments when giving up seems like the easier option and Gabe recalls a painful wake-up call from a friend who wasn’t
Schizoaffective & Bipolar: What’s the Connection?
Why is schizoaffective disorder so often overlooked — even by mental health professionals — and how does it relate to bipolar disorder? In this episode, Dr. Nicole Washington sits down with guest host Kit Wallis (aka SchizoKitzo) to discuss Kit’s life managing schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type.
Kit shares her decade-long journey through multiple diagnoses, from cyclothymia to bipolar I, befo
OCD & Bipolar: Unraveling Potential Intersections
Ever wonder what happens when two complex mental health conditions collide? In this episode, host Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington, peel back the layers of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and bipolar disorder, challenging the clichés and misconceptions that have long overshadowed these conditions.
Using humor, candor, and exp
When Trauma and Bipolar Collide
Many people with bipolar disorder experience trauma — either from external events or even from the disorder itself. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the deep waters of managing trauma with bipolar disorder.
They cover the differences between trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), debunking
Struggles of Low Sex Drive (Hyposexuality) in Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar doesn’t just impact mood — it can take a toll on your sex drive, too. In this frank conversation, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, break down how both depression and mania affect libido, the frustration of losing sexual desire, and the pressures of maintaining intimacy in relationships.
They cover why some people care
ECT: Medical Torture or Effective Treatment? (Electroconvulsive Therapy)
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) often conjures extreme images — either as a medieval torture method or a miraculous cure. But what’s the reality? Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive deep into the facts, debunking myths and exploring the nuances of ECT as a treatment for bipolar disorder.
In this episode, they discuss the eff
Unpacking Bipolar Rage: What’s Real and What’s Not
Does "bipolar rage" exist, or is it a misunderstood concept? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, tackle bipolar rage and discuss why it’s not a clinical symptom of bipolar disorder.
They explore the differences between anger, agitation, and rage, offering insights for those with bipolar disorder and their loved o
ADHD and Bipolar: Untangling the Overlap
ADHD and bipolar disorder often share symptoms, but are they truly co-occurring conditions or just two sides of the same coin? Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington as they tackle one of the most perplexing topics in mental health. They dive into how these diagnoses overlap, how doctors differentiate between them, and why ADHD might sometimes be
When Friends Wish Mania Would Return
Have you ever heard someone say they miss the “old you” — the life of the party, the one who could stay out all night and keep everyone entertained? For people with bipolar disorder, those “good old days” were often fueled by mania, bringing hidden chaos, risk, and pain. In this candid episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist,
How to Talk with Your Psychiatrist: Bridging the Communication Gap
Does your psychiatrist really understand what you're going through? Navigating conversations with your psychiatrist and other professionals helping you manage your mental health can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be! In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle the communication disconnect between patients and mental health professionals. Learn why vague terms like "nervous b
Love or Mania? Understanding the Differences with Bipolar Disorder
Love can be exhilarating, but for people with bipolar disorder, it can sometimes blur the lines between infatuation and mania. In this candid episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the complexities of new romance through the lens of bipolar disorder.
How can you tell if it’s true love, fleeting infatuation, or a s
Doomscrolling and Bipolar: How to Break Free
Doomscrolling can be especially harmful for people with bipolar disorder, amplifying mood changes and fueling anxiety or depression. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the dark world of doomscrolling and why it’s particularly damaging for people living with bipolar disorder.
They explore why doomscroll
Is Hypomania Controllable? Myths, Realities, and Risks
Is hypomania something you can use to your advantage, or is that a dangerous game to try? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, take a deep dive into the nuances of hypomania, its diagnostic criteria, and the widespread belief that it can be harnessed for productivity.
They explore why some people may mistake eleva
Bipolar Relapse: Personal Journey of Warning Signs, Support, and Recovery
What happens when someone with bipolar disorder relapses after years of stability? In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Nicole Washington interviews Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, about his recent mood episode and relapse. Together, they uncover the subtle warning signs Gabe overlooked, the crucial role loved ones—and even strangers—played in recognizing the episode, and the surpris
Understanding Cyclothymia and Exploring ‘Bipolar Tendencies’
Confused about what medically constitutes “bipolar tendencies” or “bipolar adjacent symptoms”? Do you want to understand more about the diagnosis of cyclothymia? You're not alone! In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, tackle the murky waters of “not quite bipolar, but kind of.”
They cover what cyclothymia is and ho
Managing Cluttered, Racing, and Disordered Thoughts
Do cluttered, racing, or disordered thoughts disrupt your daily life? Do you understand the differences between them? In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, unravel what these terms mean, how they differ, and discuss why they’re not exclusive to bipolar disorder. Using relatable analogies and personal insights, they
Turning Stress into Strength: Bipolar Management Strategies
Stress-free living is a myth, but stress-proofing your life? That’s a game-changer. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, share practical strategies to build a "foundation" strong enough to handle the stress that comes with managing bipolar disorder.
Whether it’s navigating late-night anxiety or managing specific b
Thriving at Work with Bipolar: Handling Symptoms and Setting Boundaries
Balancing a career while managing bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms like anxiety, depression, or hypomania strike during work hours. What do you do when you’re at your desk and suddenly feel frozen or out of control?
In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, share actionable tips to help
Treatment-Resistant Bipolar: Myth, Misunderstanding, or Medical Fact?
Is treatment-resistant bipolar disorder a real diagnosis, just a concept, or entirely made up? It may surprise you, but depending on your perspective, an argument can be made for all three. Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, as they demystify what “treatment-resistant” bipolar disorder means.
This candid conversation unpack
When Bipolar Treatment Is Refused: What Can Loved Ones Do?
When someone with bipolar disorder refuses treatment, it can leave loved ones feeling helpless and overwhelmed. How can you support them without enabling their denial? In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington offer actionable advice for navigating this emotional minefield. Learn how to foster meaningful conversations, set healthy boundaries, and take care of your well-being while enc
Keto for Bipolar: Cure or Craze?
Can following a keto diet help people with bipolar disorder reduce or even eliminate medication? While keto is often promoted as a potential game-changer for mental health, there’s a crucial question: Can it really help manage bipolar symptoms?
In this episode, Dr. Nicole Washington shares insights from clinical experience, balancing keto’s possible benefits against the dangers of going off medica
Beyond Spa Days: Self-Care and the 8 Dimensions of Wellness
Self-care for bipolar disorder is more than relaxation — it's about nurturing every part of your life, from physical health to emotional resilience. This episode dives deep into the “8 Dimensions of Wellness,” providing useful, practical ways to meet your unique needs and stay balanced. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at self-care advice, this episode may just change your mind.
Listen in as our ho
Top 10 Most Common Bipolar Questions Answered
Bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming, and you're not alone if you don’t understand what it’s all about. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and board certified psychiatrist Dr. Nicole Washington tackle the top ten questions about living with and managing bipolar.
From explaining the difference between bipolar I and bipolar II to whether bipolar can be effectively manag
Dodging Bipolar Relapse in January: Beating Holiday Havoc
As the holiday season begins, we start feeling the pull to enjoy every treat, party, and late night that November and December has to offer. But for those managing bipolar disorder, the holiday frenzy can lead to more than just leftover fruitcake in January.
Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington as they dive into the chaotic holiday whirlpool and explain how
Love & Marriage: Tackling Relationship Challenges with Bipolar Disorder
Navigating marriage is hard enough — but when bipolar disorder is in the mix, things can get even more complicated. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the complexities of marriage when one partner lives with bipolar disorder.
Gabe shares candid stories from his two divorces and the challenges of untrea
Self-Sabotage and Bipolar: Breaking the Cycle
Dive into the intricate dance between self-sabotage and bipolar disorder in this eye-opening episode. Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar, and Dr. Nicole Washington as they explore the often unrecognized ways that bipolar symptoms can lead to unconscious self-sabotaging behaviors.
Discover how to identify patterns of self-sabotage and why understanding the "why" behind your actions is crucial
Seasonal Bipolar: Can Weather Really Cause Symptoms?
Can the changing seasons impact bipolar disorder, much like they do with seasonal depression? In this episode, Gabe Howard and Dr. Nicole Washington tackle the intriguing question of whether bipolar disorder can have seasonal patterns.
Drawing on the latest research, they explore how seasonal changes affect mood, not just in terms of depression but also mania and hypomania. Dr. Nicole sheds light
Overcoming Internalized Shame and Guilt in Bipolar Disorder
Shame, guilt, and self-stigma. Our host, Gabe Howard, may openly talk about living with bipolar disorder, but that doesn't mean he doesn’t feel shame and guilt. In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole Washington dive deep into the lingering guilt many feel after a bipolar diagnosis.
Why do feelings of self-stigma persist, even after years into recovery? From internalized discrimination to societal mi
Bipolar Mixed Episodes: Navigating the Unthinkable
Can mania and depression really coexist? In this episode, our hosts unravel the complexities of bipolar mixed episodes — where mania and depression collide in the same mind, often creating a personal hell for those experiencing it.
Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington dive into the complexities of mixed episodes, highlighting that they’re far more than just mood
Fear of Relapse? Navigating the Lingering Shadows of Bipolar Disorder
This episode delves into the often-overlooked aftermath of living with bipolar disorder, even after achieving stability. Gabe, who lives with bipolar, shares his personal experiences of lingering fears, the trauma of past depressive episodes, and the constant self-monitoring that comes with managing his illness.
Dr. Nicole explores the delicate balance between responsibility and self-compassion, a
Work-Life Balance Is a Scam: What It Really Means for Bipolar Disorder
Trying to achieve that perfect work-life balance? You’re not alone, and it might be doing more harm than good—especially if you’re managing bipolar disorder. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar, and Dr. Nicole Washington debunk the myth of work-life balance, revealing how this ideal can fuel feelings of inadequacy and guilt for those living with bipolar disorder.
Instead of chasin
Navigating Friendships and Support: Building a Balanced Bipolar Support System
Today we discuss how to navigate friendships, avoid echo chambers, and integrate professional advice into your bipolar support system. Learn why having a range of perspectives is essential for your mental health journey and how to effectively manage relationships without falling into codependency.
We explore the intricate balance of maintaining friendships while managing bipolar disorder. Gabe, wh
The Impact of Menstrual Cycles and Hormonal Fluctuations on Bipolar Disorder
Today we delve into the complex relationship between menstrual cycles, hormonal fluctuations, and bipolar disorder. Join Dr. Nicole Washington and Natasha Tracy, who lives with bipolar disorder, as they explore how periods and other “women’s health” issues can impact mood stability and what menstruating people with bipolar disorder should know about managing their symptoms.
Learn about the importa
Answering the Overlooked: Bipolar’s Brain Changes, Vertigo, TMS, and More (From Listener Questions)
Ever wonder if dizziness is from your medication or if there's really such a thing as medication-resistant bipolar disorder? In this episode, our hosts tackle questions submitted by listeners, diving into topics rarely discussed on other podcasts.
Questions include: Is the brain of someone with bipolar disorder physically different? What exactly is TMS and does it work for bipolar? Was lithium rea
How Is Bipolar Disorder Diagnosed?
Curious about how bipolar disorder is diagnosed? Join Gabe and Dr. Nicole as they break down the intricacies of the diagnostic process. From recognizing the subtle signs of mania and depression to understanding the importance of detailed questioning, this episode offers an in-depth look at what it takes to accurately diagnose bipolar disorder.
Whether you're noticing symptoms in yourself or suppor
Overcoming Negative Thoughts and Embracing Positivity with Bipolar Disorder
Our hosts discuss practical strategies for managing negativity with bipolar disorder in this episode. They explore the importance of setting realistic expectations and making necessary adjustments in daily routines. They also emphasize the value in understanding and differentiating between baseline emotions and those triggered by bipolar disorder.
Gabe, who lives with bipolar himself, shares insig
The Truth About Resilience with Bipolar Disorder
In this episode, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the misconception that resilience is an inherent trait for those with bipolar disorder, highlighting the hard work and external support necessary for true recovery. Gabe shares personal experiences of frustration with the superficial praise of resilience, stressing the importance of addressing the trauma and journey of living with a serious mental illne
Pinpointing Recovery: Defining ‘Regular’ Moods and Self-Directed Goals in Bipolar Disorder
SAMHSA defines recovery as a “process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.” But how do you define recovery for yourself?
Today, our hosts delve into the complexities of defining and understanding recovery in bipolar disorder. They discuss the constant struggle to distinguish between bipolar sympt
Bipolar Psychosis: Demons, Delusions, and Hallucinations
Join our hosts as they delve into the intricacies of psychosis, hallucinations, and delusions, highlighting the challenges faced by those who experience them and their impact on loved ones. Gabe shares his journey with bipolar psychosis, detailing the intense delusions involving demons that once dominated his life.
Through candid conversation and professional insights, our hosts explore the realit
Psychiatry's Controversies: Overprescription, Skepticism, and Finding the Middle Ground
Today, Gabe and Dr. Nicole discuss the anti-psychiatry movement, emphasizing the importance of balancing perspectives. They acknowledge the valid concerns of anti-psychiatry advocates but caution against the dangers of extreme views, which can undermine beneficial aspects of psychiatric treatment. They encourage reading both pro- and anti-psychiatry literature to make informed decisions while unde
Signs of Progress: How to Recognize Recovery With Bipolar Disorder
Today, we tackle the complex question, "How do you know if you're getting better with bipolar disorder?" Gabe shares his experiences and frustrations as a patient with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole provides insights from a board certified psychiatrist's viewpoint.
Together, they discuss the importance of setting realistic goals, the value of tracking progress through mood journals and standardi
Navigating the Zombie Effect: Emotional Blunting with Bipolar Disorder
We discuss the common complaint from people with bipolar disorder of feeling emotionally blunted or like a "zombie" due to their medication. Gabe expresses the people’s frustrations when their concerns seem dismissed in favor of highlighting symptom improvements. Dr. Nicole emphasizes the importance of providing specific examples and patience because medications take time to stabilize. They conclu
