Hi,<\/p>\n
I read the most amazing quote the other day: \u201cWhen we least expect it, life sets us a challenge
\nto test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending
\nthat nothing has happened or in saying that we are not yet ready. The challenge will not wait.
\nLife does not look back. A week is more than enough time for us to decide whether or not to
\naccept our destiny.\u201d
\n\u2015 Paulo Coelho<\/p>\n
Isn\u2019t that cool? I like the part about testing our courage and willingness to change. I think they are both great concepts. But especially willingness to change. Because change is inevitable. But we don\u2019t always think that we do have a part in it. Like that we can do it willingly.<\/p>\n
But it is inevitable that you will face challenges when you have a loved one with bipolar disorder. That\u2019s just the way it goes.<\/p>\n
But that\u2019s the attitude you have to take, by the way \u2013 as you approach anything new \u2013 that it is a challenge. If you think of it in terms of \u201cproblem\u201d instead of \u201cchallenge,\u201d you will be doing both you and your loved one a disservice, as that is a negative way to approach it.<\/p>\n
Challenges are opportunities to provide solutions and growth. Think of the last challenge that you had. Ask yourself if you handled it in the best way that you could. If the answer is no, then it might be as simple as just changing your perspective.<\/p>\n
One thing constantly preached to people with bipolar disorder is to keep a positive attitude. This will help them regulate their moods and become stable. Well, that advice is just as sound for a supporter of a loved one with bipolar disorder.<\/p>\n
When anyone reviews their current circumstances in a negative way, they can become overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed out \u2013 maybe even depressed. This is true whether you have bipolar disorder or not.<\/p>\n
One of the ways that I deal with it is to take only one thing at a time. Otherwise, yes, it can be too overwhelming for me, and that overwhelming feeling can lead to discouragement, and discouragement to a possible depression.<\/p>\n
You (as well as your loved one) can adopt a positive attitude just as easily and, hopefully,
\navoid stress for you and episodes for them.<\/p>\n
One day at a time \u2013 that\u2019s the key. Another key is to think positively. Some people who are spiritual find comfort in the expression, \u201cNothing happens in God\u2019s world by mistake.\u201d<\/p>\n
Knowing that God is still in charge is a comfort to them, and they don\u2019t feel alone in their attempts to get rid of their obstacles.<\/p>\n
Still, an optimistic attitude can go far in keeping you positive and giving you the right attitude
\nto solve your problems (i.e., overcome your challenges).<\/p>\n
First of all, you must believe that the challenge can be overcome. Then you need to believe that you CAN overcome it. Sometimes it\u2019s just a matter of letting it \u201cstew\u201d for a while until a solution presents itself.<\/p>\n
Well, I have to go!<\/p>\n
Your Friend,<\/p>\n
Dave<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Hi,<\/p>\n
I read the most amazing quote the other day: \u201cWhen we least expect it, life sets us a challenge
\nto test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending
\nthat nothing has happened or in saying that we are not yet ready. The challenge will not wait.
\nLife does not look back. A week is more than enough time for us to decide whether or not to
\naccept our destiny.\u201d
\n\u2015 Paulo Coelho<\/p>\n
Isn\u2019t that cool?<\/p>\n