Welcome to my new blog!
I learned so much about coping with and managing my bipolar symptoms while pregnant with my teenage daughters. Katherine is nearly eighteen and Holly is fifteen.
In 1989 there was little information about bipolar disorder and pregnancy. My husband Fred and I thought it was best for me to go off my bipolar medication from preconception through postpartum. We made so many important decisions before I went off medication. Everyone’s situation is unique. It’s important to consult with your doctors and support team before making any medication changes. For many women, staying on medication or adapting their medication works best.
Managing my symptoms is an ongoing process. From my standpoint, the degree of my signs and symptoms varies depending on the stresses in my life. While off medication, my symptoms became worse. Journaling is still one of the most effective ways for me to manage my moods. It’s funny that when I’m feeling balanced, I don’t feel the need to journal.
I’ve been journaling since I was ten years old. I kept a daily diary from ages ten to twenty. It’s interesting to read them now because I captured my “goody-two-shoes” years, tumultuous teens prior to diagnosis, and the drastic change once diagnosed and treated.
