Being "Normal"

In addition to being BP I, I also have SAD. It's been a long winter of depression & isolation. It seems like every year at this time the depression lifts...a welcome relief. After such a long bout with depression I'm feeling good again, but it seems like I'm always on the lookout for hypomania or mania. I have to remind myself that being happy & having more energy is a good thing; it's "normal," whatever that is. I don't know if that makes any sense, but I have to make sure I don't let the BP define me...I have to let go & let myself enjoy this good, stable time. With all the ups & downs of BP it's sometimes hard for me to relax & go with the flow. I'm grateful for the way I feel today.

I'm glad you are feeling good emgreen!

I have to remind myself that being happy & having more energy is a good thing; it's "normal," whatever that is

I think this is a great insight. No need to pathologize/see as illness simply feeling happy and having a good energy level. I think it can be hard sometimes to distinguish between what is part of the illness and what is just 'normal', as you put it, but it's a great step forward to make that distinction! I'm glad you appreciate it and are enjoying it!

Great to hear, em.

Happy for you and I hope this good state lasts!

Glad your feeling good

Good, Emgreen.

Do you use light therapy for S.A.D.? That might help make the relatively grey days of winter better for you.

Hope you stay well.

Yep...I use a light box religiously in winter, but I live in an especially cold & cloudy part of the country. It takes a whole lot of light to fight depression. Thanks for the suggestion, though.