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  #1  
Old Apr 13, 2014, 11:48 PM
Rayne Selene Rayne Selene is offline
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Posts: 263
Hi,
I'm a twenty year old college sophomore. I'm taking eighteen credit hours (twelve credit hours is considered full-time), and I'm having a really hard time staying focused and doing well. I'll go through a phase where I'll work like crazy and then I'll suddenly get tired and can't do anything. I don't handle stress very well at all. When I think about how many things I need to do this week I can't handle it and it's like I close my eyes and pretend it doesn't exist. Then I just get more stressed out. When I finally sit down to do something I can focus for maybe a minute or two (like a page of reading) before I lose it again. I can't stick to anything.
I'm having a really hard time, and when I get really depressed I think about dropping out of school all together. This semester I'm getting to the point that I can't even get myself out of bed, and then I hate myself for how lazy I am.
I just got diagnosed with bipolar disorder a few weeks ago. I don't know how to handle all of this. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Please don't suggest therapy: I know it's good advice, I just can't afford it. And yes, there is a councilor at my school. But it costs money.
Thanks for this!
outlaw sammy

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  #2  
Old Apr 14, 2014, 12:34 AM
r010159 r010159 is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Rayne Selene View Post
Hi,
I'm a twenty year old college sophomore. I'm taking eighteen credit hours (twelve credit hours is considered full-time), and I'm having a really hard time staying focused and doing well. I'll go through a phase where I'll work like crazy and then I'll suddenly get tired and can't do anything. I don't handle stress very well at all. When I think about how many things I need to do this week I can't handle it and it's like I close my eyes and pretend it doesn't exist. Then I just get more stressed out. When I finally sit down to do something I can focus for maybe a minute or two (like a page of reading) before I lose it again. I can't stick to anything.
I'm having a really hard time, and when I get really depressed I think about dropping out of school all together. This semester I'm getting to the point that I can't even get myself out of bed, and then I hate myself for how lazy I am.
I just got diagnosed with bipolar disorder a few weeks ago. I don't know how to handle all of this. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Please don't suggest therapy: I know it's good advice, I just can't afford it. And yes, there is a councilor at my school. But it costs money.
IMO the first priority is to reduce your course load. Also close your eyes and forget about everything more often. Then do the next item of importance on your list. Maybe establishing a fixed day-to-day routine will help. Perhaps you need to take it one day at a time, and if necessary even one step at a time through the day. I think you should exercise and eat properly and get your sleep.

Just some thoughts off the top of my head.
__________________
Bipolar II and GAD

Venlafaxine, Lamotragine, Buspirone, Risperidone
Thanks for this!
outlaw sammy
  #3  
Old Apr 14, 2014, 09:32 AM
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wildflowerchild25 wildflowerchild25 is offline
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I reduced my course load when I was taking on too much and made it up over the summer. I know it's probably too late now but consider it for the fall. Maybe take some classes over the summer. Even if you take just one summer session class.

The other hing I did when I was overwhelmed in college was get a paper planner. Then I wrote when all assignments were due. Every week I would check what was he and plan out what I would do each day of the week. When I broke down the assignments I felt less overwhelmed. I still do that now that I have a job. There's a lot of paperwork to do as a teacher! Lesson plans, IEPs, materials for plans, grading...it gets away from me if idint have a plan.
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f—-ing hurts. But it’s sort of all we have.
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  #4  
Old Apr 14, 2014, 05:53 PM
outlaw sammy outlaw sammy is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Rayne Selene View Post
Hi,
I'm a twenty year old college sophomore. I'm taking eighteen credit hours (twelve credit hours is considered full-time), and I'm having a really hard time staying focused and doing well. I'll go through a phase where I'll work like crazy and then I'll suddenly get tired and can't do anything. I don't handle stress very well at all. When I think about how many things I need to do this week I can't handle it and it's like I close my eyes and pretend it doesn't exist. Then I just get more stressed out. When I finally sit down to do something I can focus for maybe a minute or two (like a page of reading) before I lose it again. I can't stick to anything.
I'm having a really hard time, and when I get really depressed I think about dropping out of school all together. This semester I'm getting to the point that I can't even get myself out of bed, and then I hate myself for how lazy I am.
I just got diagnosed with bipolar disorder a few weeks ago. I don't know how to handle all of this. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Please don't suggest therapy: I know it's good advice, I just can't afford it. And yes, there is a councilor at my school. But it costs money.
This is where I love to tell my how I got through graduate school story.

I used to be one of these closet bipolars who kept my condition a secret from the world (WRONG CHOICE!). While working on my thesis research, I fell into a deep depression that lasted three months. When I returned to the university, my graduate advisor (also the chairman of the chemistry department) told me that I was in deep trouble and on academic probation pending a decision by my thesis committee as to whether to let me complete my program or terminate me. I could see he was furious over my unannounced absence, and it was then that I confessed that I have BP1. The look on his faced suddenly changed from rage to empathy. From that instant on the department did everything they could to support my successful completion of my masters degree. I LOVE THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO!

The point is this: your school should be able to work with you to help you get through successfully. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (1992) they must make accommodations to help you achieve and succeed.

You're not experiencing anything that the rest of us BP's don't experience. May be that doesn't help you much to know this, but you could speak with your academic counselor for starters. BUT LET THEM KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DEALING WITH - WHAT THEY DON'T KNOW CAN HURT YOU.

Last edited by outlaw sammy; Apr 14, 2014 at 05:55 PM. Reason: CLARITY EDIT
Thanks for this!
BipolaRNurse, Rayne Selene
  #5  
Old Apr 14, 2014, 06:24 PM
Rayne Selene Rayne Selene is offline
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Member Since: Mar 2014
Location: United States
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Quote:
Originally Posted by outlaw sammy View Post
This is where I love to tell my how I got through graduate school story.

I used to be one of these closet bipolars who kept my condition a secret from the world (WRONG CHOICE!). While working on my thesis research, I fell into a deep depression that lasted three months. When I returned to the university, my graduate advisor (also the chairman of the chemistry department) told me that I was in deep trouble and on academic probation pending a decision by my thesis committee as to whether to let me complete my program or terminate me. I could see he was furious over my unannounced absence, and it was then that I confessed that I have BP1. The look on his faced suddenly changed from rage to empathy. From that instant on the department did everything they could to support my successful completion of my masters degree. I LOVE THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO!

The point is this: your school should be able to work with you to help you get through successfully. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (1992) they must make accommodations to help you achieve and succeed.

You're not experiencing anything that the rest of us BP's don't experience. May be that doesn't help you much to know this, but you could speak with your academic counselor for starters. BUT LET THEM KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DEALING WITH - WHAT THEY DON'T KNOW CAN HURT YOU.
How do I begin to get help from the school? My school is split up into so many different departments, I wouldn't know where to start. The people who run my scholarship? The department I'm in? The overall administration? So confusing
  #6  
Old Apr 14, 2014, 07:19 PM
Anonymous37909
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Rayne Selene View Post
How do I begin to get help from the school? My school is split up into so many different departments, I wouldn't know where to start. The people who run my scholarship? The department I'm in? The overall administration? So confusing
I've been in your shoes. Consider talking to the disability services office at your university. They'll be able to help you approach your department and dean.
Thanks for this!
outlaw sammy
  #7  
Old Apr 14, 2014, 07:28 PM
crazycatlady_83 crazycatlady_83 is offline
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Posts: 86
I am almost 31 and starting back at a university this semester. I was diagnosed in 2007, but I didn't attempt school until about 4 years ago. And then, it was while I was working full time, so only one or two classes to get my associate's and get ready for the university for my bachelor's. I was like you, taking a heavy load each semester. It was hard for me to realize that I can't handle that much anymore, and I had to accept the fact that it was going to take me a little longer to get done. I am currently taking three classes, 10 units. I'm in California, and that still gets me all of my Pell grant, and qualify for the max on student loans if you need that.
I would let your major advisor know, the one who you work with the most. Just go in and explain everything that is going on. I would think he/she would be able to guide you to the right person. I know at my school, you can take the test at another time than the rest of the class and have more time to take it.
  #8  
Old Apr 14, 2014, 07:36 PM
crazycatlady_83 crazycatlady_83 is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Rayne Selene View Post
Please don't suggest therapy: I know it's good advice, I just can't afford it. And yes, there is a councilor at my school. But it costs money.
It really helps to have someone you can talk to about everything that's going on. Do you have a close friend or family member who you can talk to?
  #9  
Old Apr 14, 2014, 07:51 PM
Anonymous37909
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Originally Posted by Rayne Selene View Post
I just got diagnosed with bipolar disorder a few weeks ago. I don't know how to handle all of this. Does anyone have any suggestions?
I'm a 21-y-old junior and was diagnosed with BP in Fall 2013. The diagnosis happened right when I returned to college after a semester's break (my sleep problems had escalated to the point of requiring hospitalization). Therapy never helped me, although some people find it useful, and I don't do it anymore.

Here are some suggestions to add to what the others have said:
  1. If you can afford it, consider taking a semester or two off from college after this semester ends. This time can be invaluable in helping you regroup, practise self-care strategies, and find a working treatment plan. Bipolar disorder is serious. It's better to stabilize yourself before you enter the heat of a semester than to burn out and have to drop out of college.
  2. Are you on medication? This has been critical to my stabilization.
  3. Healthy eating is almost as important as medication for me, if not more so. I take 2000-3000mg of high-quality omega-3 fatty acids daily (this can take up to two months to have an effect), and have cut down on simple sugars, refined grains, alcohol, greasy food, and desserts.
  4. What is your sleep like? Good quality sleep is so important for BP. If you're having broken or poor quality sleep, your psychiatrist might offer you a sleep aide. I was weaned off benzodiazepines recently, and now use a melatonin-based over the counter aide that works wonderfully. 8 hours of sleep every night. Yay.
  5. See what kind of services and accommodations your school's Disability Services office is able to provide. For example, I get distraction-free testing rooms and extended time on exams. Since my medication causes drowsiness, I am also able to get morning exams rescheduled to afternoons and evenings. You'll likely need a note from a psychiatrist, alongside results from a neuropsychological evaluation, to have access to some of these services.
  6. Do you suffer from anxiety? I use lavender essential oil to scent my bedding, wardrobes, etc. in my dorm room. This helps me relax and think clearly, as well as sleep better (because lavender is an anxiolytic). Chamomile tea is also great. I drink some whenever I feel anxious during the day, or to help me wind down at nighttime.

These are just some suggestions. Feel free to PM me anytime, and I'd be happy to talk about things in more detail, recommend books, etc. I totally empathize with you, because I've gone through the same situation myself. Good luck!

- Allie
  #10  
Old Apr 15, 2014, 06:10 PM
outlaw sammy outlaw sammy is offline
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I'M IMPRESSED FOLKS! I love the way ya'll rally around each other to share your knowledge and insights. I've read so very good suggestions from each of the commentators here.

When I was diagnosed in 2001, I was told that there are only 1.6% of the general population who have this disorder, and only a tiny fraction of that who make themselves visible. By each of us being openly there for the others we grow in strength, effectiveness, and most of all, successful achievement!
  #11  
Old Apr 15, 2014, 07:27 PM
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Lobster Hands Lobster Hands is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by outlaw sammy View Post
I'M IMPRESSED FOLKS! I love the way ya'll rally around each other to share your knowledge and insights. I've read so very good suggestions from each of the commentators here.

When I was diagnosed in 2001, I was told that there are only 1.6% of the general population who have this disorder, and only a tiny fraction of that who make themselves visible. By each of us being openly there for the others we grow in strength, effectiveness, and most of all, successful achievement!
This would have made a whole lot more sense if I hadn't misread it as, "I'M DEPRESSED FOLKS"...

Sent from my Nexus S 4G using Tapatalk
Thanks for this!
outlaw sammy
  #12  
Old Apr 15, 2014, 09:32 PM
pepperlynne pepperlynne is offline
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Member Since: Sep 2013
Posts: 105
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rayne Selene View Post
Hi,
I'm a twenty year old college sophomore. I'm taking eighteen credit hours (twelve credit hours is considered full-time), and I'm having a really hard time staying focused and doing well. I'll go through a phase where I'll work like crazy and then I'll suddenly get tired and can't do anything. I don't handle stress very well at all. When I think about how many things I need to do this week I can't handle it and it's like I close my eyes and pretend it doesn't exist. Then I just get more stressed out. When I finally sit down to do something I can focus for maybe a minute or two (like a page of reading) before I lose it again. I can't stick to anything.
I'm having a really hard time, and when I get really depressed I think about dropping out of school all together. This semester I'm gett
ing to the point that I can't even get myself out of bed, and then I hate myself for how lazy I am.
I just got diagnosed with bipolar disorder a few weeks ago. I don't know how to handle all of this. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Please don't suggest therapy: I know it's good advice, I just can't afford it. And yes, there is a councilor at my school. But it costs money.
I go through the same thing myself. It is difficult, there's no sugar coating it. But the end reward is what makes it worth it. Sometimes I feel the same as you when I get in these slumps, but just take a breathe, and try to stay positive. Even if you didn't finish everything perfectly, just do your best to stay on top of things. Having a planner is really helpful, and a few numbers of different classmates to text when you have questions, or need help.
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  #13  
Old Apr 15, 2014, 10:45 PM
r010159 r010159 is offline
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Quote:
Originally Posted by outlaw sammy View Post
I'M IMPRESSED FOLKS! I love the way ya'll rally around each other to share your knowledge and insights. I've read so very good suggestions from each of the commentators here.

When I was diagnosed in 2001, I was told that there are only 1.6% of the general population who have this disorder, and only a tiny fraction of that who make themselves visible. By each of us being openly there for the others we grow in strength, effectiveness, and most of all, successful achievement!
The emotional support this group provides impresses me allot. Actually, the support I see here and have seen elsewhere, like when I was in trouble, actually boggles my mind. This is an oasis in the unforgiving parched desert of life.
__________________
Bipolar II and GAD

Venlafaxine, Lamotragine, Buspirone, Risperidone
Thanks for this!
outlaw sammy
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