Bipolar Questions Version 5

Officially, but not yet diagnosed? Probably, 17. Major depressive episode #1.

Do you like old music from the 50s/60s, like Frank Sinatra/Michael Buble/Harry Connick Jr."

Not my first choice but it’s ok.

Do you like having a roommate or prefer to live alone?

I'm married, and I much prefer being married than alone. I love my husband and love his presence. As for before marriage, I guess I liked having a roommate, but also each having sufficient alone time. Actually, I think I like having some alone time even while married. My husband does, too.

Q: When it comes to responsibilities, which ones don't you mind (or even like)?

Always loved making money and hated paying all the bills. Do enjoy cleaning a lot.


What place or places have you not yet visited that you would like to see? I traveled for my job a lot, so, got to see a fair bit, but I have never made it to Africa, for some reason. Would really like to go there. As for cities, I have been all over Germany many times, but never seen Berlin. Weird. Just never happened. People say Portland is a bit similar in some ways. No idea. But would like to go there. Have read so many books set there over the years, since thrillers and spy stuff are my preference.

I've always wanted to visit Nova Scotia. I live fairly close but still in the states and until recently never had a passport card so never got to go. I'd like to see the whales too.

what decade is your favorite music-wise?

Late 60s, definitely, for me.

Best guitar player of all time?

Of my time and taste...Eric Clapton, maybe. I’d rather pick a 12 string flamenco guitarist but don’t know any....

Are you less manic as you get older?

No, but I'm still in my twenties so who knows if it will get less as I get older.

Favorite place?

the woods

favourite book?

Madness by Marya Hornbacher

What do you do to de-stress?

Breathe and pray.

Least favorite actress?

Me. Sometimes I play a role instead of just letting my most genuine and authentic self flow forward. I'm trying to do less of that.

What is the last thing you baked?

Marinated chicken. I don’t bake sweets because I will eat something sweet for breakfast, lunch and dinner until it’s gone.

Do you watch tv for news or read online?

Both, though I've tried to take a little bit of a break from news, lately. I still see some news headlines on my cell phone, despite. It's hard not to since they pop up.

Q: Is there anything that you used to be able to do, but really can't anymore? Or how about something you used to not be able to do, but now can?

I cannot travel anymore, due to financial constraints. I have done a huge amount of that, so, it is not a huge deal, but I would like to be able to take my daughter to Hawaii and NYC and DC and London and a few places. Just not sure how I am going to make that happen right now. Maybe something will turn a corner.

Have you personally been discriminated against on the basis of your bipolar disorder?

Do you question yourself a lot?

Constantly

Do you have a pet or pets? If so, what kind?

Yes, I have three cats.

What time do you usually wake up?

7am on average

What kind of exercise would you do if you did?

I use to love swimming.

What is your Fav. movie?

What about Bob

What characteristics did (does?) your favourite therapist have?

Most importantly, I have to feel comfortable with them. I also like to feel they like me, to some degree, and either I like or at least respect and trust them. It's also important that my therapist and I "work together". I shy away from therapists that are too coddling or boss-like (meaning they feel I'm subordinate in the relationship). I like equality. With that in mind, it is also crucial that I don't become the more dominant/controlling figure in the relationship. I have had to quit therapists because of this, too. I've also quit therapists that seemed intimidated/scared by my manic symptoms or who reacted with excessive anger, in some cases. Countertransference and transferance issues have existed between me and several therapists in the past, which is very common! Sometimes that is actually helpful/useful. Other times just the opposite. They come in various forms. One therapist even adulated me so much that I couldn't feel comfortable with him anymore.

My current therapist is great. She really offers exactly the proper balance of what I need. I have great respect for her. A couple other therapists were also very good, but the initial relationships had some challenging issues/shaky starts. But that's good for me, too, sometimes. I tend to have great respect for people that give me frank feedback (even negative). Believe me!

Q: Do you more often compromise in decision-making between spouse/partner/sibling/friend/etc?

Do you more often compromise in decision-making between spouse/partner/sibling/friend/etc? Yes, I hate confrontation. I fought to much growing up. I'd rather just give then even discuss.

what is your favorite memory?

Our wedding day and honeymoon.

What is your favourite beverage?

Anything vodka based lol.... favourite tipple is vodka and Scotland's national soft drink Irn Bru or vodka, lemonade and lime. Cocktails are good too drumstick or um bongo are good though. Alcohol in general lol.

Question: If you could tell someone in your treatment team anything what would it be?