[Lik3]

Is journaling you thoughts a good idea or would it make things worse? I have these thoughts that won't go away yet I have been journaling them. I wonder if they would feed the obsessions.

[JourneyUpward]

Hi Lik3,

Everyone is different so you should examine what I am going to say against how you feel and think.

I journal a lot, especially when I am struggling with another mood shift such as a mixed episode which makes me irritable or depression. If the depth of the depression is making me think bad things but nothing that I would actually do to hurt me or anyone else, then I write in my journal and post here. I have received some good advice here.

The journal helps me to get all the hurt and ugly stuff out so I can let go of it or so it doesn't hurt as much. Posting here let's me blow off some steam and hopefully get an answer. Sometimes it helps just to have someone answer, "I know what you are going through--hold on, it will eventually pass."

Examine how you feel after journaling or posting. Do you feel better or at least a bit relieved? Or, do you feel more agitated? If at times you feel more agitated, then perhaps you need to find another outlet to cope with that feeling or mood. Running or some form of intense exercise is a great choice. It burns up the negative energy and adrenaline fairly quickly. You may still feel a little ornery but it should be easier to cope with.

One time, I was so agitated that I got on my treadmill and ran 4 miles! It worked! I hadn't run in 27 years! I didn't know I could do it but I guess the agitation and the adrenaline needed to be burned off. I shocked myself. When I'm in a normal mood (rare) I could never run that far at that pace.

Just remember, you are the only one who can judge how you feel and what helps you cope best.

Hope this helps,
JourneyUpward