If you've been following Lizze's blog, you know that she's going through a very difficult time. She's living with bipolar type 2 and is on a mission to share her story, in order to help others gain insight into this very challenging human condition.
People with bipolar type 2 have depression as their default state of being. When the pendulum swings to the right and they enter a manic phase, they tend to be more productive, creative and efficient in their daily lives. Mania is very mild.
When the pendulum swings to the left, they hit a massive, massive depression.
Lizze has entered into a major depressive episode over the last few days and she's really struggling with life.
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As she shared in one of her latest entries, everything that can be done is being done. We both went to see her psychiatrist and came up with a plan of attack. There were very specific medication changes that took place and she discusses how she feels about the changes.
These episodes are temporary in nature but have no scheduled checkout time, meaning they could last for a few days or a few weeks. Life is extremely difficult for her when these significant emotional shifts take place.
We feel really good about the recent med changes as this medication has worked really well for Gavin. They both react similarly to medications and that gives us a hint as to how she might react.
Gaining a better understanding of what she's going through, has helped me to gain a great deal into perspective.
Does bipolar make things challenging for both her and I? Absolutely!
Having said that, while it's hard for me, I can't imagine what this is like for her.
As far as the kids are concerned, they see that Mommy’s really tired and needs rest. I'm sure it has an impact but Lizze tends to hide things like this pretty well.
Mental illness impacts the entire family and I applaud Lizze for being willing to share her story with the world.
Be sure to visit www.themamaspace.com, follow her story, offer encouragement and be inspired.
