“Smiling depression” and “high-functioning depression” aren’t official diagnoses, but if you’ve ever forced a smile while feeling broken inside, you know they’re real. I’ve lived it—going through life as if everything is fine while struggling just to get through the day. If you hide your pain, function because you have to, and feel exhausted from pretending, you’re not alone. In this article, I share my experience with smiling depression, why we do it, and why it’s okay to stop hiding. You don’t have to carry this alone.
Your thoughts and feelings aren’t always telling the truth—but they feel like they are. This cognitive trap can fuel anxiety, depression, and even destructive behaviors. So how do you reality-test your thoughts and emotions? Here, I break down why thoughts and feelings aren’t facts, how they trick you, and practical ways to challenge them. Learn how to stop believing everything your mind tells you!
New Year’s is often seen as a time for fresh starts and celebration, but for many, it can be overwhelming, especially for those living with bipolar disorder. The cultural pressure to “start over” combined with feelings of loneliness or failure can make January 1 a particularly difficult day, even increasing the risk of suicide. In this article, I uncover the hidden struggles of New Year’s Day, explore why it can feel so challenging, and offer practical steps to find hope and healing in January and beyond.
Looking for a meaningful last-minute gift? Discover the top-rated mental health charities that make a real impact. Whether you’re honoring someone special or simply want to give back, these organizations are doing incredible work to support mental health and serious mental illness. Learn how your donation can make a difference today.
Did you know guilt and shame, though often confused, have drastically different effects on your mental health? While guilt can guide you toward growth, toxic shame tears you down, harming your self-worth and relationships. Discover the psychological differences between these emotions, why shame is so toxic, and practical steps to overcome it in this revealing article.
Struggling to find the perfect gift for someone with bipolar disorder? These 10 thoughtful and supportive ideas focus on self-care, relaxation, and creativity, helping you show how much you care. Plus, find out how to win a pair of inspiring PJs (enter before November 30)!
Anosognosia, a clinical lack of insight, affects up to 50% of people with bipolar disorder, leaving them unable to recognize their illness. This symptom can devastate not only those with bipolar disorder but also their loved ones. Discover why this happens, how it impacts treatment, and what you can do to help someone who doesn’t believe they’re unwell.
In this thought-provoking post, Kimberly Wilkerson, founder of Token Clothing Company™, delves into the surprising science behind how language—both positive and negative—impacts our mindset and mental health. From words we say and think to the ones we wear, discover how intentional language can transform your well-being. Plus, find out how you could win a cozy pair of Pajamas With Purpose™ to elevate your mindset every day!
Looking for a more affordable alternative to ketamine for treatment-resistant depression? Discover how dextromethorphan/bupropion offers new hope. This article breaks down the differences between ketamine and dextromethorphan, their effectiveness, and how these antidepressants work. If you’ve struggled with depression treatments or face challenges accessing expensive therapies like ketamine, this guide might offer the answers you’ve been searching for. Dive in to learn more about this innovative approach.
Ever wondered what it feels like to recover from depression, especially after years of battling bipolar disorder? In this deeply personal post, I share the small but significant shifts in my emotions, the challenges of adjusting to life without constant suffering, and the fears that come with recovery. If you’re curious about how mental health recovery unfolds or want to understand the emotional ups and downs of depression, this article provides a raw, real-life glimpse into the journey. Dive in and explore my experience with recovery.
Partnering with Otsuka Pharmaceuticals for World Mental Health Day has sparked controversy, but I believe collaboration with pharmaceutical companies can benefit patient advocacy and innovation. While I understand the skepticism around “big pharma,” my work with Otsuka is about amplifying patient voices and ensuring medication development includes our needs. I remain committed to transparency and maintaining unbiased content, despite the sponsorship. Let’s explore the real impact of these partnerships and why they’re necessary.
Feeling like you have no mental health left? In this personal and practical guide, I share what it’s like to experience severe mental health struggles and offer actionable steps to cope when everything feels impossible. From managing daily tasks to finding hope in the darkest moments, learn how to survive and navigate through mental health collapse. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone, and there are ways to manage even when it feels like you have no mental health left.
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