I'm a stay at home mom, or have been for the last year. I just got put back on meds (I tried to do without for a while, needless to say it didn't work) and am wondering if I should start college in the fall. I know that when I'm my usual roller coaster there is no way I'd be able to stick to it. I'd go through a depression and not make it to class or something silly. Will the meds help me to stay even enough that I might actually be able to do this?
Hi, Karri. I can assure you that if you are feeling even on your meds now that your meds will help you stay even in college. But there is a catch: College will involve a major schedule change plus additional stresses and pressure, and your meds can't do all the heavy lifting.
Thus, it is critical - vital - that you discipline yourself to stick to strict routines. The best way to get back on that roller coaster is staying up well past your bedtime to complete an assignment that you should have started a week earlier.
Missing out on sleep is the easiest way to induce mania. And excessive worry is a sure path to anxiety and depression.
Also, pay very careful attention to things like diet and exercise. And when you feel stressed build in break times for yourself.
Also, know your limitations. Don't be afraid to take a lighter course load if you feel overwhelmed.
So, yes, go for your dreams. People with bipolar do very well in life. Meds are part of the answer. But the meds will work a lot better if you are leading a disciplined life and looking after yourself. Go for it!
How are you doing now, that you are back on medication? Are you experiencing the highs and lows you feel would prevent you from going? How are you at coping with stress? Will the added stress be a challenge? Are there ways you can decrease the stress or prepare for it. Are you planning to attend full time or are you starting as a part time student?
Medication can help but each individuals situation is different and you will have to be the one to decide if you are up to it. There are many individuals with Bipolar Disorder who have attained undergraduate and graduate degrees. Some have gone on to get a doctorate degree.
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Thank you for the advice. My p-doc said today that he thinks we can get me there. I was so stressed when I was working, I had daily anxiety attacks, sometimes more than one. I don't want to go through that again!
I'm trying now to get everything in place so that when school starts I'll have the supports in place I need. My hubby suggested we join a gym so we can make sure to squeeze in workouts too. I'm a procrastinator, so I'm really going to have to work on it. I am trying now to get a good routine in place so that by the time I start college it will be habit.
Wish me luck!