Okay, I haven’t done very well in terms of my sugar addiction. I still eat candy every day, but at least I’ve cut down on the amount. I don’t think I’m going to be able to do this cold turkey, and have no idea how I did it last time. BUT, I’m not going to lecture myself about how I’m not trying hard enough. I’m not going to beat myself up, either.
On the other hand, I have good news: I showered yesterday and today for the first time in 2-1/2 weeks, and I’m so happy! My husband didn’t have to wash my hair, either, like he did during the “no shower” interims. I didn’t even have to push myself.
Getting up by 6:45 AM instead of 8:00 AM like I did before my recent hypomanic episode, helps. During the depressive episode, I didn’t have the energy or will to shower. The lethargy was like a heavy blanket covering me. I always felt behind on my morning routine, so in my head, it was too late in the day to shower. Besides, I had other things to do, like read blogs and write a post! Depressed or not, I’m determined to write daily.
Also, for the past few nights in a row, I’ve slept through the night. My sleep hygiene still needs improvement, but I hope this continues, despite using the light box for 1 hour and 15 minutes daily. I took my psychiatrist’s advice and increased the amount of time I use it by 15 minutes each week. Though I’ve used light therapy for years, I was never really sure if it worked for me, but now I know it does. Between my “happy light” and the increased dose of Prozac, things are turning around.
We’ve had a ton of snow in Chicago the past several days, and although it’s been mostly gray, it’s lighter out for a longer period of time. I think this is helping, too.
I’m still going to make my decision after this weekend as to whether or not I’ll undergo ECT, but signs point to no!
Has it been light out for a little longer where you live? Have you noticed any changes in your mood?
Yay for the shower!!!! It’s definitely nice to see the days getting longer 🙂
Thanks, and yes, indeed it is!
I’m glad you are starting to feel better. Summer’s coming so hopefully it will keep improving. It doesnt make a difference to me, but the sunshine and lifht definitely affects my husband.
Thank you! I’m sorry the light doesn’t improve your mood, but I’m glad that it helps your husband.
I guess I shouldn’t say it doesn’t improve. I always feel better, happier when the sun is shining. I dont feel depression every day, like I use to. I have my days, but I have a lot of good days. It takes so much energy to feel down. From what Ive been reading on the blogs about bipolar, it is very unpredictable. You must be in a constant state of wondering. Let’s hope the sunshine and new med dose helps you.
Thanks. 🙂
It sounds like you are doing better and better–good for you. The longer days definitely make a difference for me in terms of feeling happier and healthier.
Thanks, Donnalee, and thanks for sharing. 🌻
Im’ so glad you’re feeling better, Barb! <3 Btw, I e-mailed you my questions! I appreciate you responding to my post!
Thanks, Casey! 🌻 And thanks for sending the questions. I’ll work on them tomorrow.
Yay! I’m excited to for them! Don’t forget a headshot!
Thanks for the reminder!
I have a sugar addiction too. Still don’t know how to change that, but like you, I refuse to beat myself up over it. Happy for the shower! Good job. 💞
Thank you! 🌻