Hi All,
So sorry I've been away since May when I originally opened this blog, but unfortunately I had a relapse which I am still struggling to rise out of. It has been a very difficult four and a half months for me, but due to some alternative treatment options I have been made aware of, I am once again feeling hopeful and again beginning to see the colors of my rainbow.
The first option I would like to share with you was suggested to me by my boyfriend's mother after she read an article on the relationship between chiropractic treatments and mental wellness. The theory behind this is explained by the presence and absence of brain chemicals that make us feel good. When the body is properly aligned, chemicals known as neurotransmitters are released in a specific sequence, like falling dominoes. These neurotransmitters act as messengers to send certain optimal amounts of serotonin and dopamine to the brain. Serotonin and dopamine are chemicals which when released promote a sense of happiness, pleasurable feelings and positive well-being. If however, the spinal chord is not in order, the misalignment's can cause pressure and tension on surrounding tissue, interrupting this feel-good sequence. You can learn more about this process @ http://www.life%20chiropractic%20center/
I am also looking into acupuncture in conjunction with the chiropractic treatments. The notion behind this, aside from the general rule of thumb, "TRY EVERYTHING", is that acupuncture is known to restore imbalances found in the body. Based on a holistic approach, acupuncture consists of fine needles inserted along various points in the body, with the purpose of stimulating the body's flow of energy and functionality, known as Qi. Though acupuncture has been traditionally taught as a preventive form of health care, it has also been proven effective in the treatment of pain and chronic conditions. To learn more about this you can simply go to google and search "acupuncture & depression."
Even more interesting is that a research study done back in 2002 showed the positive effects of acupuncture and bipolar disorder in which the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) awarded Southwestern's Bipolar Disorder Clinic and Research Program a grant to further study the effects of acupuncture on bipolar disorder.
NIMH Awards Grant to Study Acupuncture for Bipolar Disorder:
For further information on the study, visit http://www.utsouthwestern.edu/ or contact UT-Southwestern's Bipolar Disorder Clinic and Research Program at (214) 648-7474.
A third option I am investigating involves hormones. It always struck me odd that during my pregnancy 16 years ago, I had not one symptom of either depression or bipolar illness. My days were mental trauma and incident free as well as free of any sadness. I was in my best mental state of my entire life and I had a wonderful and positive sense of well-being for 9 months. With in weeks after I gave birth my symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder began to sky rocket. I do know that during pregnancy a woman's hormones change, increase I believe. Now in my mid-forties, I was struck with abrupt and early onset menopause when my hormones are changing yet again and I am having a very difficult time. This certainly suggests to me that hormones are playing a huge role in my bipolar and depression affliction. With this in mind, I am looking into the possibility of natural hormone replacement therapy, specifically, "Biodentical."
I am however very cautious about this idea and will be fine tooth examining it before taking any steps towards implementation as there is a lot of controversial research out on this subject. In addition, I am even more skeptical about this because my mother is a breast cancer survivor which can be quite risky for me. If anyone has any knowledge or feedback on this particular option I would greatly appreciate it. So far, all of the advantages and positive things I have learned about it is from the "Biodentical" web site itself which could very well be marketing information. I have not met with a hormone specialist yet, but my OB-GYN has very blatantly referred me against this option claiming the hormones are not natural, they are synthetic just like all other replacement hormones for women and it is not safe. If you would like to read more about this just google "biodentical hormones" or go to: http://www.womentowomen.com/
Finally, my father came across a very interesting article about one woman's triumph against severe depression through running. He alerted me to this immediately and instead of quoting the article piece by piece, I would just like to share the following link with you so that you can read this woman's story on your own. It is most compelling and elicits a lot of hope!!!
When Drugs and Therapy Don't Cure Depression, Running Will
Well, that's all for now. Sorry I was away for so long. Still more to come on good reads of the past on Bipolar Disorder and mental health insurance issues.
I hope this has been helpful and all stay hopeful!!!
Continue to be Graced with the Colors of Life, please don't loose site of your rainbows and continue to be well,
~Michelle~ from
Michellewritesaboutbipolar
