Living with bipolar disorder can feel like a never-ending rollercoaster, filled with manic highs and debilitating lows. Michelle Reittinger’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and empowerment. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1998, Michelle spent over a decade struggling with traditional treatments that left her feeling worse. This blog post dives into her journey and insights from her new book, The Upside of Bipolar: 7 Steps to Heal Your Disorder.
The Beginning of the Struggle
Michelle's journey began just before she graduated from college. Initially, she was told that bipolar disorder was a chemical imbalance that would require lifelong management with medications. Following this guidance, Michelle went through a significant number of psychiatric appointments and medications—at one point, she was on seven different drugs. Despite this, her condition continued to deteriorate.
In 2008, after a particularly severe episode that resulted in multiple hospitalizations and a change in her diagnosis from bipolar II to bipolar I, Michelle reached a breaking point. The despair she felt led her to believe that her children would be better off without her. During a moment of clarity, watching her kids play, she realized her life and struggles had value, especially for their sake.
The Turning Point
Determined to survive for her children, Michelle committed herself to finding a better way to manage her mental health. After years of traditional treatments, she discovered Truehope and its micronutrient formula, EMPower Plus. Initially skeptical, she brought this information to her doctor, who, having exhausted all traditional options, agreed to let her try it.
Transitioning from medication to micronutrients wasn’t easy. Michelle had to navigate the complexities of withdrawal and the fear of the unknown. Yet, as her brain began to heal, she experienced clarity and a sense of awakening she hadn’t felt in over a decade. This transformation was not just physical; it was deeply emotional and psychological.
Understanding the Healing Process
One of the most significant aspects of Michelle’s recovery was learning to trust her mind again. The stability she experienced after starting EMPower Plus initially caused anxiety, as she was used to the unpredictability of her moods. To combat this, she and her husband developed a system where he could provide feedback on her emotional state without fear of upsetting her.
This proactive approach to mental health was crucial. Michelle emphasizes the importance of having a support system, including professionals who understand the nuances of mental health recovery. Truehope’s customer support became integral to her healing journey, providing guidance and reassurance.
The Mood Cycle Survival Guide
In her book, Michelle introduces the concept of a "Mood Cycle Survival Guide." This guide serves as a practical tool for individuals struggling with mood disorders. It encourages self-awareness and proactive management of symptoms. Here are the critical components of the guide:
Identify Your Team: Recognize who can support you during difficult times and establish healthy boundaries around that support.
Early Warning System: Track symptoms and triggers to become more self-aware and prepared for mood changes.
Power Priorities: Determine which tasks are essential during low periods to prevent overwhelm.
Reboot Your System: Develop strategies to restore emotional balance when feeling off.
Transforming Perspectives on Mental Health
Michelle’s experience challenges the conventional narrative surrounding mental health. She argues that labelling conditions like bipolar disorder as lifelong "disorders" robs individuals of hope and agency. Instead, she advocates for understanding mental health as a complex interplay of nutrition, environment, and emotional well-being.
Through her research, Michelle discovered that many individuals could address their mental health issues through nutritional support rather than relying solely on pharmaceuticals. She highlights the importance of micronutrients in brain health and their role in stabilizing mood and cognitive function.
Resources for Healing
For those looking to explore unconventional healing methods, Michelle recommends several resources:
The Anatomy of an Epidemic by Robert Whitaker: This book questions the efficacy of psychiatric medications and explores alternative approaches to mental health.
A Straight Talking Introduction to Psychiatric Drugs by Joanna Moncrieff: A detailed examination of how psychiatric drugs work and their impact on mental health.
The Better Brain by Bonnie Kaplan and Julia Rucklidge: This book discusses the role of nutrition in brain health and how micronutrients can address mental health issues.
Final Thoughts
Michelle Reittinger’s journey illustrates that recovery from bipolar disorder is possible through understanding, support, and nutritional intervention. Her story is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with similar challenges. By sharing her experiences and insights, Michelle empowers others to take control of their mental health and explore paths to healing that extend beyond conventional treatments.
For more information on Michelle and her work, visit her website at The Upside of Bipolar. Her book, The Upside of Bipolar, offers more profound insights into her journey and practical steps for healing.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. There is hope, and healing is possible!
Simon Brazier. Dip HN, NNCP
simon@truehope.com
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