In honor of World Mental Health Day, we asked PatientsLikeMe member Laura (thisdiva99) to take over our Instagram feed for the day. Laura is a professional opera singer, Massachusetts native, a member of the PatientslikeMe Team of Advisors, and is living with bipolar disorder. She gave us a glimpse into a day in her life, Check out the images and captions below to see what she shared.
Hello my Instagram compatriots! Laura here. Some people start the day with hearty oatmeals, or eggs fortified with kale. I start my day with a champion #bipolar breakfast of vitamin supplements and mood stabilizers… then I can eat my own breakfast 30 minutes after. For me, supplements are super important to incorporate with my meds. Talk to your doc about it to see if they could work for you!
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With my trusty steed Corolla, I conquer the day’s doctor’s appointments. On a good day, I can keep my ride in the driveway; on other days I travel to multiple towns/cities to see psychiatrists, therapists, endocrinologists, and the like. I also incorporate a yoga class or visit to the gym as I can. For me, treating the body as a whole is the key to moving toward a stable feeling.
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Meds require rehydration, therapy requires new worksheets to be completed, my funny bone requires Dwight Schrute, and my inner-warrior requires Big Papi by my side!
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Books act as a balm for my weary, ever-battling soul. On depressive days, I cling to romance novels, especially @LisaKleypas! On warrior days, I move between science texts and adventure series (LOVE the Fever series by @karenmariemoningofficial). There’s always a new cookbook in the pile, as I try to find new ways of eating that may not make my brain and body hurt so much.
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The subject of my final post is all about my rock. My husband is my rock, my love, and my protector. He has seen me at the best and worst points of my life. He’s taken me to the hospital when I was suicidal. He’s watched me perform with world-famous orchestras. He’s quietly sat in the corner of a James Taylor rehearsal until I was finished singing, because I couldn’t drive and he was my ride. (Hooray for ECT!) Ultimately, he is there regardless of how my illness manifests. We are a team of sass and strength, and I am so lucky to be a part of it. I hope you’ve enjoyed this little glimpse into a day in my life. Please go to www.coffeeandlithium.wordpress.com for more! Be well!
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