Is This Normal For Bipolar? Do Cycle Lengths Change?

Hi, I have bipolar 2 and have had for 18 odd years I'd say, diagnosed for 14 months. I am on lithium which has eliminated the highs(which takes a bit of getting used to when you think that's just you happy not a high) and reduced the severity of the Lows dramatically. I have tried loads and loads of other meds to fully stabalise the moods and after experiencing no joy with them and various side effects I decided to try other techniques which don't involve chucking more drugs in my system.

Meditation on a daily basis helps massively but well worth seeing someone who can help you do it properly or get a good book

Finally the reason I posted and wanted to share, I was taking lorazapam and diazepam to control the anxiety and moods and couldn't continue with or as it was only a temporary fix whilst we explored quetiapine. As this had to stop and I had to look elsewhere and try and help myself.

My wife had started jogging and said I should try it.

I got my shorts and trainers on, loaded the couch to 5k on my iPhone and borrowed her arm strap. Bought a running album on iTunes and started doing it 3 times a week before work. I never thought getting up at 6.15 in the cold/wet/frost would be an option for me due to low mood, can't be bothered etc but

I can't get enough of it now. The app starts off with running and walking, running then walking etc then builds you up.

I having been running 5 weeks and can run 6k and I honestly say, this has been better than any other medicine (lithium disclosed) they have tried to give me.

I really hope this helps some of you as it has me 👍

Hi, I too have Cyclothymia and the mood swings are so upsetting for oothers. I wish I had a magic cure but as with many others, I am due a medication review next week. I like to bike and gym but even this is out because I have sciatica and waiting have appointment next week also. Had to wait quite a while for both! I don't hear voices I just get really paranoid. I just avoid people full stop😒 Stephen Fey is Cyclothymic. He has a video on you tube about his condition. It's called 'An uppy downy mood swingy kind of guy' !!