Dodging Bipolar Relapse in January: Beating Holiday Havoc

Inside Bipolar

As the holiday season begins, we start feeling the pull to enjoy every treat, party, and late night that November and December has to offer. But for those managing bipolar disorder, the holiday frenzy can lead to more than just leftover fruitcake in January.

Join Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington as they dive into the chaotic holiday whirlpool and explain how its demands can quickly become a recipe for relapse. They discuss why indulging in a little holiday cheer might feel innocent, but can lead to unwelcome surprises like depression, disrupted routines, and, in more serious cases, a bipolar episode.

With humor, honesty, and practical advice, Gabe and Dr. Nicole help you navigate this festive season mindfully so that come January, you’ll feel recharged instead of regretful. If you want to enter the new year feeling strong, this is the episode for you.

“One of the things I think that trips up a lot of people is we tend to save our splurges for special occasions. But during the holidays, I mean, from Halloween to New Year's, it feels like every day is a special occasion because it's the holiday season. So, but really, I mean, you can't have 65 days of special occasions. I mean, you just can't. Or else your body will be angry at you.” ~Dr. Nicole Washington, Host

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To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the official episode page.

Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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