In this raw and vulnerable episode, I open up about a month that completely unraveled me. I tried to do everything: take on new projects, say yes to every opportunity, and push myself past every limit. At first, it felt amazing. I was motivated, full of energy, and convinced I could handle it all. But beneath that unstoppable drive was something I didn’t recognize at the time: hypomania, a symptom of my bipolar II disorder.
What started as a burst of inspiration turned into exhaustion, overwhelm, and emotional emptiness. I’ll walk you through what that experience looked like for me: the highs, the crash, and the tough lessons I learned about balance, boundaries, and mental health.
If you’ve ever struggled with the pressure to “do it all,” felt the rush of a hypomanic phase, or hit a wall after overcommitting, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone. Together, we’ll talk about learning to slow down, listen to your mind and body, and find peace in doing less.
If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might need to hear it. And if you’re living with bipolar disorder or navigating burnout, I’d love to hear your story! Send me a DM me on Instagram: @distressedtojoyful_baileysway
Also found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible, and YouTube.
Resources
- Looking for a deeper understanding of hypomania? Be sure to tune into Season 3, Episode 13: This is What a Bipolar Hypomanic Episode Feels Like
- Need a little help to further understand the depression side of bipolar disorder? Tune into S3. Episode 11: This is What Depression Feels Like to hear about my personal experiences with depression as well as the research behind it.
- I briefly touched on this, but the 60 Days Stronger Challenge has reallllllllly helped me rebuild some healthy habits that I need in my life in order to stay balanced. Check it out! I promise it’s worth it.
Until next time friends… Take it easy, stay grateful and be joyful!
Meet your Host:
Bailey Reber Thakore
At the age of 16, Bailey was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. For years, she struggled with not only managing her mental illness, but also with accepting it while the outside world around her did not. She started this podcast in order to help encourage others to seek any professional help they may need, especially in times of darkness. She hopes that being vulnerable on hard topics via Distressed to Joyful; Bailey’s Way will be a “beacon of light” for listeners who are currently struggling with similar situations. Additionally, she hopes to bring about new perspectives to those not directly affected by mental illness in order to help them understand the world with a kinder heart.
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