Coming out of a hypomanic episode...need some advice

Hey guys,

I'm just coming out of possibly my worst hypomanic episode ever. Did some impulsive, self-destructive $#%^, as is par the course. Now dealing with the fallout. I'm currently looking for a new home as I lost my partner during this last episode and I've had to take a lot of time off work. I'm not taking any medication or seeing a Psych. I was diagnosed a long-time ago but thought I could manage it on my own...sure a lot of you have been there. Currently being referred, but these things take time.

Before this episode started I had applied for a course, as I'm looking to switch career. Unfortunately, due to one reason or another (non-illness related), my participation on this course was uncertain until yesterday. The course starts Monday. It is a very intensive course, full-time, a lot of outside work, over the duration of a month.

My question is this...would it be advisable extra stress right now? I don't want to risk triggering another episode.

Hi Daljit87,

I'm sorry you're going through so much right now in the wake of your hypomania. I've certainly been there, and dealing with the fallout of my highs and guilt over my behaviour has been really difficult. It's very positive that you've accepted you need help though, as that in itself is definitely not easy. I hope your referral doesn't take too long and you get effective treatment.

As for taking on a stressful course, I can only speak from experience, and say that stress has to be the number one factor that destabilises my mood. It particularly tends to send me high, and, looking back, my manic episodes have all been triggered by stressful situations, such as exam periods combined with my volatile family life, or working in a stressful job abroad and being socially isolated at the same time.

Bearing that in mind, I'd say to tread carefully with your decision of doing the intensive course, especially as you say you're just coming out of the episode and presumably not fully stable yet. Is there the option of deferring the course? Hopefully you deal with stress much better than I do, but perhaps right now is not the best time for you to be taking on so much.

Good luck with whatever you decide. Take care.

I agree that now isn't the time to try and start taking on any thing as stressful as a new course. You may be setting your self up for failure or another manic episode. Be kind and patient with your self. The time may come when you feel confident in applying for the course again sometime soon in the future. In the meantime go easy on yourself you've been through a lot and it takes some time to recover. good luck1

I think you are in a pretty vulnerable position.
Recent hypomania,
Lost partner,
New home,
No medication,
No psychiatrist...
These all contribute to lack of stability.

Taking on a course at this time, particularly one that you know will be stressful, is a questionable choice.
Sorry about that. There may be fallout... Lose your downpayment on the course, or lose the whole tuition fee because you are withdrawing so late. That would be unfortunate.

How often is the course offered. Could you sign up again in 6 months, or same time next year?
All is not lost.

Take care,