Summary

In this episode, Jonathan and Andrew have a free-flowing conversation about their experiences with bipolar disorder over the past few months. They discuss recent episodes, hospitalizations, medication management, and the importance of realistic expectations. They also talk about the support they receive from their workplaces and the benefits of boxing as an outlet for mental health. They end the conversation by discussing their goals for the future. In this conversation, Andrew and Jonathan discuss various aspects of personal growth, self-compassion, and balancing work and family life. They also touch on the importance of preserving family legacy and the value of men talking about mental health.

Takeaways

• It is important to have open and honest conversations with loved ones and healthcare professionals about episodes and medication management.
• Having realistic expectations during mood fluctuations can help in managing bipolar disorder.
• Workplaces can provide support and accommodations for individuals with bipolar disorder.
• Engaging in physical activities like boxing can be a beneficial outlet for managing mental health.
• Setting goals and continuously striving for personal growth is important in managing bipolar disorder.
• Never be satisfied and always strive for personal growth in different areas of life.
• Practice self-compassion and give yourself time to recover and heal.
• Find stability and growth in your work, and define success on your own terms.
• Preserve family legacy by recording stories and memories.
• Make time for both work and family, and prioritize communication and connection.
• Encourage men to have open conversations about mental health.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:21 Recent Experiences and Episodes
03:00 Hospitalization and Support
08:11 Managing Medication and Recovery
13:33 The Importance of Realistic Expectations
19:02 Workplace Support and Accommodations
22:02 Boxing as an Outlet for Mental Health
29:23 Setting Goals for the Future
32:33 Never Satisfied
33:39 Self-Compassion and Personal Growth
34:14 Stability and Growth at Work
35:01 Defining Success on Your Own Terms
36:20 Preserving Family Legacy
38:39 Balancing Work and Family
41:44 Men Talking About Mental Health

Show notes:

Guest: Andrew @bipolar_realtalk (Instagram)

Connect with Jonathan Szarko: JonathanSzarko.com

@JonathanSzarko (Instagram)

Music: DJ Stryer @stryermusic (Instagram)