(BEST OF) EPISODE 06 | GETTING HELP - doctors and diagnoses

In this episode of This Is Bipolar, host Shaley Hoogendoorn sits down with Cuban-American spoken-word poet and mental health advocate Dailyn Santana to share her powerful lived experience with bipolar I disorder. Dailyn opens up about the earliest signs she noticed in middle school, the challenges of navigating undiagnosed symptoms, and a significant manic episode that led to hospitalization during college. She reflects on how these experiences shaped her family life, her cultural identity, and her ongoing journey through stigma and misunderstanding. Through her story, Dailyn highlights the healing power of poetry, community, and compassion. Together, Shaley and Dailyn explore the importance of peer support, advocacy, and authentic storytelling in recovery, while also unpacking the complex intersection of creativity, culture, and mental health. This candid conversation offers both hope and honesty — showing how art can be a lifeline, a way to reclaim identity, and a tool to shift the conversation around bipolar disorder. What you’ll hear in this episode: Dailyn’s early signs and symptoms of bipolar I during adolescence The impact of manic episodes and hospitalization on her life and relationships How stigma and cultural expectations shaped her mental health journey The role of poetry and spoken word in expressing truth and finding community The power of peer support, advocacy, and compassion in recovery A hopeful look at how art can change the mental health conversation Be sure to listen at (00:49:23) hear the most beautiful and encouraging poem. It may or may not have brought Shaley to tears.Her words are raw, vulnerable, and powerful. this is bipolar... About Today’s Guest: Dailyn Santana is a Cuban-American poet, actress, motivational speaker, and truth-teller mental health advocate from Elizabeth, New Jersey. Through spoken word and storytelling, she shares her lived experience with bipolar I disorder, blending vulnerability with strength and art with activism. Her work has resonated on both intimate stages and national platforms, raising awareness, breaking stigma, and inviting others to find healing and connection through honesty and creativity. You can connect with Dailyn here: dailynsantana.com  linkedin: Dailyn Santana Instagram: Dailyn Santana TikTok:  Dailyn Santana   Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.  Much love, Shaley xo  More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.  Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."  Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.   #thisisbipolar #bipolar #bipolardisorder #bipolarawareness

We are sharing some of our most listened to episodes once a month! In this BEST OF episode, mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft discuss their vastly different experiences of seeking professional help and receiving their bipolar II diagnoses. They describe when, where, and how they first heard the life-changing news, "You have bipolar disorder." It is Julie and Shaley's greatest hope that in sharing they will offer insight and encouragement to anyone going through the process of being diagnosed. This is bipolar..... Connect with Shaley on the website or IG and share your diagnoses story! Sign up for the newsletter at thisisbipolar.com   Instagram - @this.is.bipolar   Episode features JULIE KRAFT @julie.kraft.author www.juliekraft.com #thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarvlog. #thisisbipolarpodcast

Join hosts Shaley Hoogendoorn and Dr. Andrea Vassilev as they delve into the complexities of traveling with Bipolar Disorder in this enlightening episode of 'this is bipolar'. Together, they explore how changing time zones and disrupted routines can impact mental health, offering practical tips to manage these challenges. They share personal stories and expert insights on maintaining balance and stability while traveling, ensuring that your adventure is both memorable and manageable. Discover strategies for regulating your body's internal clock, managing overstimulation, and finding downtime for self-care even amidst the excitement of travel. Shaley and Andrea underscore the importance of self-awareness, planning, and kindness towards oneself, creating a roadmap for travellers with Bipolar Disorder to feel empowered rather than overwhelmed. Tune in for an open, supportive conversation that empowers listeners to embrace travel with confidence and self-compassion. Resources Mentioned: Be sure to sign up for my newsletter at thisisbipolar.com to get a free "Bipolar Travel Toolkit" PDF to help you prepare ahead and manage bipolar disorder while traveling.  Jet Lag Rooster Chris Aiken Jet Lag Document   Chapter Markers: (00:04:15) Challenges of Travel (00:06:26) The Impact of Social Rhythms (00:09:27) Substance Use on Vacation (00:10:36) Personal Travel Stories (00:15:25) Comfort Items and Coping (00:20:17) Managing Physical Wellbeing (00:24:49) Navigating Support at Airports (00:40:40) Encouragement and Empowerment   Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar     Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.  Much love, Shaley xo  More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.  Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."  Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle. Meet our Guest Co-Host: Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.  

Throwing back to a heartfelt episode of "this is bipolar" with co-hosts Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft. In this episode, the duo dives deep into their personal experiences dealing with bipolar disorder and everyday anxiety. They open up about the struggles of coping with irrational fears and the constant overthinking that accompanies their bipolar journeys. Shaley and Julie candidly share their battles with anxiety in daily situations, from social interactions to medical appointments, and how these challenges impact their relationships. They discuss the importance of acknowledging their anxieties rather than dismissing them, and provide insights into how they strive to manage their worries. Through humour and vulnerability, Shaley and Julie aim to create a sense of community and understanding for those who face similar struggles. Join them as they navigate the layers of anxiety, offering support and showing that despite the obstacles, they are not alone on this journey. this is bipolar...   (00:07:02) Navigating Relationships and Anxiety (00:14:36) Anxiety and the Pressure of Perfection (00:30:16)Everyday Anxiety: Real Life Scenarios (00:44:12) The Awkward Moments We All Face (00:48:34) Understanding and Supporting Each Other   Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel thisisbipolar.com Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.  Much love, Shaley xo  More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.  Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."  Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.  

 Throwback to a BEST OF episode-Join mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft as they tackle the tricky topic of supporting a loved one who is dealing with a mental health struggle. ... It is Julie and Shaley's greatest hope that this episode offers insight and encouragement to those with mental health struggles, as well as everyone living & loving alongside. This is bipolar... Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar thisisbipolar.com Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.  Much love, Shaley xo  More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.  Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."  Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle.    

Join hosts Shaley Hoogendoorn and Dr. Andrea Vassilev in an enlightening discussion focusing on the often misunderstood concept of mixed features. With personal anecdotes and professional insights, they unpack what it means to experience mixed episodes and how these can present in daily life. This episode sheds light on diagnostic challenges, common misconceptions, and the importance of accurate treatment. Additionally, the episode touches on the risks associated with mixed features, including heightened impulsivity and agitation. Listen in as they explore how living through these experiences can feel like being on two roller coasters at once, and the vital need for advocacy and self-awareness in managing mood disorders. This episode is a testament to the power of shared knowledge and community healing. this is bipolar... (00:10:08) The Complexity of Diagnosis (00:12:28) Dr Andrea's upcomig workbook book on Self Stigma (00:16:43) Personal Experience with Mixed Features (00:21:35) Navigating Mixed Features (00:27:09) Agitation & Despair (00:30:52) Urgency of Treatment (0035:46) Encouragement & Resistance (00:39:32) Closing Thoughts & Community Call to Action Connect with us: IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar thisisbipolar.com   Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.  Much love, Shaley xo  More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.  Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."  Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle. Meet our Guest Co-Host: Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com. IG @this.is.bipolar Youtube: this is bipolar channel TT @this.is.bipolar thisisbipolar.com Thank you from the bottom of my heart for listening. If this episode or podcast means something to you, I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ⭐️ star review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most.  Much love, Shaley xo  More about your Host: Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, content creator and currently hosts the popular “this is bipolar” vlog and podcast. She lives with bipolar 2 disorder and shares her story and the stories of others to dismantle the stigma around mental illness.  Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about bipolar disorder. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness."  Shaley’s greatest hope is that creating safe spaces to connect will give hope and comfort those that struggle. Meet our Guest Co-Host: Dr. Andrea Vassilev holds a doctorate in psychology, is a therapist in California, and has lived with bipolar disorder for over 25 years. Andrea is the creator of the program Overcoming Self-Stigma in Bipolar Disorder and serves on the Board of Directors of the International Society for Bipolar Disorders. As a clinician and academic with lived experience, Andrea brings a special perspective to both her professional and advocacy work. Andrea hopes that by telling her own story of life with bipolar disorder through the lenses of clinical causes, treatments, and outcomes that she can provide education, hope, and comfort to others. You can connect with her on Instagram @best.life.bipolar or at www.andreavassilev.com.

In this episode, mental health advocates Shaley Hoogendoorn and Julie Kraft discuss hypomania. For them, hypomania has two sides- the bright but also the dark. In this follow-up to episode 11, they share what it feels like in their minds and bodies when the destructive side of hypomania rears its head. What are the problems & pitfalls? In what ways are their lives, and the lives of those around them, affected the most? Listen in as Shaley and Julie also share about how they spot warning signs and now manage the messy parts of hypomania. It is their greatest hope that this episode gives a real-life glimpse into the rocky side of the rollercoaster that is hypomania. This is bipolar... (00:03:42) The challenges of unmanaged hypomania (00:06:37) Before medication: Hypomania's effects (00:15:01)  The journey of self-awareness (00:19:53) Understanding anger & rage (00:23:02) Balancing creativity & family (00:32:44) The importance of boundaries (00:38:12) Navagating self expectation & growth   If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect.   Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there. We are all in this together. Love, Shaley *Note: Hypomania is a lesser form of mania and a symptom of Bipolar 2 Disorder. Neither Julie nor Shaley have had a full-blown manic episode and cannot speak to that experience. Mania and Hypomania have a shadow side and in no way do they want to glorify it. Please know that we take hypomania very seriously and are committed to their treatment plans, which for them includes medication.   #thisisbipolar #thisisbipolarvlog #thisisbipolarpodcast

Join Host Shaley Hoogendoorn as she interviews fellow bipolar warrior Brennan Wood about his experiences with bipolar 2 disorder. They delve into the transformative power of community and discuss the impact of peer support groups, both online and in-person. In this episode, Brennan, a bipolar advocate with a rapidly growing TikTok community, also shares his firsthand experiences within the psych ward and the troubles he has faced living with bipolar disorder and navigating friendships. He recounts his journey from his initial diagnosis in his late teens through challenges with psychosis and the stigmas he faced, to finding empowerment through fitness and social media advocacy. Discover how storytelling and sharing lived experiences can help dismantle mental health stigmas and foster a supportive community, ensuring that no one feels alone in their journey. this is bipolar... 00:09:55 The Struggle of Friendship 00:016:35 The Psych Ward Experience 00:27:08 Navigating Stigma in Mental Health 00:36:36 Words of Encouragement  If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect.   Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there. We are all in this together. Love, Shaley About Brennan: Brennan is a TikTok content creator from Ontario, Canada who shares personal experiences and insights about living with bipolar disorder. His content blends humor, vulnerability, and advocacy to raise awareness and foster community support around mental health. Brennan has amassed over 20k followers so far and is quickly building a supportive community for those who are struggling with mental health issues. He aims to help beat the stigma and to foster a safe space for those who are struggling. You can connect with Brennan on TikTok  or Instagram @brennanlaughs.    

In this brief episode, host Shaley shares an honest update on her current battle with a challenging mixed episode of Bipolar 2 Disorder. Shaley opens up about the emotional and physical toll it has taken, offering insights into the realities of living with bipolar disorder. Amidst overwhelming feelings and fluctuating symptoms, Shaley discusses the importance of self-care, reaching out for support, and the difficulty of balancing work and personal life during such episodes. She highlights her commitment to sharing experiences to reduce stigma and foster understanding. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the community on Instagram and participate in peer support initiatives, reinforcing the strength found in shared experiences. Stay connected for upcoming episodes featuring special guests and continue on this journey of understanding and empathy together. this is bipolar...   If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect.   Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there. We are all in this together. Love, Shaley  

This episode of the podcast was recorded last year on MY BIRTHDAY so I brought it back!!!! Its all about bipolar, birthdays & BIG feelings! When I asked on Instagram if anyone else gets bipolar symptoms triggered by birthdays the response was huge. I’m not alone when comes to living with symptoms and episodes brought on by this mood disorder. When I look at the comments you all left on the previous post I could see it was something that we need to talk about so I recorded a solo episode! I share stories about the good, bad and often disappointing birthdays I’ve had. I also spilled the beans about what it was like to be an extrovert, teacher and event planner that goes wild planning kids birthdays WITH HYPOMANIA. It was not always pretty behind-the-scenes. I didn't realize how much I suffered until I really started talking about my experiences through the years. This episodes tells all of my big emotions and moods I have experienced about getting older or celebrating. The episode also covers practices that I do to that prevent or work through triggers so bipolar doesn’t take over learner ruin my day. I can celebrate that I am much better at managing my big bipolar birthday feelings and I know what I need to enjoy the day. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion that challenges stigmas, promotes empathy, and celebrates the beauty of imperfection. this is bipolar...  Click to listen to the Highlights: (00:12:37) Surprises Gone Wrong (00:16:43) Learning to Let Go (00:20:09) Birthdays with Kids (00:29:02) The Pressure of Perfection (00:32:13) Strategies for Better Birthdays   If you are listening and have stories or tips or practices that help you cope, I’d love to hear. DM me on @this.is.bipolar on instagram or find me at thisisbipolar.com. I’d love to connect.   Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here.It is my greatest hope that sharing journey living with bipolar disorder will comfort, educate and inspire others. If this episode or podcast means something to you and you want to give me the best birthday present ever- I would be forever grateful if you would follow/subscribe the ‘this is bipolar’ podcast wherever you listen to your podcasts so you stay up to date. It would also mean the world to me if you gave a 5 ️ review- this helps the podcast reach those who need to hear it most. There is also an option on IG to become a subscriber to have access to exclusive 'going deeper' episodes of the podcast. Hope to see you there. We are all in this together. Love, Shaley   Shaley Hoogendoorn is a speaker, podcast host and mental illness advocate who aims to dismantle the stigma around mental health and create a safe community for those that struggle. She lives with bipolar 2 and currently hosts “This is Bipolar” vlog and podcast. Shaley is passionate about educating and empowering others about mental health disorders. She has contributed to publications for Sanctuary Ministries, Psych Central and BP Hope magazine. She hosted a series interviewing women living with mental illnesses at SheLoves Magazine in a series named "Sisters in Mental Illness." Shaley is also an elementary school teacher and an event planner. You can connect with Shaley on Instagram & TikTok @this.is.bipolar or find me at thisisbipolar.com