Hello Readers!

I would like to introduce to you a new column that we will be sharing each week. It is called The Bipolar Diary and will be place where we can share our stories of Bipolar Disorder, ways to handle this disorder and different posts that will educate you on what Bipolar Disorder is.

For the next few weeks, we will be sharing posts that were originally posted over at Melanie’s Blog. Enjoy!

My moods have been shifting with mighty force the past seven weeks of this manic episode. I can never know how I will be feeling, or when/how those feelings will change. I’m attempting to take back my life with rubber bands.

After weeks of trying different mood-tracking apps on my phone, I found that nothing could get me to actually input the information when I was feeling noticeably different. Then, I found these rubber bands in an old junk drawer as I was cleaning things out one day, and had an epiphany.

I’d already been wearing a regular rubber band the few days prior with the words, “I’M BIPOLAR” to help me get a grip on my fresh diagnosis. I was getting some great results with that, so I decided I wanted to use the colorful rubber bands to find a way to track my emotions.

Green – Good To Go

When this band is placed the furthest up my arm, that means I’m feeling good and approachable. I’m ready to take on whatever and can handle anything life throws at me, for the most part. Feel free to talk with me about whatever’s on your mind.

Yellow – Caution

This band furthest up my arm means I’m feeling strained. I’m stressed about some underlying nonsense, but it’s not so bad that I can’t have normal conversations. Tread lightly when discussing topics like money, budgeting, school, or other highly stressful life challenges.

Red – Look Out

This band means to keep away at all costs. I’m mad or stressed or overwhelmed and I need some time to decompress. Offer hugs, Snickers, Diet Pepsi, and/or other highly desirable treats. Be sure to arrange all gifts in a neutral location.

And that’s all there is to it!

My nine-year-old, Gracie, has taken to wearing these bands herself, but she added a blue one for when she’s feeling sad. They are really helping her express her emotions better which has surprised and impressed me.

Most mornings start green, shift to yellow, and end on red or yellow, if I’m lucky. I’ve been so happy with how these little bands have helped me take some control over my life the past several days.

What do you think?

Would you use these bands?

Melanie McKinnon is a wife, mother of 3 plus 1 in heaven, and a barre fitness instructor. She loves writing, Diet Pepsi, hugging her kids and dating her husband. On her blog, Melanie Meditates, you will find subscription box reviews, her experience with anxiety, depression and loss, stories about her life as a mother, and some tips for maintaining sanity. She hopes to encourage and inspire anyone fighting a daily battle.