Video: The 12 (Bipolar) Days of Christmas

Okay - Therese,

Yes, Yes & Yes -

You've made it through to "Hollywood". You get the yellow ticket!

Watch out, Carrie Underwood.

That was great. I'm going to start making my

"I love Therese" posters for the audience now!

I agree with Larry, Therese. You have a beautiful face and you look very classy.I think the original is too cutesy, I like your version better. :)

Very cute -- and you are properly dressed as a vocal major at her senior recital. Your production values are getting better each week.

Dammit Therese ! You gotta quit this stuff ... you're making it very difficult for me not to fall in Love with you ... and I'm happily married too! Lucky bastard, your husband (and don't let him forget it either !)

LUV 2 U / LUV 2 ALL
Wisdum

Thank you for making life real! I laughed so hard b/c I too suffer from depression over the years...and through meditation, kickboxing, omega fish oil capsules, thearpy, and long walks in the woods....I'm starting to feel almost normal. Bless you for putting this altogether. Your performance was graced by God! God bless you

Loved it!!!! I like when I see the word crap. It makes me laugh!!

Consider, on the 13th day, returning one of your husband's gifts for singing lessons. I guess you warned us in your very first sentence.
But I loved your intro, very very funny. Thanks for a better day today.

You're mean, Ratty. (Ratty by name, ratty by nature.)

I believe in Therese's faith, the word would be "calumny."

This is hilarious! And I love your formal concert attire. So refreshing and healing to be able to laugh about it all. Happy Holidays!

I need to show this to my husband I have been driving the poor man insane he needs a laugh.

Crack me the heck up! You are HILARIOUS! Really, I agree with all the above comments. This is one time that I actually looked at my illness and thought, "you know what? I can be proud of it." That sounds weird. I don't necessarily mean "proud" per se, just I don't have to be so ashamed of it. Cuz, you know, it's a TOTALLY unacceptable disease.(tongue in cheek here since no one here knows my jaded sense of humor) But you made it absolutely hilarious. Actually, I just realized (or remembered?) what I was trying to say (my short-term memory is crap!)
Listening to you made me feel that I don't have to be ashamed or afraid to tell anyone that I was in the hospital--God forbid, in the Psych Ward! Lucky you--you get to say "John Hopkins" Psych Ward. I mean, now that sounds really important and in fact luxurious and spa-like. Thanks Therese! Keep up the awesome work on your videos and articles. You really are a gift. I just told my other Cognitive Behavioral Therapy group buddies about your site and can't wait til they check you out! I'm sure they'll find you just as amusing, refreshing, and really, really funny! Valerie

I spent a week in St. Mary's psych ward, in Clifton,NJ. I had a lot of fun there (I guess fun also is a thing of perception) It didn't take most of the inmates too long, to come to me and ask "We know why we are here, but why are you here?" ... and my response to them was " I came to deliver a message to you from the Holy Spirit, 'I Love you, sayeth the Lord' ... Which is what got me put in there, going around telling everybody that same message! It's a funny thing, all my Life they taught me to "Worship God, Love God, pray to God, take all your troubles to God, let God be your best friend, talk with God !" ... But the moment that God talks back to you, you're crazy and they will lock you up! (go figure!) It really pissed my wife off, that I was having a good time there. I said "You should try this place, no cares, no worries, they feed you, have great conversations with you, don't judge you...What a great place to come and relax, it's like being on vacation!" ... Oh yeah! it was my wife and pastor, that had me commited (I did have to agree to go in though for observation) First time in my Life, that I felt what it was like to be a minister. That was the only year in fourteen years, that I did not produce and direct our passion play (I guess they felt I was not stable enough to put on a show about abuse, torture and crucifixion !)

LUV 2 ALL
Wisdum

Re -Larry Parker | November 30, 2007 11:58 PM

My mother was born in the old St. Mary's Hospital.

** How about this, I was born in Belview Hosp.(where the nuts come from!)

And my ex-girlfriend (the one who reminds me of Jenny Curran from Forrest Gump) used to live in Clifton.

** Ahhh ! Forest Gump, one of my all time heros! Anybody like him is all right with me!

We live in a small world, my friend.

** A lot smaller than we like to think! "We are many parts, we are ALL One body"

LUV 2 U / LUV 2 ALL
Wisdum

You are absolutely precious Therese,,,,, and happy holidays to you and yours my dear,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,you've made my day,,,,,,,,,,Michael!

Enjoyed the video but your writing was the most inspirational and funny. You have a gift. Write a book. I, too, was suicidal at one time. I was VERY close to the edge. My children were young enough to need me and that along with my faith kept me from falling completely into that dark hole. I had to quit work because I knew that either I would have a major nervous breakdown and/or heartattack and would not survive either. You have to want to survive or come back and I didn't. I, too, thought about how wonderful heaven would be--no more cheating husband, work stress, physical and emotional pain and children to drive you nuts. I had every stress factor in the book. Thanks to the Lord for giving me the needed strength to pull through. Zoloft is a miracle drug and lets me get through days without crying and screaming. The frustrating part is that I know I can't work anymore. I realize my limitations. I'm 56 years old and have no income. My youngest daughter (age 28) lets me live with her. Have been turned down for disability because they say I can still be a secretary with all the stress I used to handle. I know I can't and don't ever want to get as close to suicide as before--might not make it the next time. It's a sad thing about our country that I can't go to a doctor and get needed medicine and help for all my problems and pain. However, if I were in prison, I could just get all the help I needed. You think maybe I should try to rob a bank? Federal prison would probably be better!! Ha, ha. It's also wrong that we let child molesters, rapists, murderers, etc. live and take care of them but we kill innocent dogs and cats. It all seems wrong to me. As a Christian, I rely on Jesus to get me through each day. My church is Trinity Worship Center and the pastor is Bro. Jimmy Hagadorn. It is a penecostal church and you feel the love of the church and the spirit when you enter. Bro. Jimmy is on the list for a kidney transplant so I decided to offer one of mine. I have o neg blood and sure enough the blood matched on 3 out of 6 antigens--they said it was like we were brother and sister (we are "in Christ"). However, I still need to go to Birmingham for more tests and x-rays. I may have been born with only one kidney or my kidneys might not be functioning as needed. I don't know since I've never had them tested. But, I need to lose weight before they will even do the testing. I even gave up sweet tea!! Didn't think that would ever happen but I just quit drinking it. Have lost a few pounds but have lots more to lose. Everyone out there, please pray for God's will in all of this and in my life. Didn't mean to write a novel; but, it is good to "talk" to others. May God Bless all of you and joy and happiness in Christ.

Linda C. Cannon

I have bipolar disorder and found this offensive. I know it was probably meant to be light hearted fun, but characterizing the bipolar aspect of ourselves as "broken" sets us up for feeling defective somehow. I embrace and celebrate who I am! I wouldn't be the person I am today without it. I have received so many blessings on the Mind, Body amd Spirit levels from being bipolar. My disorder is well controlled, thanks to an excellent psychiatrist and me taking responsibility for managing it. Although I say, do whatever works for you,the 12 bipolar days of Christmas just didn't work for me.

That was way too cute! My son is bi-polar and I know that there are times I've felt like that with him. It's great that you can be funny and still be sensitive about it.

Thanks for this ... I am not Bi-Polar , I am being treated for ADHD . My brother is . He is depressed at the moment ..and I am sure this season has something to do with it . He is doing so well ... has a good job that he does not like of course . I am encouraging him to give it up and do something else before the stress causes relapsing problems . Too much caretaking on my part I am sure but I am so proud but just trying to help.
Christmas is hard for us always ... . One year I was in a mental hospital right before Thanksgiving . The occupational therapist had everyone write something about what the holidays meant to us and she read them outloud . Mine was entitled "Merry Christmas and Other Disasters !" It was about a rather trying Christmas when our Father was drunk . Our Mother walked to the dinner table and dropped his plate of food in front of him and said"Here is your Christmas Dinner!" He was of course outraged . Since our Father's death I do understand better , he committed suicide in 1988. He shot himself .A physchiatrist I went to told me that he was Bi-Polar . It does sort of fit .Suicide rate in males who are Bi-Polar is high.
I try to look at the 12 step way of dealing with life as an Adult Child of an Alcoholic. I just try to survive the next 24 hours with divine help and start over again each day.

Hey, way to go. You are obviously a card & a half, oh wait, maybe two cards, haha! Anyway, quite a wit (no not half wit, hey, a two of wits?)
Ok, Well done & done well. Keep up the good spirits.
Cyn
Nova Scotia
Unfortunately I myself am not diagnosed with anything to explain why I am different than the norm, but I get that! haha

You've got guts, that's for sure! I could never put my singing on the internet. Thanks for that little bit of humor. This time of year is always difficult and this year is no exception. However, I've been feeling like I don't want to be here for most of the year. I had a meltdown at work last week and now I don't want to go back. I only wish I could get cancer, refuse treatment and just die. But what would all the selfish user people do without me as their toilet to crap in? I appreciate the momentary humor your song brought but reality quickly struck back and life just bites. Can I just sleep through the holidays? Maybe even the rest of my life? Whatever.

WOW! I needed you today. We bipolars have to stick together AND keep a sense of humor. Tomorrow I see my surgeon to deal with the breast cancer they just found.....LOL.....like asthma, hypothroidism, bipolarism, weren't enough!!! Now I'll never get life insurance.
Keep up your spirit. The rest of us need it. And, yes, for those of you who haven't walked the walk, often the psych ward is the safest place. I wish more people would visit that location THEN the world would be a saner place.

I LOVED it!!! Life has it's share of wounderful difficulties (LOL), no one is exempt and no day is without, some just a little easier to deal with than others. But Laughter is the best medicine. To make one person laugh is a very high accomplishment, and the fact that you have made many laugh on such a touchy subject is very desreving of angel wings. Thank you. If you should ever feel down remember at least one person you brought laughter to. Sometines our onr of our purpose in life is just that. Thanks so much. I love you.

great. Now I have something to sing about

Thank you,thank you,thank you. You are lovely and so was your song,many could learn from you. Make fun of your self and you will be healed.Happy Holidays,you deserve them. OH,and you are better than BARB!

You have had to be hiding in my closet. Today I needed this laugh! Thank you for giving me an uplift to make it through this Christmas in Florida, when I would much rather be snowed in up North

I needed this! Every year at Christmas I walk on eggshells with my bipolar child. Thank you for giving me something that made me chuckle, reminds me I am not alone, and something I can share.

Isn't it great knowing you have a room waiting for you? It is for me! Merry Christmas to you and yours,

I enjoy reading your column and your insights into the human condition and psychological illness. However, today, I wasn't moved, inspired or entertained. The holidays are a challenge for even the most stable minded or "normal functioning" individuals out there. Quite frankly, on my santa list of Christmas's future, I wish for better break throughs in psychotropics and the treatment of mental disorders, not a room at John's Hopkins, although their staff is quite admirable. People with Bipolar disorder get discriminated against enough as it is, please write a happier twelve days that honors our existence here on earth. After all, indiiduas with bipolar disorder are people who are mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, aunts, uncles, cousins and someone's friend, mentor or personal confidante. I wish for a happier understanding of each other while we traverse this expereince we call our lifecycle---may it be a long and well written one.

Thank you again for your comments. Happy holidays to you and your family.

Re: Understanding Reader. If you've been following this blog for any ammount of time you DO understand that there is a great deal of gallow's humour that goes on here,don't you? If we were'nt able to poke fun at ourselves and diminish some of the cruel attitudes people have toward these illnesses, it would be so much more difficult to deal with the world at large. Sometimes you have to lighten up or run screaming into traffic! Laughter is still the best medicine. (and the only one with no side effects) I hope you can discern the "spirit" in which this post was displayed and not be offended by it. I am quite sure no disrespect was intended and I second your desire to see progress made in the treatment of bi polar and similarly affected individuals.

Bravo! my sentiments exactly... Thanks for the good laugh.

Absolutely loved it!!! Quite sagacious and funny. I am sending this to all my family and friends. Thank you for your bravery of doing that.

Namaste, Just what you wanted to hear, like the welcoming of your next yoga session. Thanks for sharing this in the light of humor you brought to it. Interesting holidays for me. I'm just divorcing my bi-polar, alcoholic husband of 10 years. I'm so happy and grateful to be alive now. I can feel joy and peace and express it in my own home without getting yelled at because he's so miserable. Who knows, maybe he'll spend his holidays in a place like John Hopkins psyche ward, I wish him the best, merry merry, just do it as far away from me as possible. Oh God, I'm free now after 10 years of feeling like I was a hostage. I know the alcoholic and bi-polars suffering is far greater than mine, I just couldn't live one more day with insanity. The ironic thing is that everytime an episode would occur, it just felt like a roller coaster taking off that had a big hook on the end and when I didn't even know it, it grabbed me and off on the roller coaster ride we would go. Thank you God for giving me the courage to leave. I will ever be grateful and help others to live peacefully and happily.

Thank you for this smile, and many of the other smiles/comforts I receive from your writings. I first started reading your musings because of the name Borchard (grandmothers maiden name) but have continued because you seem to know how I feel at times. Thank you very much............Jeanne

Wonderful, absolutely wonderful. My only two disappointments: I would like to have (honestly!) heard the whole thing and I would like to have the written lyrics (I often have an issue discerning the words to music).

While my depression was not nearly as deep as many have endured, I certainy can relate to the song and I am certain most others can as well.

I could go on for hours about my bout(s) with depression and what it means to me (and I believe others) but that is not what 'this' is about. 'It' is about lovely Therese being given a gift and then, with wisdom and love, sharing it with those of us that need it as well.

Thank you, Therese, for sharing.

Love & namaste,
Mike

Funny Funny Funny-this was good for a very much needed laugh in this hurry up world.
~May God's unseen hand hold you and bless you~

That was just too funny...and sometimes too true. I laughed my butt off. Thanks!

Bright Blessings!

Dearest Therese...you are an angel...and with a sense of humor such as yours, you cannot help but heal...your own life and the lives of others...having been married to a schizophrenic and having a son who may be bi-polar, I can actually laugh wholeheartedly at the muse in the song. Truly you have made me full of joyful laughter this day, and inspire hope in all of us...no matter what our mental state...God Bless you and Happy Holidays!

YOUR SINGING IS A GIFT OF SPRIT TO ALL WHOM HAVE BIPOLOR !
I INJOY HEARING CHRISTMAS SONG`S. AND YOUR`S IS GREAT. THANK YOU-
VERY MUCH FOR SHAREING. AND MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY !
INSPERATIONAL

Loved it,Loved it,Loved it, You sang my song.It really made me smile!THANK YOU

Why not sing a second jingle about people who kill themselves at Christmas time?????
That's the dumbest thing I have ever seen.

Dawn, if you are not bi-polar, or are with no sense of humor, and are having a tough time, you shouldn't be reading this blog. There are many other "serious" bloggers and authors out there that may fit better for you.

Therese contributes a lot to us, as you can see by the other posts.

You're entitled to your opinion, but as a Therese fan, I was insulted by your post. (Oh, did you hear on the news this morning that a young man killed 8 people in Omaha Nebraska at a shopping mall, allegedly because he got fired from MCDONALD'S ? How incredibly sad.)

That would be the subject of a completely separate blog, and not the 12 Bi-Polar Days of Christmas.

Prayers for you......

I thought your blog was kind of depressing, but it can be a stressful time of year for the people who do have bipolar and those folks could use ALL the prayers they can get and they should pray for God to give patience to deal with the holidays and they should always take their medications. Hopefully everyone with these types of problems will have a wonderful Christas, I plan on it.A positive attitude and a little humor always helps. I really like and understand what you had to say !!!! LaDonna

As the mom of a bipolar, alcoholic, I had hoped he would listen, but to no avail. His loss!God bless us all.

I thought the video almost painted a picture of myself at times it really made me laugh, I needed that. even one doesnt want to admit I think each and every one has one kind of problem or another if it bi polar or what.and I agree a little laughter in ones life is F A N T A S T I C ......... HAPPY UN STRESSED HOLIDAYS.

great clip it sounds like what my freinds would give me for christmas.we all have to have a little humor. thanks

Therese~
As always, you are a Blessing to us all!!!! Thanx, again, for your special way of getting across what we all think, but don't dare to say.
I truly enjoy reading your blog and especially your video-casts. I've said it before and will continue to do so, that you are truly a very special lady. You have helped millions--maybe trillions--of us who daily walk the road of the depression/bi-polar highway.
You make it easier for all of us to see ourselves in a different light. You dare to put into words what we don't dare even think to say. I believe that God has set you upon a special mission to reach many.
I wish for you and your family a Very Blessed Merry Christmas and A Wonderful and Happy New Year!!!!
Best Wishes....and a Heartfelt Thanx to you....You will Always be in my thots and prayers~
Chris*
purplefox

I am most surprised that so many people found this funny. I suppose it kind of fits in with the 2007 warped humor going around that makes fun of people. I think mental illness is a very serious condition that too many people don't understand or take seriously. Making fun of bipolar people with a song like this only takes the dignity away from these people. Maybe the doctors and nurses can sing it to their families after their Christmas shifts in the psych ward and have a laugh. Just as I wouldn't find a song mocking anyone with any kind of handicap funny, this was kind of sad. I'd prefer that you stick to singing it in the shower to yourself or at your therapy sessions. I pray that I will be singing something more positive on the Holidays like Joy to the World.

Keeping a sense of humor is a step toward good health and shows you are coping with your problems in a positive way. Good for you! God bless you and keep you well for your family's sake and have a blessed Christmas.

That was great. My son (23 yoa at the time)was diagnosed in Feb. 2000 and we've been through hell and back. I could write a book but I would have to sell it for fiction because no one would believe the stories we have to tell. No it was not fun nor funny at the time...but we have to look back and laugh to keep from crying. If you don't, you will be consumed with misery and anger. Besides, a sense of humor is one of the greatest aids for good mental health. Also, for those of us that have "been there" we aren't laughing at you...just with you because it makes it more bearable. I work with "at-risk youth". After my son was diagnosed and we had several "adventures" I asked God why it happened to "us" because it affects everyone close. Since then I have had to deal with several bi-polar kids and their families and hope that in some way I've helped. He has been able to share his story in hopes of helping someone cope. Hang in there and maintain that great sense of humor.

You are brave and funny. Can you please tell me what the details are of your facial fungus. I believe I suffer from that condition but cannot get my doctor to diagnose it ultimately or give me medication to clear it up. Flares up during times of stress and I am very tired of dealing with it. Any info you have would help. Thanks.

I know how you feel over having medical problems & the prolonging of the illnesses you face. I deal with endometriosis (cysts) seizers I'm anemic & I have depression from all of this. These pains are unbareable! Along with how I developed these illnesses to start off with are just added to my pains (emotional issues). It seems like a never ending situation. I try to focuse on God to help me cope with all of this. Sometimes it feels it takes more then just faith to helping you get through day after day. The discouragement there can be overwelming. So I know where you are coming from. But I'm always told to hang in there. & God will one day get me through. I have come to realize there are others out there like me. So as I went to read your story I knew then you are another one that can relate. Everything you described based over your feelings felt so close to home!!

Karen Johnson

Hi Therese - I loved your video song - what a beauty you are!

I find that those of us that battle depression are also very creative. Our minds race from idea to idea, thought to thought, distraction to distraction. But, during those times that we've harnessed the energy of our brains, we create and do amazing things.

Happy Holidays, my friend! -Nancy :)

Oh, I love you so much! I cry with you, I laugh with you; I especially laughed at your last videopost "The 12 Bipolar Days of Christmas!!" That was the first time I laughed today. It's really great that you are here, Therese, to relate to, and for all the times I feel like I am all alone in the world. Thank you!!! and Merry Christmas!!!

Thank you for sharing. Everything positiive is always welcome by me. Attitude is very important, and you have certainly shown a very positive one. More blessings to you.

Wow! I never comment on these, but since I too had a Pituitary Tumor (which was operated on and the surgery caused a massive brain bleed & subsequent 5 month coma) AND Mitral Valve Prolapse ("broken" heart valve)and I'm only 45, I thought you might like to hear from someone who completely understands what you've gone through.

By the way, the bi polar condition could have been brought on by the pituitary problem - fyi.

Much like you, I have been using humor to deal - although I'm not lucky enough to be able to carry a tune, so my version may be different.

Anyway, this post is a gift to you and a reminder that you are not alone!!! You are welcome to contact me via email - celandnan@aol.com should you wish to share. Happy Holidays to you and your family!
Celeste

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I try to laugh at myself as much as possible, because it helps if I don't get too serious. The fact that you can be silly helps me to know it's okay. And I haven't been in the psych ward for 2 whole years! (That's something of a record for me!) Stay safe and happy--Jana

I don't have bi-polar, but do have depression, along with fibromygalia, arthritis, etc etc. Like you, I would have loved to drop dead so my family didn't have to explain the why I took my own life. So, also, like you, I try to have humor, and, I know each day is a gift from GOD. You hang in there, girl, you give hope!

i know exactly how you feel and i also know the importance to have some kind of humor about. i love your song and some days wish for that very thing

I loved both your story and your video! You made me start my day off with a smile. God bless you and maybe we'll meet someday at the John Hopkins Psych. Ward!

Hmmm, it seems two me that so many weeks ago i were just thinkin ti meeself, just how many days are there to chrismas, but alas, i seem to have fergotten even how many months are in a year. O' is me...

being bipolar myself it helps to laugh at yourself sometimes, this helps alot, i like your song, its cute and funny, we all need something like this to laugh about sometimes. and i do have a good sence of humor too!!! happy holidays to you

Thanks for making me smile. Not a lot of things do that. Btw, just to share my breakthrough with you...I was able to add Ritalin to my meds cocktail and voila! A break in a major depression which had lasted more than 6 months. I'm able to focus at work and avoid sleeping 12+ hours a day. I do take 4 other meds too,but this seemed to be the breaking point. Now, I get to not consider ECT for a while. And I feel good enough to be back, reading your blogs and chuckling, because for a while there, I couldn't even get online much. Thanks Theresa.
Lisa

MENTAL ILLNESS IS NOTHING TO LAUGH AT. IT IS SO DEVASTATING TO FAMILY AND TO THE PATIENT WHO SUFFERS FROM IT. THERE NEEDS TO BE MORE MENTAL ILLNESS AWARENESS JUST AS WE MAKE PEOPLE AWARE OF AIDS AND DRUNK DRIVING!! AND IF YOU ARE MENTALLY ILL GET HELP YOURSELF AND YOU FAMILY BEFORE ITS TOO LATE.

the message is lost because of the bad singing. i just wanted to turn it off.

OK, Alice, we all know it's a serious illness. If you have bi-polar disorder or love someone with this illness, I think you've figured that one out. However, the beauty of Therese's Blog is that she is able to infuse a little warmth, humor, and humanity into what can be a devastating and, yes, life threatening illness.

Elsewhere on Beliefnet, I've seen a few columns written by a truly gifted author (whose name escapes me, unfortunately) who chooses to approach her struggles with cancer with a little warmth, humanity, and, yes, humor. She, too, has a real gift for looking at something that would otherwise crush the human spirit and fight it with the best weapon she has: laughter.

I've had Bi-Polar disorder for most of my life. I take medication for it, along with many of the other treatments that Therese mentions in her new song. Many patients find that a combination of various therapies are more effective than any single therapy alone. While the song is humorous, the message behind it is sound.

laughing at ourselfs is important, everyone has to well or not, we all do dumb things, staying on my meds is the most important without them I am unable to do the family thing right up there with meds in importance I love them they love me it has taken a couple of yrs for them to trust me and see that the meds work good sleep is needed to stay level for me a routine helps also just so glad I feel what might be really close to normal my oldest son,of 2, almost gave me a hug last night I don't push or ask anymore' no more desperation in my life, such a relief, I will stay on the meds because my life is better, so expensive, it is easy to understand why some don't use meds, without some kind of insurance they are not affordable to most, I take trileptal 1200 milligrams at night[ causes double vision ] thanks to all

Ive BEEN reading these "Whatevers" & "I" THINK, THEY make "A lot!" of sense!

Now, I just gotta say, BEEN on "BOTH~!" sides of the road-u know, THIS "Joke!?" they COULDNT FIGURE, ANYTHING, BUT "Life!" tp call!

I DID, ask My Shrink, ONCE-"Whats "NORMAL!?" ("DO" HAVE "ANY" replies!?)

The holidays are a HORRIBLE time of year for me since my father died and my ex husband took the children from me. I thought I could never laugh. I knew something was wrong and of course they told me I had holiday depression. News flash there... Then I came across your video and OMG did I laugh. It felt so good to see someone take the negative in their life and with a little humor turn it into a positive! THANK YOU!!!

GREAT TO BE IN TOUCH WITH ONES REALITY.
CHECK THINGS OUT HELPS TO BE REAL
THANKS
RUTHIE ,CA.

Thank you for giving me hope. My daughter won't let me see my grandchild. My family thinks I'm crazy, because I won't be a puppet. I almost lost my son 3 weeks ago and I'm soo grateful to God for the blessing of saving him...There are no words... After seeing his car, I do believe in Miracles. I always have believed in God. I have so many emotions I'm trying to deal with.

Readings on Beliefnet help me soo much. Thank you for your encouragement.

Shirlene Gosek

sorry, but I didn't find anything humorous about your little jingle...never being married as you are, I really thought you would say that God, not your husband, gave you such and such. Being bipolar now for 20 something years, and only 46 years old now, I can reflect on those days of anguish during bipolar attacks and everytime I do, I feel pain, not the urge to sing about the supposed gifts your hubby gave you. Perhaps, if your hubby is this generous to give you all these strife driven gifts maybe it's time to remarry another fellow...I know the song is meant be be hilarious, but having an excellent sense of humor myself, I just cannot find anything funny about your skit. sorry, had to write my negative comments Nice try, perhaps after your divorce from current husband.

Dear Therese,

Thank you for the 12 Bipolar Days of Christmas! I'm bipolar and it made me laugh out loud. I shared it with all my "psycho" friends. Sometimes all I've got left to hold me together is a sense of humor.

Keep the faith,
Tom

When you started your rendition of the 12 Days of Christmas, and you said my husband, I felt envy. I have Unipolar Depression and a panic disorder, and I am in remmision now, however, my husband left me because of my health. I begged him not to leave. Our two children were little then. He showed no compassion. Anyway, he found another woman before he left me.

Newly diagnosed bipolar. This site has helped me to know that I'm not alone. And still have a great deal to learn about this aliment. Sincerely,
Regina Gilliard
Phoenix, AZ.

Sorry I didn't explain myself clearly, Larry. Of course that young man had a mental disease.

I think that Alice, Adrienne, and the person who won't even post with name or nickname, should find a different blog.

Dear Over-Comer!
I keep telling myself someday I will be a permanent (not feeling as if I have one foot on a banana peel ;^)! ) member of that group. I so enjoyed your musical Christmas present. Dorine

GOOD FER YOU!!!! I also "possess" Bi-Polar disorder and as the other ... lady I believe said it DOES NOT possess me!!! I take one med a day for my BP and I manage very well with that. I was diagnosed in 96 with mine and it took a bit to find which med would make my life as normal as is possible for me with all the other "stuff" in it.... you have rather inspired me about my own cholesterol which is though the moon!!
I will remember you in my prayers and ask that you do the same, and also my sisters man just had surgery on his tongue to remove a cancerous tumor and they took quite a big hunk of it and he has always used his mouth for his living, lol, i mean he talks for a living. My sister is a rather weak of heart and constitution type pf person and she already looks like she is going fall apart and this ordeal has just begun so if you think of it a prayer for Mark and Cindy would be DEEPLY appreciated!!!!
My blessing to you and thank yo8u
K

You are BRAVE - that is inspiring - thank you for taking the plunge into the singing. - Grace

I sent this to my husband who thinks I am crazy, mainly to give him gift ideas!

I sure appreciate the humor you injected into your situation.

therese i never get tired of this.i share it with evrerybody.i think its the best christmas tradition anyone can have lol... hope you are enjoying the holidays.

I just love this...I listened and forwarded to everyone last year and this year! It's always good to laugh. Thank you!!!! I applaud your bravery in doing this.
thank you, jana

I take meds for clinical depression. I also do small animal rescue(if you can't laugh while caring for 5 rescued pet rats & a off-the-chart ferret, you're in the wrong line of work..lol!). That has got to be one of the funniest videos I've seen in a long time!
Take care all & Happy Holidays!

Amen! Ain't it a b****? Thanks for letting me know I'm not the only intelligent, attractive woman with a messed up head that is my own worst enemy.

thats not funny at all!! There are alot of issue with biopolar and its no laughing matter!! The video sucked by the way!!!!!!!!!!!!

I think you have covered bi polar disease very well. I can relate to your feelings of having a heart attack being much more politally correct than an overdose, which, I think about also. I think you have created a living memorial to yourself, and the depressed during the holidays. TY

Oh my gosh I never laughed so hard. Being Bipolar and all that goes with it my husband lovingly refers to me as defective. We both laugh. I thought that was priceless. You gotta keep that laughing spirit.

An absolutely terrible example of Bipolar. Wow what critical way of seeing people with Bipolar Disorder.

While I am glad you kept your sense or humor, I must have missed something in translation, even though I do share your sentiment. Regretfully, I do have to say you may be lucky to not have gotten an extra day in that ward for singing. I guess you did this after you got out instead of before.

I guess I just can not find the humor in this! Of course I am not the one in my family suffering from Bi-polar. My mother has had this disease among others and being raised by someone that was in and out of pysch wards, abusive at times, and really not a mother at all makes you realize that this is no laughing matter.

Happy Holidays! I love your humor. My father and sister suffer from bipolar disorder, and living with them is quite an experience. It takes a lot of humor and forgiveness to survive.

Katherine;
I love your piece; Been there ; Done that; Bought the t-shirt. Old enough to be your Mother to Boot. More experience! Some time things were crazy, but I survived. I made it one day at a time. 35 years. I got Lucky; I married someone who loves me just as I am and I love him the same way. God had a laugh on me. Thanks be to Him!!!

Bravo !!!!! Having been Bi-Polar in my early 20's then it being Dormant for 20 years,and now Back, its nice to see it doesnt have the hush hush stigma of past years. I love the song, and at the moment would love the 12 days of gifts.
P.S. If you figure out what the cost of the 12 days of gifts would be that would be outrageous!!!!

MY THOUGHTS WERE RACING FASTER THAN I COULD TYPE - FORGOT TO POST MY NAME......LOL

I am happy that when I feel So Badly I still will not let pity or a dourness take 100% hold of me ESPECIALLY when seeing "one of my own" make fun of an often humorless condition.disorder/illness,dis-ease,etc...I am sorry for you Dot and I am thankful l am not in the place that Dot is. I go there and being there is horrible and lonely. "Pity,party of one your table is ready."
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, creativity and humor with us Therese.

I am also sitting here alone while others are headed out to parties and shopping. I have had failed relationships because of my highs and lows. Relationships are exhausting for me and I have resigned to aloneness for the rest of my life. I avoid eye-contact with men for fear one will ask me out. It is safe in my apartment.

Being Bi-polar has put many limits on my life in that I can't plan anything because I don't know how I will feel from one hour to the next.

I am glad that I found Belief-net. I can at least acknowledge to someone how I feel.

Thanks for your video!! I am bi-polar and feel closest to others with my condition. It is so important to be able to laugh and share your struggles with others (who understand). I am truly grateful for being able to laugh at myself. Please continue your videos. You are certainly a blessing from God.

I have been playing my own version of russian roulette (emotionally anyway)But I am indeed still among the living. I know this to be true because body parts still hurt..ouch! I have finally come to the inevitable conclusion that I'm bi-polar. Dang it! Denial was so much more desireable than admittance. Or is it submittance..well, whatever. It's unfortunately in my genes. Mommy Dearest gifted me and my brother with more than her LOL good looks! Crappy Holidays (Oh that's just me..sorry)

As far as the high collesterol goes do nothing that involves drugs.
Lipitor and crestor cause heart attacks and cancer so what ever you do go natural. My doctor has been trying to prescribe lipitor to me for years and I refuse to subsidise big pharma.

Hello; LOVE your video!!!! YOu are just fantastic. You are actually bringing joy and a sense of humor to others!! KUDOS to you!!!
little about me: Disabled living back at home temporarily. Getting knee rep;acement after holidays and hopefully back to my old independent self. Oh Try looking into garlic in any form. Friend of mine had High blood pressure and cholesterol and controled everything.
HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT HOLIDAY!!! LOOKS LIKE A REALLY NICE CLEAN HOME YOU GOT THERE!
Best to You
Dave

Funny. It's great when you can poke humor at your defects. Like me being a heavy guy. I have the body of a god-Buddha.

That was great, I was on medication,got off,and turn to Prayer Instead.

I think it is wonderful that you can laugh at your physical problems sweetheart.
Laughter is the best medicine which I believe the Lord weaves into our lives as a safety valve.

Your are a wonderful example to other sufferers, and may the Lord bless you as you share this video.

May you have a very blessed Christmas and New Year

That is awesome.... how like us bipolars to something so wonderfully off the cuff. You made me smile and feel a little less alone tonight.
Thanks Beyond Blue.

Your video isn't showing up, there's just a white space where it was. I've had that happen on my blogs a few times. Could you provide a URL so it can be found on YouTube?

That is so great! You have an amazing website.

You are a thing of beauty who should be leading the revolution . . . we are kindred spirits . . . you are totally off the wall and I mean that in the nicest sort of way . . . we should all be so mad . . . nice pearls too . . . and i mean that in the nicest sort of way . . . i come in peace . . i mean no harm . . . . or yer it might . . . tra la la la la . . . . land you back . . . tra la la . . . on the john hopkins psyche ward . tra la