Bipolar Simplified!

Ms. Tin (from Holy Child Educational Center) asked me to write a little about Bipolar Disorder. Although I am tempted to ask why. i didnt because I'd like to leave the real story to her. :-) I hope this will give you answers to your questions Ms. Tin! Happy Reading!

Bipolar Disorder is a brain disorder that causes unusual and erratic changes in moods, energy, activity levels and the ability to carry out day to day activities. Bipolar is not your typical mood shifts because bipolar disoder symptoms can result to damage relationships, ineffective job performance and worst--even suicide for some! Many studies stated that bipolar disorder usually become apparent in late teens or early adulthood stage. Some symptoms may appear in childhood and for some, symptoms develop late in life.

The symptoms of bipolar can either be through an overly joyful and excited state (manic episodes) or through extremely hopeless or sad state (depressive episodes) or sometimes (and worst!) if these two episodes come together at the same time (mixed state). Along with the shifts in moods, changes in sleeping, activity and behavior may accompany the symptoms. Severe cases may exhibit these symptoms everyday, all day or at least one or two times week (not severe).

To date there is no cure for bipolar disorder, however, pharmacological intervetions are available to help the person control and manage his/her mood swings and the other related symptoms. Because bipolar is a lifelong and recurrent condition, long term treatment is required. MOOD STABILIZING medications are the first line of medication. Although most of the medications are anti-convulsants, this form of medication controls mood swings more than other types of drugs.

With the medications available in the market now, bipolar disorder can be treated and patients can still live a full and productive life!

Ask your professional mental health experts for additional information on Bipolar Disorder.

The Happiness Merchant

I always believe that happiness is a mental state and a fuel to a sound mental health. However, maintaining happiness in this lifetime (and in this country?!!!) is a challenge. The constant pressure and stresses of life (health and financial problems, national issues, etc..) make happiness a fantasy, elusive to life for the majority! Happiness seem to be a simple and natural concept but how come it's difficult to attain?

Many people look for happiness outside--thinking that happiness is just around the corner--waiting for them to be found! By not looking so far---one can find happiness. After 32 years of existence I knew that happiness is inside us--never outside us. It cannot come from outside sources--relying happiness from the outside world can just give us transitory pleasures but surely--these will lead to disappointments in the end.

Being happy and getting the happiness we deserve is our birthright! It exist within us--infinite, powerful and always available. Finding little pleasures and happiness in what we do is the key element. BY just thinking that you can be happy anytime, anywhere and not costing you anything to make things happen--that should console all of us. Believe that happiness is a choice! The more you open yourself to that belief, the more it will come continously. Allow me to share 5 simple life lessons to help you find the happiness within:

• Dont be afraid to COMMUNICATE.... open communication lines with the significant people in your life, be it your partner, your classmate, trusted adults, etc.. Ignite your innate soft skills by injecting fun and clean humor, cool conversations and light moments. Happiness is infectious and be the virus-carrier! LAUGH as often as you can! This will exercise your heart muscle, increase your immune system and will give you the much needed "feel good" hormones!
• Find a constructive hobby that will absorb all the pressing problems in your current life. Something that will completely absorb you to overcome the meager problems around you.


• Always find satisfaction from the available opportunities in your life! Many of life's frustrations comes from overly high expectations which are not met simply because they were not achievable!


• Be your own bestfriend! spend sometime for yourself--appraise yourself often--take time to enjoy doing what you love!


• Face problems with sporting spirit! Dont be afraid of the little problems--they are spices of life!

The challenge remains---find the always available bliss in your life! Make positive thinking as your choice! Believe me--when you believe that you are happy--you can move mountains!

The MOURNING After

Navigating the swirling emotions of letting go of a loved one (in death or in other circumstances) needs a quentessential people skills. Talking about grieving is a nostalgic event for me. Recently, I lost a friend--she finally succumb to cancer. Our relationship started on a professional level--as counselor-counsellee. After going through series of life-moving sessions, we finally ended the relationship as she flew to the States for a much more advanced mode of treatment. Our constant communication continued while she battled with the disease in a foreign land. After a year, she came back and finally chose to die in her home, with her family and with what she described as " dying in the warmth of friends". Two days before she died, she asked for me and we had the most meaningful talk ever--not as counselor-counsellee but as friends, as life companions. Her readiness to face her mortality was amazing!

Her family though appeared to be more ready than her. This somehow bothered me... Her mother told me that they will easily move on after her passing. Somehow, it was a consolation but it bothered me so much. Knowing my own feelings--I cannot help but ask if there's a need to ressurect grieving! I know we are in an instant society--after losing someone--we are expected to move on easily and immediately. we have the technical and environmental tools to help us move on--but are we forgetting really that grieving and mourning is a natural phenomenon in men. Grief is a natural and normal reaction to loss, that is a reality.

I attended my friends final burial rites and I felt so heavy when instead of finding a rather melancholic atmosphere--it was too joyful (there was videoke, 24 hours television, bingo games, card games, drinking spree, etc..)The family were part of these celebration--the mother managing the card games, the brother was singing so loudly in the videoke, the aunt loudly ranting the bingo card numbers, etc...

I fairly know that people vary in their reactions to loss but what shook me from this experience was the fact that the family seem not to show their emotions of grief. I know my friend's family love her so much. They fought with her when she battled with cancer. They invested so much when she was sent to the US for treatment. I cannot question the love of her family---I knew how much they love her.

After reflecting, with a common thread running through my mind--i came up with simple reflection that maybe--grieving now is not a pressing human-option because of the incorrect information we got from our society --that it is not proper to show your real feelings at any cost. We were taught to bury our feelings with statements like "im fine" although deep inside we are hurting. We were taught to bury all feelings that has something to do with sadness. We were conditioned to think that "when you laugh--the whole world will laugh with you--and when you cry--you will cry alone!"...These and other cliches about grieving has taught us to deny our true feelings--concealing it in the presence of technology and fun activities while we are supposed to grieve. Unresolved and unexpressed grief are cummulative--the effect will also be cummulative...let us all reflect on that.

I always believe that in moving on after a love one dies, we must be willing to re-experience the grief and the feeling of loss and make ways to recognize the incompleteness. From there, our healing starts....

My Favorite Movie Quotes!

Allow me to share with you all my favorite movie quotes( short but catchy, enticing phrases or conversations that sums up the plot, tone or theme of the story)....enjoy reminiscing some of them!

Ace Ventura (1995): "Pride is an abomination. One must forego the self to obtain spiritual creaminess, and avoid the chewy chunks of degradation"

Dennis the Menace (1993): " Why is it that when everyone else feasts on the pleasures of life, I get indigestions?" or "keep your mouth open but dont talk!"

The Last Samurai (2003): "Tell me how he died..." reply: "No, I will tell you how he lived!"
"You believe a man can change his destiny?" reply: "I think a man can do what he can, until destiny is revealed to him"

American Pie (1999): "I need you to reattached your balls!"

Pretty Woman (1990): "We both screw for money!"

Scent of a Woman (1992): "Women. What could you say? Who made em?God must've been funcking genius!" "The day we stop looking, we stop living!"

Angels Among Us (Part 2)

My 8 days vacation with friends was a realization of a much needed dream to finally leave work (temporarily) and just focus on smelling the flowers around me! For the past 3 years I know I've been working so hard.....that vacation truly rejuvenated me physically, emotionally and of course..spiritually. Thanks to Fr. Rikki, Iris, Ronan and Frat Gilbert who willingly shared those beautiful days with me. Our shared experiences was a refreshing change in my world.

Now that I am back home, I cannot help but really appreciate the special angels who made our trip an exceptional experience. These people provided us with quick service, support, attention to details, warm hospitality and great comfort!! WE had such a relaxing time at the Holy Name University SVD House with the SVD Fathers. Special mention goes to Fr. Ted (the ever articulate and smart rector of the community), Fr Andy (his charm and friendship is unquestionable!Thank you Father for the inspiring experience!Your gentle presence and friendship was a gift we will keep in our hearts for a lifetime!), FR, Kito (whose warmth and hospitality made our stay extra special! Thank you for the Bee Farm Experience!), Fr. Milo (and his scary stories!) and Fr. Boboy (with his serious but unexpectedly funny persona!). It is not often that you meet and make friends instantly--we did when we stayed at HNU. Their personal touches, all the little extras, advices and suggestions made our stay extraordinarily beautiful. All of them became our special angels! Our stay with them will become part of the unforgettable memories of beauty, friendship, tranquility, kindness and hospitality beyond expectations! Thank you for opening your home and hearts for us!

Our Cebu vacation of course will never be complete without the support and friendship of the San Carlos University Community. Fr. Jingjong (the vice provincial) became an amazing host and surely, we will never forget our extra pasta experience (with balls!) and the amazingly beautiful "busay". HIs willingness to make special arrangements were admirable. Thank you so much Fr, Jungjong!

Thank you to all of you! We had fantastic time with you all! We look forward to hosting you in Legazpi soon! WE shall never forget your hospitality and will sincerely treausure your friendship!

Angels Among us

I always believe that among us are angels--sending hope and inspiration during beautiful and trying times..

The word angel has always been associated with supernatural beings clothed in white and suddenly appearing from nowhere to rescue people from impending danger----the old conservative idea of angels exists. But--lets open our eyes and see beyond what our consciousness tells us...

You? how about Me? the taxi driver you just met this morning? or the gentle baker when you regularly buy "pandesal" after a morning jog? or the student in your class with the sweetest look? or how about the mechanic who help you out when you suddenly had an unexpected flat tire? Are they angels too?

MY recent experiences of meeting "angels" among us--in human forms--penetrated my consciousness lately. I bet they were God-sent for me! They came to me in different forms, faces and sizes...all of them in one instant--placed a genuine grin on my face and made me appreciate the warmth of God's love.

Few days ago, while enjoying the rainy morning (while driving), I suddenly heared a strong bang! I knew immediately knew it was a flat tire. With heavy heart, I went out of the car and got even frustrated when I saw the damage. While staring at the totally flat-lined tire--two men came out of the passing jeepney and offered help. Scared, fearful and doubtful, I tried telling them that I am okay and that I would just call my mechanic---but these two young men chose to stay and see how they could help. Eventually I gave in and allowed them to do wonder on my car... after an hour---they told me that the car is ready to bring me home! With so much happiness, I tried giving them some little amount but they refused..they told me that knowing that I will be home safely is already a reward for them. They boarded another jeepney--and soon--they were out of my sight--in that instant!

While driving back home, countless memories came of the same incidents as if reminding me of the numerous people who became angels in my life. People who came to comfort, to inspire, to teach me, to lift me up, to save me and much more.

Look around you---count the angels in your midst..I bet God sent you one today!

24 Things to Remember

Your presence is a present to the world.
You are unique and one of a kind.
Your life can be what you want it to be.
Take the days just one at a time.

Count your blessings, not your troubles.
You will make it through whatever comes along.
Within you are so many answers.
Understand, have courage, be strong.

Do not put limits on yourself.
So many dreams are waiting to be realized.
Decisions are too important to leave to chance.
Reach for your peak, your goal and you prize.

Nothing wastes more energy than worrying.
The longer one carries a problem the heavier it gets.
Do not take things too seriously.
Live a life of serenity, not a life of regrets.

Remember that a little love goes a long way.
Remember that a lot … goes forever.
Remember that friendship is a wise investment.
Life’s treasure are people together.

Realize that it is never too late.
Do ordinary things in an extraordinary way.
Have hearth and hope and happiness.
Take the time to wish upon a start.

AND DO NOT EVER FORGET ….
FOR EVEN A DAY
HOW VERY SPECIAL YOU ARE !

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Loving Natalie Grant

I'm so hooked with Natalie Grant's music! A friend of mine sent me 3 albums of Natalie Grant a week ago--I played them on my cd player--and alas--I loved it from the start to her last song! Her music is all about the things of the spirit and a perfect example of a gospel music mainstreamed in a secular world. The special factor that makes her music so different from other gospel music is the "depth" of its message (faith, values, families, etc.), the style and its melody (usually with so much live instrumentation!). Unlike other disposable pop singles---Natalie's music is always captivating. With her powerhouse vocals, heart gripping melody and her charisma when she sings---Natalie Grant is no doubt a household name in gospel music. Her "awaken" cd has so much emotion in it! When I listen to each of her songs, I can't help but really journey within--to feel everything in her song and feel what's deep inside. True to her single--I'm captured!


I can't help but play her songs over and over again--especially when I need a lift from the Lord.





Try listening (free streaming) these songs:

1. Held (so beautiful! my favorite so far!)

2. Captured (i'm truly captured by this song!)

3. You Move me

4. At Your Feet (so humbling!)

5. Breath on Me

6. When God Made you

7. In better hands (I started looking forward to death when I heared this song!)

8. Something Beautiful

9. Wonderful Life

10. In Christ Alone

One-Way Love

"What will you do if you are in a one-way love? A relationship that only one person can relate with--not the other one...in other words its unrequited love." This is the question asked to me by a young high school student I saw for counseling today. Such a million dollar question to be answered by a single (& loveless?)-counselor! Anyway, she expects me to put my thoughts in this blog--so as promised--i'm burning my eyebrow (its 11:45 PM) in writing this post. I believe I already published a related article about this problem but still, allow me to share some of the excerpts in that issue which I believe will help not only Beebs (name changed) but others who are in the same situation.

If your love is one-way, how about reflecting on these thoughts?

1. Honesty and Open-mindedness are big deal! Be willing to be honest with yourself. Opening yourself to the idea that the person you love is probably better off without you is painful but that's the reality. Truly, reality bites and when it does--it really sucks!If your beloved needed or wanted you he would probably have some desire to be with you and that desire would have already shown you enough reciprocation to stop you from trying to get over the love.

2. Don't be selfish. If being with this person would make you happy, but in reality, your presence makes your beloved unhappy, then you should prefer them to be with someone else. Love is about wanting what's best for the person you love, not what's best for you. This may seem a brutal advice--but girl, life is not only about gaining but it is also about losing! What matters most is how you cope with that loss!

3. Love can not be controlled and they can't force themselves to love you. You can't force anyone to love you either. What we should then prioritize is to MAKE OURSELVES MORE LOVABLE--not for the one who rejected you--but for yourself and for others who might take interests in you.

4. If you refuse to be with anyone else, then be alone. It's not so bad, contrary to what the movies and magazines will say. After a while you learn to deal with loneliness. Do not underestimate your ability to cope.

Finally---LOOK AT ALL THE WONDERFUL OPTIONS LIFE CAN OFFER! go out and open yourself to new people and new experiences. Dont die of desperation--It's expected that you feel hurt and depressed, but don't become a pathetic putz! Just LET GO and EXPLORE ways to cope. Instant gratification is great, but in this case you're just gonna have to let time do the healing.

I dont know if I made sense in this entry--but i hope the litle reflections above will be a tiny light for those who are in the same situation!

Just remember--HUWAG MATATAKOT MAGMAHAL! Never Stop Loving!

Mayaman at Mahirap

A friend of mine sent me this article via email. True--it made me smile but--this piece of article also made me reflect...ganito na nga ba ang difference ng mayaman at mahirap? reality truly strikes and when they do--it sucks!

Kung mayaman ka, meron kang "allergy" Kung mahirap ka, ang tawag dyan ay "galis" o "bakokang"

Sa mayaman, "nervous breakdown" dahil sa "tension and stress" Sa mahirap, "sira ang ulo"

Kung mayaman ka, "pneumonia" daw ang sakit mo Kung mahirap, "TB" yon

Sa mayaman, "hyperacidity" Kapag mahirap, "ulcer" dahil walang laman ang tiyan

Sa mayamang "malikot ang kamay", ang tawag ay "kleptomaniac" Sa mahirap, ang tawag ay "magnanakaw" o "kawatan"

Pag mayaman ka, you're "eccentric" Kung mahirap ka, "may toyo ka sa ulo" o "may topak" o "may sayad"

Kung mayaman ka at sumakit ang ulo mo, ikaw ay may "migraine" Kung mahirap ka naman at sumakit ang ulo mo, ikaw ay "nalipasan ng gutom"

Kung mayaman ka, you are referred to as someone who is "scoliotic" Pero kung mahirap ka, ikaw ay "kuba"

Kung ang señorita mo ay maitim, ang tawag ay "morena" o "sun tanned" Pero kung isa kang domestic na maitim, ikaw ay "ita" o "negrita" o "baluga"

Kung nasa high society ka at ikaw ay maliit, ang tawag sa iyo ay "petite" Kung mahirap ka lang, ikaw ay "pandak" o "bansot" o minsan "tiyanak"

Kung socialite ka, ikaw ay "pleasingly plump" Kapag mahirap ka, ika'y "tabatsoy" o "lumba-lumba" ...pagminamalas ka, "baboy"

Kapag mayaman, "fasting" ang hindi kumain Kung mahirap, "nagtitiis"

Kung well-off ka at date ka rito, date ka roon, ang tawag sa iyo ay "socialite" Kung mahirap ka, ikaw ay "pakawala" o "pok-pok"

Kung mayamang alembong ka, ang tawag sa iyo ay "liberated" Pero kung isa kang dukha, ang tawag sa iyo "malandi"

Kapag mayaman, "misguided" o "spoiled" ka Kung mahirap ka, "addict" o "durugista"

Kung may pera ka, ang tawag sa iyo "single parent" Pero kung wala kang trabaho, ang tawag sa iyo "disgrasyada"

Kapag mayaman at sexy, "fashionable" daw Kung mahirap, sigurado "GRO" o "japayuki" ka

Ang tawag sa mayayamang puro gulay ang kinakain, "vegetarian" Habang kakaawa ang mahirap na " kumakain ng damo."

Sa exclusive school, "assertive" ang mga batang sumasagot sa mga guro Pero pag ang mga mahihirap na bata ang sumasagot sa mga guro, ang tawag sa kanila ay "bastos!"

Ang mayamang tumatanda, "are graduating gracefully into senior citizenhood" Ang mga mahihirap ay "gumugurang"

Ang anak ng mayaman ay "slow learner" Ang anak ng mahirap ay "bobo" o "gung-gong"

Kung mayaman ka at marami kang kumain, you flatter your host who says, "masarap kang kumain and I like you, you do justice to my cooking" Kung ghastly peasant ka eating the same amount in the same house, your host will say to himself na ikaw ay "patay-gutom"

Kung graduate ka ng exclusive school at sa ibang bansa ka nagtatrabaho, ang tawag sa iyo "expat" Kung mahirap ka lang, ikaw ay "contract worker"

Kung boss ka at binabasa mo ito sa office mo, "okay lang" Pero kung ikaw ay hamak na empleyado lamang, ikaw ay" nagbubulakbol" ...

Just to make you smile and reflect also! Can we do something about it?