Dealing with the aftermath of a manic episode

I’ve had similar problems after episodes. What has worked for me is I tell people about my bipolar and what it’s really like during an episode before it happens which reduces their expectations and increases their compassion/understanding. I don’t do it as an excuse but more so of when this happens it’s really hard for me to manage life so these things may occur and it’s not because of something you did or that I’m trying to push you away it’s so that I can be functional and if I don’t then I explode which I’m trying to prevent that from happening. This would be helpful and this would not be in those times. Basically seeking support before shit hits the fan and then I have to clean it up. And if I can tell I’m about to have an episode I’ll let the person know so they have a better understanding of what’s going on and if they’re in my actual support then they can actually help instead of thinking they’re helping but making it worse/more to handle. It’s worked a lot better for me than trying to hide it and then something happens and blindsiding ppl and having to apologize. I still feel I have to apologize a lot because I acted in a way that I don’t feel good with or if I hurt someone but it is much less catastrophic when they know what’s going on with me. I also feel like doing so allows me to be more open and let people in when I’m struggling because it’s not such a big deal if they already know and I know they’re safe to let in.

When I'm manic I don't sleep. Sorry to hear about your friend

Yes sweety I think all bipolar people have dealt with those episodes, all you can do is be honest with your friends and family about what you're going through and always remember that bipolar is a disease that you did not choose to have to test you still have to try and live as normal a life as possible with such a debilitating disease. Those that truly love you will HELP you find your way through it sweety

Being someone who's been broken up with numerous times due to manic episodes, I understand the struggle. I honestly don't think it's bad to give yourself more "me time" during an episode. Sometimes the only way to avoid doing something you regret is to not give yourself the chance to. If I do though I try to apologize as soon as i realize what i did, elaborating that I'm not using it as an excuse but as an explanation for my actions. Explaining your condition and the symptoms also helps my friends and boyfriend recognize when I'm not being myself, and I'm lucky to have people that care and try to give me space and support during these times. But i still do things i regret and hurt people i care about, and honestly I don't know how to pick up the pieces either. I live with the burden of guilt and regret. But that guilt reminds me not to do it again and to think more carefully when I'm manic by asking myself "is this a reaction I have regularly or is it an overreaction to a small issue?"" Am i really angry or have I not been sleeping or eating?""Do i really hate this person or did they catch me at the wrong time?". I've found it helpful to tell the people in my life when I need space and let them know i may be in a bad mood. I've met some great people that won't get offended by that and will find ways to cheer me up like getting me a small treat or my boyfriend offering to just lay on the couch and play video games/ relax until I feel calm. I also smoke a lot of weed 😂 but don't smoke when you're sad! I mean i still do but it just makes me more sad. But weed has helped me calm down while manic and has prevented a lot of fights with my boyfriend

I am experiencing the same thing right now. This is my first manic episode and was recently diagnosed. I'm not sure what to do either, because apologize, give it time, and show that isn't who I am at my core.