Connect with people who understand what you are going through, seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.
creative_writerSenior Contributor
The recent medication changes has calmed my brain down. I’m still feeling caged up, I know my psych is looking at more frequent therapy sessions if we can get more under ED plan. Once a month sessions aren’t enough. It just feels like the traumatic memories aren’t ending, I’ve been in therapy for years. It’s taking so long to heal. I just want to get to the point the body flashbacks aren’t so regular
In response to: Feeling caged up
creative_writerSenior Contributor
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
GezzaPSenior Contributor
@creative_writer Yes supplements are especially expensive. Had to get krill oil and probiotics that was most of cost. Meds didn’t cost too much.
Glad you are safe. Oh muffins sounds nice.
In response to: Feeling caged up
AuntGlowModerator
Hello @creative_writer! How are you feeling today? 💛
I wanted to stop by and respond to this as well as check-in!
@creative_writer wrote:
@AuntGlow I have my psych, psychiatrist, dietician and GP. My GP does the referrals and general check ins. Psych and pdoc are the mental health supports. Dietician oversees my diet, she suggested some changes to stabilise my weight.
It can be hard to keep up with everything when exhausted. Hence I sort of disappeared from the forums yesterday. Way too overstimulated. Technology stimulates you even more.
I haven’t been up to much. I started my new exercise routine today, same stuff gets you bored over time. I also managed a shower.
Do you have any appointments this week? Also I completely hear you on the technology and overstimulation front. What helps to ground you in those moments?
What does your exercise routine look like atm? And more importantly, did you enjoy it? 🫶
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
creative_writerSenior Contributor
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
GezzaPSenior Contributor
Some of my meds are expensive @creative_writer @AuntGlow . I have extremely high blood pressure despite taking 3 meds for it. Just like my dad did have. Yet my heart is fine. Had series of tests on it a few years ago. Also har cardiogram and brain scan. Horribly unfit though. Imagine lungs are stuffed from smoking. I get puffed out going uphill. The flat is ok but I walk slowly.
Puss is asleep on the chair. It was a reasonable morning but has turned cool now. I’m having a drink.
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
AuntGlowModerator
I am sorry to hear you are feeling burnt out @creative_writer, I understand this feeling well...
It sounds like things are really compiling for you at the moment, so it makes sense why you might be thinking about substances. I can't imagine how overwhelming this all must feel - it's a lot to manage bipolar and ADHD at once. It sounds like SI and other more intense sensations come up when you're exhausted and have more time to be in your thinking mind, is that right?
I wonder if you could try one of these strategies you listed today?
And I love that! That sounds great. I lifted some heavier weights today at pilates actually and felt rather strong.
💪 Good on you!!
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
creative_writerSenior Contributor
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
GezzaPSenior Contributor
i have always been a weakling in my arms and core @AuntGlow @creative_writer . I can’t lift much weight and can’t do sit ups. I can hold a plank for less than 5 seconds even on my elbows and forearms, Trying but just can’t do pilates. Do chair yoga for seniors - can manage that a little bit. Should work on this. Aging really sucks.
I think puss would like to go out but it is wet outside. She is sitting by the back door looking out.
i started to read my new novel but dozed off for 15 minutes. Oh well back to my drink now and check emails.
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
GezzaPSenior Contributor
I had a 15 minute snooze @creative_writer as soon as I started to read my new novel. Oh well back to my drink. Feeling refreshed but definitely not energetic as is normal for me in the afternoons when I get tired. Might try to do some more Spanish though.
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
creative_writerSenior Contributor
Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
You’ll soon be able to use one secure login to access all SANE services.
For added security, members are now required to log in with their email address and password - member names are no longer supported for logging in.
If you had a Forums account before 19 May 2026 and haven’t set up your new login yet, you'll be prompted to set up your new secure login when you sign-in.
Fields marked * are required
