What does it really mean to age with bipolar disorder?

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Omar Ghosn, psychiatrist and assistant professor at UC San Diego, who specializes in geriatric psychiatry. Together, we discuss how bipolar disorder evolves with age — medically, emotionally, and socially.

We explore treatment changes, physical health concerns, autonomy, and the complex moment when asking for help becomes unavoidable.

A clear, compassionate, and deeply human conversation about aging and bipolar disorder.

Living with bipolar disorder and addiction often feels like walking a tightrope.
Mood swings, substances used to cope, relapses, shame, and isolation can slowly convince you that there’s no way out.

In this episode of Bipolar Talk, we sit down with Andy Dukeshire, a licensed addiction therapist based in Los Angeles, sober for 19 years, who has spent nearly two decades helping people navigate addiction and bipolar disorder together.

In this conversation, we explore:

• why bipolar disorder and addiction are so closely linked

• why stopping a substance is not about willpower

• the critical role of psychoeducation in recovery

• how long-term stability actually works (and why it takes time)

• how to prevent relapse after hospitalization or crisis

• repairing relationships — including forgiving yourself

• and most importantly: how to rebuild hope when you feel broken

👉 This episode is for you if:

• you live with bipolar disorder

• you struggle (or have struggled) with addiction

• you are a loved one or caregiver

• you work in mental health

💚 At HopeStage, we believe recovery is possible when people are given the right tools, clear information, and real human connection.

📩 Need support or want to reach out?
Leave a comment or contact us — you are not alone.

What does a psychiatrist really see, feel, and understand when working with bipolar patients every single day?
In this powerful episode of Bipolar Talk, we sit down with Dr. Annie Abraham — a consultant psychiatrist with more than 30 years of experience across India, the Middle East, England, and Australia.

From childhood memories of stigma and fear, to the evolution of psychiatric care, to her heartfelt philosophy of compassion, Annie opens up about what really matters: early help, honest communication, minimal effective medication, lifestyle, connection, and kindness.

We explore:
✨ Why labeling too early can be harmful
✨ How psychiatry has changed since the 1970s
✨ The balance between medication and lifestyle
✨ Why sleep, routine, and nature matter more than we think
✨ What she wishes every newly diagnosed person knew
✨ The real emotional weight carried by mental-health workers
✨ How to hold onto hope, even when everything feels dark

This episode is raw, human, and overflowing with wisdom.
If you're bipolar, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about mental health — you’ll walk away with clarity, relief, and a renewed sense of hope.

🔗 Want to learn more about bipolarity and access our resources?
Visit Hopestage.com — free tools, a supportive community, and programs designed to empower your journey.