Nov 27 2008
A plan for Thanksgiving to keep Bipolar Disorder under control
Today, I will be somewhere overeating in an attempt to keep my mouth shut. I figure that if I keep my mouth full I can’t talk that much. Sensible or not, this is my plan of action.
I am also glad that I have not quit smoking before Thanksgiving because it will give me an excuse to walk outside and be alone for a few minutes when I really need some time to cool down or just get away from everyone for a moment. Hopefully, this will prove beneficial this one day.
My goal is to be as pleasant as possible and try my best not to be confrontational. The only sure-fire way to do this would be sedation, but since that isn’t an option I will simply have to do the best I can while conscious.
I am sure that by now you see that everything must be planned out and I must have a plan of action for every situation. I do have a strong need to be in control but I have found that being prepared is the only way I can manage at times. I know that certain situations can and will arise and it is better for me to have a plan as to how I will handle the situation because I tend to make snap decisions if I don’t.
Of course, part of my plan allows me to vent some frustration without hurting anyone’s feelings on a personal level. When someone is continuing to discuss a topic that pushes my buttons, I am going to tell them. I plan to tell them, “This is a subject that is better discussed when I am not around. I’m going to walk outside for a minute and hope the subject has changed when I get back.” Maybe that will help. If not, they were warned.
I also plan to take m camera. It is easier for me to disconnect from the situation when I am looking through the lens for the perfect shot rather than interacting with everyone around me. It should provide enough of a distraction to keep me on my best behavior. At least for a little while.
Wish me the best, and hope I do not return with my foot in my mouth! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
