Foreword / Winter 2024 Welcome to the winter edition of On The Level!

Winter and Chirstmas can be a challenging time for those living with bipolar, which is why we’re focusing on wellness and self-management tips in this issue. Our readers, members and expert trainers share their own personal tips and tricks and discuss ways you can protect and nourish your own mental health and wellbeing over the winter months. From practicing mindfulness to establishing healthy daily habits, you have the power to find light on the darkest of days.

Someone who is experiencing the joy of wellness is our resident writer, David Carr. On page 12, David explores what it means to be well, reflects on his bipolar journey and looks to a future filled with hope and positivity. We at Bipolar Scotland are delighted for David and wish him – and every one of you –wellness this winter and beyond.

Upon reading recent findings by Cardiff University that women are more than twice as likely to develop bipolar disorder in the years leading up to their final period, we thought it was important to shine a light on women’s health. We’re discussing the challenges of menopause and bipolar and how the blurred lines between symptoms and potential introduction of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), can be daunting for those who are at this stage of life. Read all about navigating bipolar and the menopause and discover expert coping tips on page 18. Meanwhile, over in Research Corner, Dr Aigli Raouna shares her research around the experience of pregnancy and being a mother with bipolar on page 14.

Our contributing professionals, doctors, professors and psychologists bring a wealth of knowledge to On The Level and we’re thankful to each and every one of them for giving up their valuable time to share their expert advice with you all. We’re also extremely grateful to our readers and members for sharing their own lived experience and creative input because without you, this magazine simply wouldn’t be possible. I’m delighted we have so much reader contribution in this issue, including a poem, movie review, self-management tips and a thoughtful essay on fatherhood. If you have something you’d like to share with On The Level, please email editor@bipolarscotland.org.uk with the subject line ‘On The Level’. Our next edition will be out on Wednesday 29th January; we need all contributions in by Monday 13th January.

Wishing wellness and love for you all this festive season. See you in 2025!

Sian Dolan Editor

David Carr discovers the joys of being

Edited by Jamie Stewart and Sian Dolan

Please note that the views and opinions expressed in On The Level are not necessarily those of Bipolar Scotland.

Submissions: If you would like to submit a piece of writing, a photo or an idea to be considered for future issues of On The Level, please get in touch with Sian Dolan (editor@bipolarscotland.org.uk)

We would also love your feedback about On The Level. Send us an email or reach out to us on social media. You can find us on Instagram (@bipolar_scotland) and Facebook (@bipolarscotland)

©Bipolar Scotland 2024 Scottish Charity No. SC021705 Company No. 163305

T: 0141 560 2050 E: info@bipolarscotland.org.uk bipolarscotland.org.uk