Does religion help you cope or hurt you in your treatment for bipolar disorder?

@laurie3jean Hello laurie3jean, thank you for starting this discussion. This is an interesting topic, as religion can play an important or even a changing role in our lives as we age. Let me tag some other members who can maybe weigh in and share their experience.

Hello everyone, I hope you're doing well! How has faith or religion (or an absence of either) played a role in your life with bipolar disorder? Has it had a role at all? Do you feel it has helped you or hurt you? Why or why not?

@Laurie7‍ @heidihildeman79‍ @christiesmith3568‍ @Danika‍ @Paigesc17‍ @Melisa‍ @Santizzle‍ @Noah2142‍ @alickeys1999‍ @Wolfie6499‍ @MotherofDogs‍ @Dingledang007‍ @kaleh725‍ @Essence32‍ @Salemx333‍ 

*We may all come from different backgrounds and faith or belief systems, so let's remember to be respectful as it can be quite personal!* 

Take care,

Courtney

When I am in distress I usually arm myself with my religious jewelry. I wear a "chai" along with a masuza, and jewish star. This makes me feel safer and I often hold the necklaces for even more comfort.

Religion helps me, so does reading my Bible, and prayer.  Faith is a big part  of my life!  I get into 'moods' at time, but then I pray.  Sometimes, it helps...

I personally had a negative experience with religion growing up and my childhood traumas may have contributed to my disorder. So I avoid it. To each his own I guess.

When I had bipolar disorder, faith in God was the only thing that kept me from going crazy. I prayed every day and asked God for help. Medical therapy had a temporary effect. The therapist did not give optimistic forecasts, so I was in complete despair. I continued to believe in a miracle and pray. Fortunately, my prayers were answered. I am gradually getting better and am grateful to God for the opportunity to live a happy life. Faith is what gives hope for a brighter future. I attended church often, but I don't have that opportunity now due to health reasons. That's why I listen to services online. It is an excellent alternative to going to church.

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