Lifting with Bipolar

About Lifting with Bipolar

Diagnosed with Bipolar 1, certified personal trainer Jonathan Szarko propels listeners deep into the real, unpolished, and honest truths behind living with a double-edged sword. Bridging insightful topics ranging from mental to physical, Jonathan intertwines his personal story, professional acumen, along with enriching guest interviews that shed stigma-diffusing light on how to manage life with this misunderstood illness. Overall, Lifting with Bipolar is a podcast that was designed to be an educational safe haven offering real solutions from real people – one resting comfortably between growth and catharsis where anyone with Bipolar Disorder can unlock new levels of wellness, fulfillment, and balance amid the highs and lows.

Publisher

Jonathan Szarko

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Mar 2023

Latest episode

7 Apr 2024

Latest episodes

24 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Apr 2024

   23: Beyond the Symptoms: Autoimmune Diseases and the Mental Health Connection

   Summary In this episode, Jonathan interviews Jessikah Kipf, a licensed therapist and PhD candidate in educational psychology, about the intersection of autoimmune diseases and mental health. Jessica shares her personal experience with autoimmune disease and discusses the impact of autoimmune diseases on mental health. She emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to managing autoimmune disease and highlights the role of mental health in supporting individuals with autoimmune diseases. The episode concludes with a case study that illustrates the challenges faced by individuals with autoimmune diseases and the importance of finding the right medical support. In this conversation, Jessikah Kipf shares her personal journey with autoimmune disease and the challenges she faced in getting a proper diagnosis and treatment. She discusses the importance of addressing sensitivities and making medication changes, as well as the role of metabolism and mental health in overall well-being. Jessikah emphasizes the need to seek help and not dismiss mental health concerns, highlighting the impact of denial and the importance of a supportive primary doctor. She also explores the concept of resilience and provides tips for building resilience, including the three pillars of power, perspective, and perseverance, as well as the seven C's of resilience: confidence, competence, connection, character, contribution, coping, and control. Takeaways Autoimmune diseases can have a significant impact on mental health, with over half of people diagnosed with autoimmune disease experiencing anxiety and depression. A holistic approach that considers the whole person, including physical and mental health, is crucial in managing autoimmune diseases. Support from healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians and mental health providers, is essential in addressing the emotional and psychological challenges of living with autoimmune disease. Case studies highlight the complex and individualized nature of autoimmune diseases and the importance of finding the right medical support. Addressing sensitivities and making medication changes can be crucial in managing autoimmune diseases. Metabolism and mental health are interconnected and should be considered in treatment plans. Denial can prevent individuals from seeking help for mental health issues, but it is important to acknowledge and address these concerns. Building resilience involves cultivating power, perspective, and perseverance, as well as developing confidence, competence, connection, character, contribution, coping, and control. Tips for building resilience include advocating for oneself, using lists and notes to manage brain fog, reflecting on patterns and triggers, and not being afraid to seek another professional opinion. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:34 Impact of Autoimmune Diseases on Mental Health 12:25 The Role of Mental Health in Managing Autoimmune Disease 16:13 The Holistic Approach to Autoimmune Disease 40:48 Sensitivities and Medication Changes 41:23 Metabolism and Mental Health 42:24 Denial and Seeking Help 43:22 Primary Doctor and Mental Health 44:14 Discovering ADHD and Trauma 44:42 Starting Treatment and Feeling Better 45:40 Resilience and Positive Outlook 46:08 Building Positive Events and Glimmers 47:14 Three Pillars of Resilience: Power, Perspective, and Perseverance 47:41 Seven C's of Resilience: Confidence, Competence, Connection, Character, Contribution, Coping, and Control 01:06:27 Tips for Building Resilience 01:13:16 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Show Notes: Guest: Jessikah Kipf @jessikahkipf (https://www.instagram.com/jessikahkipf/) (Instagram) Connect with Jonathan Szarko: JonathanSzarko.com (JonathanSzarko.com) @JonathanSzarko (https://www.instagram.com/jonathanszarko) (Instagram) Music: DJ Stryer @stryermusic (https://www.instagram.com/stryermusic/) (Instagram) Citations: Angum, F., Khan, T., Kaler, J., Siddiqui, L., & Hussain, A. (2020). The Prevalence of Autoimmune Disorders in Women: A Narrative Review. Cureus, 12(5), e8094. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.8094 (https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.8094) Autoimmune Association (2024). Tips for Getting a Diagnosis of an Autoimmune Disease. The Autoimmune Association. Retreived March 5, 2024, from https://autoimmune.org/resource-center/diagnosis-tips/#:~:text=On%20average%2C%20autoimmune%20patients%20see,quickly%20at%20an%20accurate%20diagnosis (https://autoimmune.org/resource-center/diagnosis-tips/#:~:text=On%20average%2C%20autoimmune%20patients%20see,quickly%20at%20an%20accurate%20diagnosis). Cojocaru, M., Cojocaru, I. M., & Silosi, I. (2010). Multiple autoimmune syndrome. Maedica, 5(2), 132–134. Conrad N, Misra S, Verbakel JY, et al. Incidence, prevalence, and co-occurrence of autoimmune disorders over time and by age, sex, and socioeconomic status: a population-based cohort study of 22 million individuals in the UK (https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736%2823%2900457-9). The Lancet. 2023;401(10391):1878-1890. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00457-9 Daskalakis, N. P., Xu, C., Bader, H. N., Chatzinakos, C., Weber, P., Makotkine, I., Lehrner, A., Bierer, L. M., Binder, E. B., & Yehuda, R. (2021). Intergenerational trauma is associated with expression alterations in glucocorticoid- and immune-related genes. Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, 46(4), 763–773. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-020-00900-8 (https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-020-00900-8) Dube, S. R., Fairweather, D., Pearson, W. S., Felitti, V. J., Anda, R. F., & Croft, J. B. (2009). Cumulative childhood stress and autoimmune diseases in adults. Psychosomatic medicine, 71(2), 243–250. https://doi.org/10.1097/PSY.0b013e3181907888 (https://doi.org/10.1097/PSY.0b013e3181907888) Mahmoud, N. N., & Rothenberger, D. (2019). From Burnout to Well-Being: A Focus on Resilience. Clinics in colon and rectal surgery, 32(6), 415–423. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-1692710 Mohan MP, Ramesh TC. Multiple autoimmune syndrome. Indian J Dermatol Venerol Leprol. 2003;69:298–299. [PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17642919)] [Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?journal=Indian+J+Dermatol+Venerol+Leprol&title=Multiple+autoimmune+syndrome&author=MP+Mohan&author=TC+Ramesh&volume=69&publication_year=2003&pages=298-299&)] Sloan M, Wincup C, Harwood R, et al. Prevalence and identification of neuropsychiatric symptoms in systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases: An international mixed methods study (https://doi.org/10.1093/rheumatology/kead369). Rheumatology. 2023:kead369. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/kead369 Additional Resources & Information: Autoimmune Disease Awareness https://autoimmune.org/ (https://autoimmune.org/) 3 Pillars: Power, Perspective and Perseverance https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/3-ps-resilience-power-perspective-perseverance-uda-ltd-lpgxe?utm_source=share&utm_medium=guest_desktop&utm_campaign=copy (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/3-ps-resilience-power-perspective-perseverance-uda-ltd-lpgxe?utm_source=share&utm_medium=guest_desktop&utm_campaign=copy) What is toxic stress? https://www.unicef.org/parenting/mental-health/what-is-toxic-stress (https://www.unicef.org/parenting/mental-health/what-is-toxic-stress) Building Resilience in Children: the 7 C's of Resilience https://www.pathfinder.health/post/helping-your-child-develop-resilience-using-the-7cs-model#:~:text=What%20are%20the%207%20C's,contribution%2C%20coping%2C%20and%20control (https://www.pathfinder.health/post/helping-your-child-develop-resilience-using-the-7cs-model#:~:text=What%20are%20the%207%20C). Therapist Aide: Exercise example of one DBT skill, radical acceptance: https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheet/dbt-radical-acceptance (https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheet/dbt-radical-acceptance) Get involved: NIH: Program for Healthy Volunteers https://clinicalcenter.nih.gov/participate/studies/healthy_vol_prg.html#:~:text=One%20way%20to%20volunteer%20is,at%20the%20NIH%20Clinical%20Center (https://clinicalcenter.nih.gov/participate/studies/healthy_vol_prg.html#:~:text=One%20way%20to%20volunteer%20is,at%20the%20NIH%20Clinical%20Center). CLINICAL TRIALS (https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials) https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/deciding-to-volunteer (https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/deciding-to-volunteer) Volunteer https://www.researchmatch.org/ (https://www.researchmatch.org/) Volunteer to take surveys Survey Monkey https://www.surveymonkey.com/mp/volunteer-application-forms/ (https://www.surveymonkey.com/mp/volunteer-application-forms/) Research Volunteer Opportunities https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/research/bpru/research-volunteers (https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/psychiatry/research/bpru/research-volunteers) Qualtrics https://www.qualtrics.com/lp/experience-management/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=NA|SRC|BRD|Qualtrics&utm_content=Qualtrics&utm_term=qualtrics&utm_keyword=e&matchtype=e&device=c&creative=649445351658&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhtWvBhD9ARIsAOP0Goh_q-BLtto8_VYZQw6Xmk1D0Q-VWvyoZ27e5cfVN7oerBZYU1bU5CcaAp_MEALw_wcB (https://www.qualtrics.com/lp/experience-management/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=NA%7CSRC%7CBRD%7CQualtrics&utm_content=Qualtrics&utm_term=qualtrics&utm_keyword=e&matchtype=e&device=c&creative=649445351658&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhtWvBhD9ARIsAOP0Goh_q-BLtto8_VYZQw6Xmk1D0Q-VWvyoZ27e5cfVN7oerBZYU1bU5CcaAp_MEALw_wcB)

2. 

   22 Feb 2024

   22: A Journey of Self-Belief and Mindset Transformation with Aridja Kawls

   Summary In a compelling episode of the Lifting with Bipolar Podcast, host Jonathan Szarko engages with the inspirational Aridja Kawls. They delve into powerful themes such as self-belief, mindset for success, and overcoming challenges associated with bipolar disorder. Aridja shares her transformative journey from battling self-doubt and limiting beliefs to embracing a life filled with dreams and achievements. She underscores the pivotal role of self-concept, the power of positive inner dialogue, and the profound impact of mindset on success. Furthermore, Aridja opens up about her motivations behind starting a podcast, its role in her personal and professional growth, mental health advocacy, and the journey towards self-love. Through her story, Aridja illustrates the significance of affirmations, self-talk, and creating a supportive platform for sharing experiences, aiming to empower others in their mental health and personal development journeys. Key Takeaways - Cultivating self-belief is essential for overcoming self-doubt and actualizing dreams. - A positive self-concept and inner dialogue are fundamental to fostering self-belief. - Mindset is a critical determinant of success and life transformation. - Podcasting serves as a dynamic medium for mental health advocacy and personal storytelling. - Embracing self-love involves introspection, boundary setting, and transforming negative self-talk. - Daily affirmations and positive self-talk are vital practices for enhancing well-being. - Aridja's vision focuses on empowering others to navigate mental health challenges and harness the transformative power of their minds. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 03:34 Chapter 1: Self-Belief and Its Power 09:25 Chapter 2: Mindset for Success 14:40 Chapter 3: Inspiration to Start a Podcast 16:45 Chapter 4: Podcasting as a Tool for Mental Health Advocacy 19:47 Chapter 5: Journey of Self-Love 22:40 Chapter 5: Daily Practices for Nurturing Self-Love 24:43 Chapter 6: Vision for Impact and How to Connect Listeners can engage with Aridja and access her valuable resources on Instagram (@SimplyAridja (https://www.instagram.com/simplyaridja/)), YouTube (The Aridja Kawls Show (https://www.youtube.com/@thearidjakalsshow/videos)), and participate in her mindset makeover masterclass to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Aridja Kawls Links: https://linktr.ee/simplyaridja (https://linktr.ee/simplyaridja) Show Notes: Guest: Aridja Kawls @simplyaridja (https://www.instagram.com/simplyaridja/) (Instagram) Connect with Jonathan Szarko: JonathanSzarko.com (JonathanSzarko.com) @JonathanSzarko (https://www.instagram.com/jonathanszarko) (Instagram) Music: DJ Stryer @stryermusic (https://www.instagram.com/stryermusic/) (Instagram)

3. 

   28 Jan 2024

   21: Echoes of Hope: Andrew & Jonathan's Path Through Mental Health

   Summary In this episode, Jonathan and Andrew have a free-flowing conversation about their experiences with bipolar disorder over the past few months. They discuss recent episodes, hospitalizations, medication management, and the importance of realistic expectations. They also talk about the support they receive from their workplaces and the benefits of boxing as an outlet for mental health. They end the conversation by discussing their goals for the future. In this conversation, Andrew and Jonathan discuss various aspects of personal growth, self-compassion, and balancing work and family life. They also touch on the importance of preserving family legacy and the value of men talking about mental health. Takeaways It is important to have open and honest conversations with loved ones and healthcare professionals about episodes and medication management. Having realistic expectations during mood fluctuations can help in managing bipolar disorder. Workplaces can provide support and accommodations for individuals with bipolar disorder. Engaging in physical activities like boxing can be a beneficial outlet for managing mental health. Setting goals and continuously striving for personal growth is important in managing bipolar disorder. Never be satisfied and always strive for personal growth in different areas of life. Practice self-compassion and give yourself time to recover and heal. Find stability and growth in your work, and define success on your own terms. Preserve family legacy by recording stories and memories. Make time for both work and family, and prioritize communication and connection. Encourage men to have open conversations about mental health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:21 Recent Experiences and Episodes 03:00 Hospitalization and Support 08:11 Managing Medication and Recovery 13:33 The Importance of Realistic Expectations 19:02 Workplace Support and Accommodations 22:02 Boxing as an Outlet for Mental Health 29:23 Setting Goals for the Future 32:33 Never Satisfied 33:39 Self-Compassion and Personal Growth 34:14 Stability and Growth at Work 35:01 Defining Success on Your Own Terms 36:20 Preserving Family Legacy 38:39 Balancing Work and Family 41:44 Men Talking About Mental Health Show notes: Guest: Andrew @bipolar_realtalk (https://www.instagram.com/bipolar_realtalk) (Instagram) Connect with Jonathan Szarko: JonathanSzarko.com (JonathanSzarko.com) @JonathanSzarko (https://www.instagram.com/jonathanszarko) (Instagram) Music: DJ Stryer @stryermusic (Instagram)

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

9 ratings

Spotify

4.6 / 5

11 ratings