Dear Barbara,
Since you have been posting for so long you must realize that some of us have been posting for 10 years and more.
It takes a long time to create friendships.
As far as the chit chat.
This is like a family.
WE care about each other.
Being bipolar is not simply about the disorder.
It effects everything that I do.
WE talk about our lives and how we are doing.
People share as much or as little based upon their comfort level.
Not that long ago I was sharing way too much information because my meds were out of whack and needed an increase due to mania.
The meds take a while to work.
knowing what is wrong with us and doing something to help empowers us.
I have many faults and am trying new things to help myself.
I share these things with others in hopes that I might give encouragement to others to try new things as well...to try to better ourselves...to deal with our issues.
I now have hope that my life will be better if I work at it.
I can't be passive in this process.
Feeling empowered is a very important aspect that I think
we all strive for.
This leaves us not being a victim...which can make us feel helpless.
Our feelings are ours to experience...how we deal with those feelings takes practice....how we react is something that we can control.
When I was manic, I could not control my actions.
I hope this helps in some way, I don't mean to offend you.
beth