October 2020 issue 127
Hello everyone!
We hope you are enjoying some nicer weather and fewer Covid-19 restrictions in Victoria.
This month we have new articles for you to read, updated Zoom support group times and dates, and some studies that you might like to read about or participate in.
All the best,
Bipolar Life
Announcements
During lockdown we are holding support group meetings over Zoom.
| Date | Location | Time |
| Tue 3/11/2020 | Combined | 7.30pm |
| Thu 5/11/2020 | Newport | 7.30pm |
| Tue 17/11/2020 | Box hill | 7.30pm |
| Wed 18/11/2020 | Combined | 7.30pm |
| Thu 19/11/20200 | Newport | 7.30pm |
| Mon 23/11/2020 | Women’s | 7.30pm |
| Tue 24/11/2020 | Geelong | 6.30pm |
| Wed 25/11/2020 | Northcote | 7.30pm |
Open meetings are for Bentleigh, Berwick, Frankston & Knox, but anyone can attend.
For up to date changes and to get information regarding logging onto Zoom, check the Calendar and click on the meeting you want to attend. Further information and posts regarding meetings can be found here.
If you have any questions please contact [email protected].
During lockdown we are holding support group meetings over Zoom.
Open meetings are for Bentleigh, Berwick, Frankston & Knox, but anyone can attend.
For up to date changes and to get information regarding logging onto Zoom, check the Calendar and click on the meeting you want to attend. Further information and posts regarding meetings can be found here.
If you have any questions please contact [email protected].
Bipolar Disorder information video
We recently held an information event with four very knowledgeable speakers including our patron Professor Greg Murray. Some really valuable information was shared and it really is worth watching.
Click here to watch.
Coping with suicidal thoughts
We recently produced a video talking about dealing with suicidal thoughts.
Click here to watch.
New community forum
Bipolar Life has recently launched an online forum. This is the perfect place to discuss all things Bipolar.
Find the most up to date information about upcoming support groups meeting – times, dates and events. Tell your story, read about other people’s experiences, find resources, discuss doctors and treatments, contact facilitators and connect with other members.
Click here to sign up or view.
We hope to see you there!
Articles
Why People with Bipolar Disorder are Bigger Risk Takers
Circuits in the brain involved in pursuing and relishing rewarding experiences are more strongly activated in people with bipolar disorder, guiding them towards riskier gambles and away from safer ones, researchers report. The study used brain imaging to identify neural pathways that are responsible for the symptoms of the disorder. The findings will help to design, evaluate and monitor therapies for bipolar disorder.
Body Rhythms and Bipolar Disorder
Nervous system, endocrine, and/or immune system difficulties may conspire to affect one of the less measurable causes of bipolar disorders: disturbances in body rhythms. As discussed earlier, the hypothalamus is the link between the nervous and endocrine systems. Given that the nervous system is also associated with the immune system, it is possible that the hypothalamus exerts its effect on the immune system as well. Thus, the combination of these systems can alter body biochemistry, contributing to shifts in body rhythms such as the circadian, seasonal, and social rhythms.
Studies
Peer Support Study
This research project evaluates the Bipolar Life peer support program by interviewing participants and leaders for their unique perspectives on the program.
Read more here.
New Treatment Trial
The project aims to determine if an extract of mangosteen fruit helps reduce the symptoms of depression in those with bipolar disorder.
Read more here.
Virtual Reality study
The Centre for Mental Health at Swinburne University would like to invite you to participate in research looking at how VR can be used to deliver mindfulness practice.
Read more here.