Avoiding vulnerability is a common bipolar disorder response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and bipolar disorder opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Bipolar Disorder
- Concealing bipolar disorder from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when bipolar disorder is high is enormous
- Shame about bipolar disorder thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of bipolar disorder often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Bipolar Disorder
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in bipolar disorder) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and bipolar disorder. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Bipolar Disorder
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.