Letting Go of My Manic Superpower
Choosing stability over the rush of emotional highs this holiday season
Holidays are supposed to feel jolly, right?
For many, it means joy and celebration. But for some, it’s a time when emotions can feel overwhelming—and not always in a good way.
When Emotions Feel Too Big to Handle
Have you ever felt like your mind was racing, as if it couldn’t keep up with everything you were feeling? That’s what happens to me during a manic episode.
One moment, I’m calm as a lake, and the next, it’s like my brain explodes with so much passion, love, excitement, or even frustration. This often leads to actions I later regret.
But here’s the thing, recognizing patterns is a game-changer.
Are there certain times or triggers when you notice your emotions running wild? Awareness is the first step toward managing them.
Homesickness and Joy
Once, when a dear friend from the Philippines visited, I was so happy I could fly! We spent the day reconnecting, speaking Tagalog, and reliving old memories. It felt incredible.
But when she left, joy turned into homesickness—and then mania. The mix of emotions pulled me in two directions: grateful for the moment but aching for a childhood home 8,500 miles away.
Have you ever felt joy and sadness collide?
How do you handle that tug-of-war?
It happens to many of us. The key is, learning how to balance these feelings without letting them take over.
Understanding Mania
What is mania? Here’s a table of its triggers and symptoms:
Mania sneaks up when least expected. It’s as if the brain can’t handle the flood of feelings, so it goes into overdrive.
Even though I can now recognize the signs, managing it is still a challenge.
The Support System in Action
Intense emotions knock you off balance. Here’s what I’ve learned to help ground myself:
Lean on Others:
A hug can speak volumes when words feel like too much. Find someone who can simply be there.
Talking helps too—but only with someone who listens without judgment or wanting to fix you.
Don’t forget the Basics:
When emotions run high, self-care slips. Pay attention to sleep, eating, and hydration.
Can you ask for help when needed? For me, my husband takes over childcare and encourages rest when I can’t do it myself.
Use calming tools:
Music has been my lifeline. Do you have a song that soothes you? Create a playlist for tough times—it helps more than you think.
Deep breathing or even stepping outside for fresh air can reset your energy.
Mania as a Superpower
Mania used to feel like a superpower. My hyper-energy was boundless, and my ideas were brilliant and infinite. But over time, I realized while the highs felt amazing, the crash was devastating—not just for me but for those I love.
Choose stability.
It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. Now, I focus on small, positive acts each day—taking care of myself, staying grounded, and showing my child what resilience looks like.
What about you?
How do you manage your emotions when they feel too big?
What tools help you stay steady?
One Positive Act at a Time
Whether you experience mania or struggle with intense emotions, find what works for you.
Maybe it’s driving to a beautiful body of water with your child, reaching out to a friend, or even permitting yourself to rest.
What’s one thing you can do today to take care of yourself?
Emotions, even big ones, are temporary. You’ve got this, amazing, superhuman!