'I am a good example of someone living well with cyclothymia'

Hello, my name is Philip, 68 years old, living between Cardiff and Pontypridd, married to Augusta (but separated for some 18 years).

We have three lovely children together, all now over 30, and two wonderful grandsons aged 17 and 5 who are cousins. This whole family lives in London.

I was diagnosed with cyclothymia aged 48, but when I reflect on my life I can clearly see hallmarks of bipolar in my earlier experiences.

I use various coping mechanisms

I choose not to take medication for my condition, instead using coping mechanisms including healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise (walking), good sleeping habits, and sticking to routines which I vary regularly.

I also take up new interests periodically.

Peer Support Group meetings are good for me

I started attending Peer Support Group meetings in person both in Pontypridd and Cardiff (and occasionally Walthamstow, East London, close to my family whom I visit often) about four years ago.

These meetings are good for me; an environment where everyone understands something about the condition, and where the sharing of stories, information, encouragement and fun in an accepting atmosphere is always helpful and often inspirational.

I experience extended high moods

I have never suffered thankfully from ‘manic’ episodes or been hospitalised, though I do experience extended high moods, with optimistic and productive creative periods.

My depressions, which have been historically life-changing, are usually reactive to external circumstances; sometimes deep and long lasting, more recently temporary (a few months) and less intense.

I worry about my three grown-up children

My greatest concern is for my children, all of whom show signs of my condition, but only one of whom recognises it (and now has a diagnosis of it).

He currently is also living well with the condition, having also gone through life-changing experiences, and is an occasional visitor to the Bipolar UK groups I have introduced him to. He finds them very helpful.

I keep busy and mentally active

Now fully retired, after a career in education and finance, I keep busy with many interests and several friendship circles, including two Welsh classes (one of which I lead), two choirs, U3A (University of the third Age) interest groups, walking groups, samba drumming, and karate classes.

I try to keep active mentally as well as physically via avid reading of novels), enthusiastic interest in modern board games (Concordia, my current go-to), Bible study groups and conversation in a wide range of subjects that interest me, including science.