Author: Dom Auton

  • The importance of routine

    Over the years through episode after episode I’ve learnt certain ways and methods that help me to ground myself.  From strategies, like Transcendental Meditation (TM), to Feel Good Tasks (FGT’s) such as tidying the contents of a draw, they all help me to manage my condition.  I have also borrowed many from other people, whose…

  • Forest Bathing

    Over the last 15 years as I’ve battled with my mental health I’ve developed coping strategies, one of my favourites is forest bathing. Doctors in Japan recommend Shinrin-yoku to their patients. It is widely recognised as a form of preventive healthcare and a legitimate therapeutic practice to manage stress and anxiety. I’ve used this strategy…

  • New Year, new plans?

    New year’s day isn’t always a day for resolutions, for some it’s just another day… As I sit in my study before the day begins I’m reflecting on the year that’s passed, a year of change and plans for a new beginning. I have big plans for 2026, but I’ve been here before, many times.…

  • Four Brains

    Being bipolar is like having multiple brains, for me it’s four; when I’m hypomanic they all work simultaneously and when I’m depressed three of them are dormant, leaving the remaining one to slow down almost to a complete stop, especially regarding creativity. I keep myself stable by taking on board the advice of my psychiatrist…

  • My Mental Health Gift

    In 2020, after 10 years of being mis-diagnosed with depression, I finally received a diagnosis that put me on a path to help me get to the root cause of my condition. I may never find it, however the journey will at least help me to understand my condition and teach me how to manage…

  • Thank You Bipolar UK

    Back in 2020 when I was diagnosed with Type II Bipolar I knew nothing about the condition or how it would affect mine and my family’s lives. I’d heard of Bipolar UK, but hadn’t looked into what they offered. Now they’re part of my morning routine. I use the Mood App before I do anything…

  • The Importance of Friends and Family

    Over the years I’ve collected many friends and acquaintances, some have fallen by the wayside, others have become life-long, but one has remained a constant source of support and inspiration for the last 59 years. I’ve known Shay since I was an infant. We attended the same nursery in Moss Side, went to the same…