[LMB] Re: OT: Giving up Reading

[Mark Allums]

In my own experience with bipolar, I discovered that the medication 
changes my personality to the extent that I no longer read with such 
fervor.  Apparently, when I became manic or hypomanic, I channeled my 
energy into reading.  This is certainly superior to the other (classic) 
possibilities, such as sex, drugs, and/or rock and roll.  [I can quit 
anytime I want, honest!]   I still read, but instead of a book a day, 
it's more like a book a week.

--Mark Allums


Jessy Brody wrote:
> Rowena:
>> It is horrifying to me too. I only because it chances your view of
> yourself. Before, if I had to describe myself, I would have included
> 'obsesive reader' without much doubt. I used to be able to read trough
> depression, like something to grab and hold on. But for the present time
> I am no longer that person. (Or I am, and maybe being a reader was not
> such a core element of my personality as I once thought it was).
> 
> 
> Is there a chance you'll change back? It's been some time since you've
> been diagnosed, but can you expect to improve or stabilize further?
> But I would say that you're still an obsessive reader, and that your
> illness is preventing you from pursuing that obsession, just as a
> physical injury would keep a runner from running. Which is still
> incredibly unfortunate. What do you *do* all day?