This week we are continuing our website review series with Pendulum.org.
About Pendulum.org
Pendulum was created in 1996, and it provides a comprehensive guide for those struggling with bipolar disorder and their loved ones. Pendulum provides information and education through statistics and research, blogs, personal stories, connections for support groups, and information for treatment and coping. It seeks to promote awareness and empower individuals affected to live fulfilling lives. Some of the information provided includes:
- Understanding Bipolar Disorder: Pendulum.org offers educational resources that explain the nature of bipolar disorder, its symptoms, and how it affects individuals. It covers both the depressive and manic phases of the disorder and provides insights into the cyclical nature of mood swings. The website effectively normalizes and combats the stigma of bipolar disorder and encourages viewers to learn more about the disorder and how to treat, cope, and support.
- Treatment Options: The website provides information about various treatment options available for bipolar disorder, including medications, psychotherapy, and alternative therapies. A wide variety of options are discussed such as holistic and alternative approaches like supplements and different vitamins, different psychotherapies (cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, etc.), and healthy patterns of sleep, exercise, and more. discusses the benefits, side effects, and considerations for each treatment approach, helping individuals make informed decisions about their care.
- Coping Strategies: Pendulum.org offers practical strategies and tips for managing bipolar symptoms and enhancing overall well-being. It covers topics such as stress reduction, sleep hygiene, self-care, and lifestyle adjustments that can help individuals maintain stability and prevent mood episodes. They outline their recommendations surrounding the loss and difficulties people experience with the reality of bipolar disorder by using the acronym, TEAR (To accept the loss, Experience pain of loss, Adjust to new environment, and Reinvest in new reality).
- Support and Advocacy: The website emphasizes the importance of support networks and provides resources for finding local support groups and online communities. Viewers are encouraged to find their local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), as well as other connections to organizations that can provide support and link you to groups. Pendulum.org also promotes advocacy efforts to raise awareness about bipolar disorder and reduce the stigma associated with mental health conditions.
- Research and News: The website features updates on the latest research findings, advancements in treatment, and new developments in the understanding of bipolar disorder. It offers access to scholarly articles, news articles, and interviews with experts in the field. They have a wide variety of material and blog posts on related matters all the way from books like The Bipolar Disorder Survival Guide to information on substance use, drug tests, psychedelic therapy, facts, treatment, relationships, and more.
- Personal Stories: Pendulum.org includes personal stories from individuals who have lived with bipolar disorder, providing insights into their experiences, challenges, and strategies for managing the condition. These stories aim to inspire and provide hope to others facing similar struggles.
Pendulum.org Resources For Clients
Pendulum.org serves as a valuable resource and support platform for clients, providing them with knowledge, tools, and connections that can help them navigate their journey with bipolar disorder and enhance their overall well-being.
- Education: Clients can become more informed on the nature of bipolar disorder to better recognize symptoms in themselves and others, leading to better informed decisions on their healthcare and options for mental health services, as well as usage of coping skills and support. Clients may find validation and feel empowered by reading others’ stories, books, learning statistics and facts about the disorder, and reading potential treatments and skills for coping and managing.
- Support: Clients can find numerous ways of support through this organization. Clients can find connections to support groups and online communities of others going through or have gone through similar experiences. The sense of community can provide emotional support, validation, and a space for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
- Treatment: Clients can learn about the benefits, side effects, and considerations of each treatment approach, empowering them to have meaningful conversations with their healthcare providers and participate actively in their treatment planning. This creates a coordinated and holistic approach to treatment, combining medical and mental health professionals, as well as self-management.
Pendulum.org Resources For Clinicians
Pendulum.org also offers great resources for clinicians. These include:
- Reliable Information: The website provides accurate and up-to-date information about bipolar disorder, including its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Professionals can use this information as a reliable reference in their practice and stay informed about the latest developments in the field. Educational resources, research updates, and articles can be useful for mental health professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of bipolar disorder. Mental health professionals are constantly seeking to expand their competence and ability to assist clients, and this provides insights into the lived experiences of individuals with bipolar disorder, helping professionals gain a deeper understanding of the condition.
- Resource for Clients: Mental health professionals can refer their clients to Pendulum.org for additional information, support, and community resources. By recommending a resource like Pendulum.org, professionals can empower their clients to access reliable information and connect with others who share similar experiences. This includes facilitating clients in finding online support as well as connections to local groups and organizations.
Specific Resources We Recommend
As we wrap up this article, we wanted to share a few specific resources that we recommend from Pendulum.org.
- Blogs: There are pages of blogs written about bipolar disorder and all related topics. Two specific recommendations:
– Is Flu A or B Worse? Understanding The Differences Between Influenza Types
– Why Bipolar Relationships Fail - Book Recommendations: The resources section of the site has a list of various books related to bipolar disorder, including books on coping with bipolar disorder, accepting treatment, and books for loved ones of those with bipolar disorder. A few books we recommend:
– Surviving Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder): A Manual for Families, Consumers, and Providers (1st Edition) by E. Fuller Torrey & Michael B. Knable
– How to Live With a Mentally Ill Person: A Handbook of Day-To-Day Strategies by Christine Adamec, D. J. Jaffe - Facts & Statistics: This section of the website has a multitude of facts and statistics that are backed by research, like “People with the condition have a 50 times higher risk of attempting suicide than the general population; the risk of suicide is very serious in people with bipolar disorder.”
- Connections To Support Groups & Local Resources:
– NAMI Alabama
– Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
– Mental Health Association of Etowah County
– Mental Health Association in Montgomery
Pendulum.org offers great information for both clients and clinicians. Check back next week as we review another website.
For previous reviews, check here:
- Website Review: National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Website Review: American Psychological Association
- Website Review: Mental Health America
- Website Review: National Child Traumatic Stress Network
- Website Review: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- Website Review: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- Website Review: Association for Psychological Science