A long time ago, I heard a song that contained the phrase: a better place to be. Through the years, I didn’t remember what song it came from or even the basic story in the lyrics; except, I gleaned that this phrase is about looking and wishing for a place that would be better than the present. When I said these words to myself they became an expression of my recurring feelings: a desire to find a place or future that is better or different from the one I have. These are feelings that especially arise when I am in the midst of dealing with the worst of my Bipolar Disorder.

(Related link: Journal Entries that contain the phrase “A Better Place to Be”)

See the Practice Guideline For The Treatment Of Patients with Bipolar Disorder from the American Psychiatric Association for some professional background information and a medical definition of this illness.

In December of 1996, I did an Internet search on the phrase, a better place to be. I found a copy of the lyrics that I originally heard on the radio back in the early 80’s. The song is by Harry Chapin. A copy of the song can be found on these CDs:

The Gold Medal Collection

The Bottom Line Encore Collection

Currently, I think a better place to be has a lot more to do with acceptance of self, taking care of one’s self and facing responsibility… rather than looking for an escape in a hobby, a wild pursuit or an actual physical place. A better place to be can mean striving for health and stability. (Unfortunately I don’t have a magic wand to bring everything into perfect balance.) This task is a very individual journey.

Statement of Intent

This Website is not intended to be construed nor to serve as a standard for Bipolar Disorder. The information contained on the site is not intended as a substitute for consultation with a professional counselor, therapist, doctor, or psychiatrist. Everyone is unique, and he/she ultimately needs to figure out what will be best for him/herself. I can only share about myself. Yet, maybe my story will help someone in finding his/her own better place to be.

Depending on my level of coping or life stress, I may not be able to respond to personal inquiries or email. Please do not be offended if you do not hear back from me. Typically, the questions which I receive from others, already have answers posted somewhere on my Website. Any new topics and information generated from others are being saved for future updates to the site.

Thank you!