197: Momming with Bipolar: Alessandra's Way

Navigating Motherhood and Bipolar Disorder with Alessandra Torresani Alessandra Torresani is a multifaceted artist known for her captivating performances in film, television and theater. From her early roles in hit TV shows like Malcolm in the Middle and 'The Big Bang Theory' to her life changing work as host of the EmotionAL support pod, Alessandra continues to captivate audiences. I am excited to dive deeper into her journey and insights into the world of motherhood as it relates to living with bipolar. She is dedicated to de-stigmatizing mental health by spreading kindness, compassion and hope. Alssandra brings tons of fun and laughter to her mission while sharing her story and the stories of others on her podcast EmotionAL Support Alessandra shares her story from being misdiagnosed and eventually finding relief in her correct diagnosis to the challenges and changes she faced during pregnancy, including going off medication. Emphasizing the importance of a support system and community, Alessandra delves into how she navigates motherhood while managing bipolar disorder, offering insights into the significance of routine, therapy, and open conversations. The discussion also touches on the societal perceptions and personal impacts of sharing mental health struggles publicly, the considerations of medication during pregnancy, and the broader implications of motherhood on identity and self-care. Stay connected with Alessandra here and go check out her podcast, EmotionAL Support, here! 00:00 Meet Alessandra Taurasani: A Journey from Acting to Advocacy 01:34 The Diagnosis Journey: Misunderstandings and Breakthroughs 04:37 Embracing Medication and the Path to Stability 06:08 Finding Love and Acceptance: A New Chapter Begins 10:14 Motherhood and Bipolar: Navigating New Challenges 11:39 Creating a Supportive Environment for Motherhood 15:23 The Importance of Routine and Structure in Parenting 19:35 The Lost Sense of Community in Parenthood 20:26 Finding Support and Building Connections as New Parents 23:25 Navigating Mental Health and Medication During Pregnancy 28:22 The Power of Sharing and Supporting Each Other 35:31 Exploring Identity and Motherhood 39:12 Concluding Thoughts on Support and Community