We welcome Dr. Zola Chihombori Quao 👩‍⚕️, a psychiatrist with unique training in addiction, family medicine in the podcast Bipolar Talks 🎤. Dr. Zola joins us to explore the critical intersection of bipolar disorder, addiction, and underserved care.

Together, we delve into the complex world of addiction, exploring its roots in the brain's reward system 🧬 and why individuals with bipolar disorder are about four times more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Dr. Zola shares invaluable insights on how both manic and depressive mood episodes can fuel self-medication , the long-term effects on the brain , and the life-threatening dangers of withdrawing from substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines without support. We also tackle the significant barriers of shame and stigma that prevent many from seeking help ❤️.

This episode is a vital resource for anyone looking to understand the dual challenge of managing bipolar disorder and addiction, offering practical, compassionate strategies for recovery and harm reduction ✅.

Dr. Zola provides a clear, integrated perspective on treatment, emphasizing the need to address mood and substance use together rather than as separate problems. She shares tangible advice on creating safety plans , navigating social triggers , and building a supportive environment to foster wellbeing 🌿.

I invite you to listen to this insightful conversation to discover how an integrated and compassionate approach can transform lives and empower individuals to reclaim their health journey 🧭.