It was my equivalent of a snort of vodka or four-sucks-ciggie.
Just what I needed to settle me down and it worked.
Briefly.
On Tuesday, I was calmly informed by a very kind and professional psychiatrist that I have Bipolar Disorder.
"Well yeah, course she has, just look at her", I hear the voices sniggering.
However it can't be an easy illness to diagnose, considering it's gone untreated by professionals for this long, but yes, at age 45, this is me.
Throughout the week I have experienced so many emotions, relived horrible memories, some of which finally seemed to make some sense, while trying to deal with a "normal" mixed-mania episode.
I figured I was in shock and took appropriate action by wearing the highest, sparkliest crown I could find.
And do the thing that's always pulled me through many mood swings: wear red lipstick.
Did you know September is Liptember month?
Liptember is a challenge to raise awareness of the urgent need for funding of women's mental health research and care.
Lipettes and lipdudes can seek sponsorship in return for wearing their chosen shades of lipstick for the entire month when they're out in public, by buying a Revlon Liptember lipstick, or showing their support by telling others about the challenge via Facebook and Instagram.
I'd hoped to take part in the challenge through sponsorship, but not this time.
Thank you to anyone out there who is doing their bit.
I feel naked without red lipstick.
Wearing it is like carrying a security blanket for me and I guess I'll be relying on my little "friends" to get me through many days and nights ahead.
Do you have a piece of clothing, accessory or make up that you consider your security blanket?
xxx