Ideas What life was like for Luke Galati in a psychiatric ward
Oct 1, 2025
Luke Galati, a writer and filmmaker living with bipolar I disorder, shares his transformative journey through psychiatric hospitalization. Joined by Sanat Sethi, who discusses the realities of bipolar II, they explore the nuances of mania versus hypomania and the challenges of navigating emergency services. Dr. Claire Serra, a neuropsychologist, clarifies the clinical distinctions in bipolar treatments and the side effects of antipsychotics. Together, they shed light on recovery, the importance of family support, and how to live successfully with bipolar.
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Drive To Hospital Before Losing Control
- Luke describes the onset of mania as feeling like superpowers and then detaching from reality into paranoia.
- He remembers being driven to hospital in January 2023 and sensing he needed inpatient care before losing sight of the city.
Use Sleep Need To Differentiate Disorders
- Dr. Claire Serra says lack of sleep that doesn't cause tiredness signals hypomania and points to bipolar rather than ADHD.
- Ask about sleep need and tiredness when assessing possible bipolar episodes.
ICU Admission Felt Like A Fish Bowl
- Luke recounts being admitted to ICU in a small room with little privacy and constant visibility to staff.
- He felt both exposed and less alone seeing others at low points around him.