Coping with Bipolar Disorder by Sherri Mabry Gordon

Author:Sherri Mabry Gordon
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: The Rosen Publishing Group, Inc
Published: 2019-06-12T00:00:00+00:00

Regular exercise is an important part of treating bipolar disorder because it helps to regulate moods. People with bipolar disorder should incorporate exercise into their treatment plan.

Build a network of supportive people. For people with bipolar disorder, it is very important that they have a group of supportive people around them. There will be times when you will need extra help. Find a support group to talk with others about what you are experiencing. Others with bipolar disorder can provide suggestions and insights that those without the condition cannot.

Avoid using drugs and alcohol. Research has shown that drugs and alcohol can trigger an episode. So it is very important that people with bipolar disorder refrain from using any type of substance. These substances also can interfere with how medications work as well as disrupt sleep.

Pay attention to your symptoms. Even if you do everything right, you can still have a manic or a depressive episode. The key is to act quickly when you feel an episode beginning. Your doctor can help you even out your moods before they swing too far in one direction. Then, after an episode, be sure you take the time you need to recover.

How Can I Spot My Warning Signs?

When it comes to bipolar disorder, everyone is different. No two people have the same triggers or stressors. As a result, it is very important to know what things might impact your bipolar disorder or cause an episode. Try keeping a journal or a calendar where you track your moods as well as your activities. This exercise helps you learn more about yourself and what is normal for you and what isn’t. It also can be useful in noticing triggers and stressors in your life.

For some people, an argument might be a trigger while for others it’s a full schedule. Major life events, lack of sleep, and visiting certain locations also can be triggers. The key is to know what affects you. It’s also important to learn how to recognize the onset of mania or depression so that you can get help right away. Be sure you talk to your family or friends so that they also can be on the lookout. Getting help right away when you start to experience an episode can help keep the situation manageable and under control. It also can help keep you and others around you safe.

Some possible signs that you might be experiencing a depressive episode include wanting to sleep all the time, feeling sad, empty, or tearful, or experiencing extensive guilt. You also might have significant changes in your appetite as well as difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

Meanwhile, some possible signs that you might be experiencing a manic episode include feeling overly energetic, having an inflated self-esteem, feeling invincible, and requiring less sleep than normal. Other symptoms might include talking fast or nonstop, having racing thoughts, being easily distracted, and excessively pursuing pleasure. As soon as you notice the first sign of a different mood, check in with your health care provider.

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