Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes shifts in mood, from extreme highs (mania) to extreme lows (depression). Those with bipolar disorder can also experience changes in energy, behavior, and sleep.
If you’re living with bipolar disorder, you may feel powerless to control your symptoms. While bipolar disorder is typically managed well with a combination of medications and therapy, there can be some other things you can do on your own to help manage your symptoms.
At her practice in Newport Beach, California, Venice Sanchez, MD, and the rest of our team understand that daily life with bipolar disorder can be difficult sometimes. So, we want to offer three strategies that can help you effectively manage your bipolar disorder.
In order to avoid full-blown episodes of mania or depression, it’s important to track subtle shifts in your mood. If you’re able to detect changes in your energy, sleep, or behavior, you’re probably going to be able to prevent a full manic or depressive episode.
You can also keep track of your triggers or outside circumstances that have brought on manic or depressive episodes in the past so you can be vigilant in preventing them. Common triggers include stress, lack of sleep, or arguments in different relationships.
If you do start to notice shifts in your mood or behavior, it’s important to know how to cope effectively. In addition to contacting your therapist, you can do things that help you feel calm, stay connected to others, and engage your interests.
In addition, you should have a crisis plan in case you’re feeling unsafe or experiencing psychotic symptoms. Our team can help you to develop an emergency plan that includes who you can contact, what types of medications you’re on, and what your warning signs are.
Your lifestyle choices have a huge impact on your mental health. Because of this, it’s important to consistently eat a well-balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, and move your body. Try to do these things at the same time every day. Staying in a daily rhythm can keep your mood swings at bay.
Try to keep a strict sleep schedule, eat your meals at the same time each day, and have a consistent exercise routine.
If you’d like assistance coming up with some more effective strategies for managing your bipolar symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact our team for more information. You can also schedule an appointment with us to assess treatment options for your bipolar disorder by giving us a call or using our online scheduler today.
