Bipolar disorder is a serious mental disorder that is a lifelong struggle. It is characterized by severe mood swings and changes in behavior and energy in the form of manic and depressive episodes. This means that coping with bipolar disorder can be challenging.
In addition to the standard approach to treatment with medication and therapy, here are some tips to help you make living with bipolar disorder easier.
Be Informed
One of the best things you can do for yourself is to become as well-informed about your disorder and involved in your treatment as you possibly can to make your journey less rocky. Having in-depth knowledge about your condition and your treatment will give you a peace of mind when you go through episodes that no doctor possibly can.
Have Patience
Finding the right medications can sometimes take time, so it is important to have patience and not expect miracles once you start treatment. It is also highly critical to discuss disruptive changes in mood, behavior, and energy with your doctor so that you can switch medications if needed.
Have a Support System
Remember that you are not alone and also that you must have a strong support system to make your battle with bipolar disorder easier. You can have close family members or friends who understand what you go through, or you can choose to join a support group. Support groups are especially recommended as it can be very therapeutic to share your daily struggles with people who know what you go through.
Have a Routine
It is also important that you have a routine and an overall order in your life, which has been shown to improve the lives of people with bipolar disorder. Having a schedule and structure to your daily life with various activities such as exercise and socializing can help you avoid episodes. Having a regular sleep schedule and getting enough rest is also crucial to prevent episodes.
Have a Healthy Diet
Your diet plays a big role in your overall health but also in your mental health. Having a healthy diet high in nutrient-rich, natural foods can have many benefits for the mind and body just as processed foods, stimulants like caffeine, refined sugar, and excess alcohol can have detrimental effects on your body and mood. Alcohol and drug abuse especially can worsen bipolar disorder symptoms and become an easy trigger for episodes.
De-stress
Stress can lead to manic and depressive symptoms in people with bipolar disorder, so it is important to reduce and manage stress. Stress management strategies such as breathing exercises, yoga, and medication are all effective ways to manage stress.
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