Living with bipolar disorder might feel like an uphill battle a strong armour can help you combat it. Bipolar disorder, also formerly referred to as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental health condition characterised by dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels of a person. These shifts can sometimes make carrying out simple day-to-day tasks exhausting.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 4.4% of the U.S. population is diagnosed with bipolar disorder at some point in their lives. While the percentage is majorly diagnosed in adolescents one can be diagnosed with bipolar disorder at any stage in life.
Common Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder can create intense mood swings, disruption in eating and sleeping patterns and unusual behaviours. These shifts in mood or behaviour are called ‘manic episodes’ when a person feels extremely excited, elated, and high on energy. Alternatively, when they experience a sad, tired, and low-spirited phase it is known as the ‘depressive’ state.
The symptoms of these states can last for a day or more. A severe episode might also result in psychotic symptoms where a person hallucinates, feels or hears things. A major manic or depressive episode can create a lot of distress for the person experiencing them and their loved ones. Hence it is important to understand the steps one can take to manage them proactively.
How to manage the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?
Keep track of your moods- Keeping track of your mood is a simple exercise that can help you understand the triggers that might lead to a mood swing or an episode. You can use a physical journal or an online app to note down your mood changes and keep track of them.
Understand your triggers- While keeping track of your mood you can also ascertain the triggers that might have led to an episode. Common triggers can be:
- A major life event- a new job, upcoming family event, wedding etc.
- Lack of or change in sleeping patterns
- Change in diet
- Change in medication or existing treatment
You can always discuss these triggers with your mental healthcare provider and create a plan that can help you minimize the situations that might trigger these symptoms.
Create a consistent routine- Since bipolar disorder can create dramatic shifts in your behaviour it’s always a good idea to keep a disciplined routine about regular activities you perform during the day, to create a sense of regularity and stability. Simple steps like these can help you build a consistent routine:
- Waking up and going to bed at the same time
- Having important meals at the same time each day
- Take medications at a consistent time
Get regular exercise- Exercising has proven benefits when it comes to uplifting your mood, good physical health aids your mental well-being. Keeping an active lifestyle will help you feel more positive throughout the day.
Maintain a healthy diet- A good diet and proper nutrition are imperative in improving your mental wellness. Avoid consuming alcohol and food with high sugar content as the after-effects might make you feel worse.
Create a support group- Maintaining a set of supportive family members and friends who can be reached out when you are feeling anxious can be empowering. You can also look for online forums or support groups near you that can help you seek support in times of need.
While you can follow these suggestions to better manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder it is always advisable to consult an expert mental healthcare professional who can help you with the treatment. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition but can be effectively managed with the right treatment which may include medication and psychotherapy. Consult an expert with Ohio Psychiatric Service for an initial evaluation today and begin your journey towards a happier tomorrow.
Summary
Bipolar disorder, also formerly referred to as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental health condition characterised by dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels of a person. It is hence important to understand the steps one can take to manage its symptoms proactively. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition but can be effectively managed with the right treatment which may include medication and psychotherapy.