It’s important to stay positive whilst in the process of becoming well. Thoughts questioning when will I ever get well or will I ever get well are of no help whatsoever. However, they do pop up regularly and need to be addressed.
Bipolar is a life long disorder but it is manageable with professional help.
When it comes to managing bipolar disorder, it’s really important to develop coping strategies for use in everyday life. Don’t try to manage it on your own it’s just too hard. There are a lot of different strategies you can try that will help with the day-to-day management of your mood.
Monitor your mood using a chart or you could use an app. Here is a link to some Bipolar apps. I haven’t used one myself but I will take a look at what’s available.
Limit stress. Don’t over-commit yourself.
Take your time in making decisions. Ask others to help you. This is important to avoid making unhelpful decisions that may negatively on your life.
Build a good support network. Other people can be there when you need to talk about your more difficult moments as well as they have an outsider’s perspective on your moods.
Join a support network. It can be reassuring to hear from people who are going through similar experiences. You may have one locally or you could find one that suits you online.
Exercise is a proven way to help you manage mood. I have joined a local gym. I go three days a week for weight training or Aquaqerobics.
Take time to relax. Relaxation is effective in reducing stress.
Avoid drugs and alcohol. These can make your moods worse.
Take medications only as prescribed. Never make changes to medication without talking to your psychiatrist or GP.
Make a suicide Safety Plan. Prepare how to manage low moods and suicidal thoughts. I made one I found on Beyond Blue whilst I was in hospital. Here’s a link.
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/beyondnow-suicide-safety-planning
Make a wellbeing plan. Keep a record of your plans for how to manage sleep and routines, how to manage highs and lows, and details of contacts if you need help. Make this plan with your mental health professional and give a copy to family and friends.
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