Hi, how are you doing today? I hope you’re having a great day.
You know I talk a lot about being in control of your bipolar disorder. That’s because if you don’t,
the bipolar disorder will be in control of you. So how do you take control? By doing the things you need to do to be stable.
Although you are not the only one with bipolar disorder, you are the only one who can take care of your own disorder. It’s different for different people.
But there are some things that people with bipolar disorder should have in common:
1. Take your medication. If there are any problems with your medication, you
need to report it to your doctor so they can help you.
2. Eat a healthy diet. There are some foods that are bad for people in general,
much less people who have bipolar disorder. For example, caffeine (even in chocolate)
can be bad for you.
3. Live a healthy lifestyle. You can’t smoke, drink, and/or take drugs if you
want to get better. Even nicotine can possibly affect your stability. And
substance abuse is a problem in itself (and can also have bad consequences
for your bipolar medication).
4. Stick to a good sleep schedule. You should get at least 8 hours of uninterrupted
sleep every night, and go to bed at the same time and rise at the same time every
day.Your body clock needs to be stable in order for you to be stable.
5. Go to all your appointments. Not everyone with bipolar disorder is on the same
treatment plan, but each should have at least a doctor and therapist. You may
have a psychiatrist as well, who manages your bipolar medications. Missing
appointments can become a very bad habit, and hurt you in the long run.
6. Have a strong support system. Not everyone has the same people in their
support system, as each person decides for themselves, but they should all
have a support system. You could have your supporter, friends, family,
co-workers, your clergy person, your pharmacist, and others to help you.
In addition to these common things, there are other things that some people
with bipolar disorder do to maintain control over the disorder.
1. Keep a mood chart or diary. Recording your moods on a daily basis can be
very beneficial for you if you have bipolar disorder. You can see at a glance any
patterns, such as a prolonged depression, that can indicate that you might be
going into an episode, and you can avoid it.
2. Have a good social life. You don’t need to hide just because you have bipolar
disorder. And you shouldn’t be alone a lot of the time, because isolation is one
of the biggest triggers to a bipolar episode. Having friends and a “normal” social
life is good for your self-esteem as well.
3. Stay close to family. Many people with bipolar disorder shy away from their
family, or have offended them when they were in an episode. It’s important to
maintain these relationships, so they can be there for you.
4. Be productive. You may no longer work outside the house, you may even
be on disability, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t be productive with your
time. Some people with bipolar disorder start their own home business, while
others volunteer their time to a worthy cause. Being idle and/or bored can lead
to a bipolar episode.
So who is in control? If you do these things, chances are that YOU will be in control of your bipolar disorder. If you aren’t doing these things, or not doing them consistently, your stability is in jeopardy, as your bipolar disorder has control over you.
Well, I have to go!
Your Friend,
Dave
Post responses below
Dave, with reference to no.3 in your email, my boyfriend has never done drugs and has quit drinking a couple of months ago. He has been much better since and fairly stable. Smoking is the only addiction he ever had. He has tried many times and many methods to quit, so far unsuccessfully. His doctor has the sense not to prescribe Chantix because of its bad reputation in connection with bipolar. His psych actually advised him to take it easy and not force himself to quit smoking if it causes too much stress. He has managed to cut down on the cigs considerably, which is a step in the right direction.
A few of your “cautious” behaviors are ones that I’ve done for years. I continue to smoke (tried quitting last fall; was unsuccessful); I drink about 4 half-cups of coffee every day; I take my meds religiously, and see my psychiatrist and go to group therapy weekly; however, my sleep patterns vary; although I try going to bed at 9, my meds give me a “rush” for an hour, so I fill it by having a snack and reading. So far, none of the so-called “bad” behaviors have thrown me into a manic episode. My last hospitalization was in 1977, though I’ve had mini-episodes that were treated on an out-patient basis. But – basically (if the bipolar don’t getcha), I’m fairly stable on my Treatment Plan.
BIG HUGS to all bipolar survivor and those who love us. May God bless you real good. I continue to pray for my country.
Hello. My name is Lynn, and I’m a recovering alcoholic. I also live w/Bipolar II Depression, one day @ a time. If I were not sober, I would not likely be taking good care of my bipolar illness, or I might not even CARE if I do, or not. IMO, I need to do something for my sobriety EVERY DAY, and I need to do something for my mental health recovery,EVERY DAY. I am grateful to say that I’ve been ‘stable’ now for abt. 1 1/2-2 yrs. I’m now on lo thyroid supplements, and this too, helps my stability. I believe I’m on the ‘right [combo. of] medications now, and keep my appts. to the best of my ability. I seek ‘outside help’ as well, to ‘keep a loose lid on the teapot.’ Thank you for allowing me to share.
Hi, Dave,
I just wanted you to know that after an agonizing trip that has lasted almost ten years, I FINALLY got approved for my disability payments. Thanks to you and your team for all that you do and the wonderful service you provide. Many of your daily columns have helped me. Just wanted to let you know that you are affecting peoples’ lives in a good way out here. Thanks again.