Around 6 million adults in the US have bipolar disorder, a condition that affects their mood, energy levels, daily activities, and overall functioning. The disorder can cause manic episodes, which involve heightened feelings of excitement, irritability, or energy, and depressive episodes, which can cause intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or disinterest. If you have bipolar disorder, Sam Kolander, MD, New York director of clinical strategy at Rappore, provides the right treatment to help you live a happy and fulfilling life.

Here are tips to help you cope with bipolar disorder;

Keep up with your therapy and medication schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to managing bipolar disorder. Maintaining your therapy and medication schedule is important to ensure you receive the right treatment and support. Work with your healthcare provider to find a medication that works for you and stick to the recommended dosage and frequency. Attend therapy sessions regularly to work through any emotional or psychological issues contributing to your bipolar disorder. Staying consistent with your treatment plan will help you manage your symptoms and prevent relapses.

Commit to a routine

If you have bipolar disorder,  establish a schedule to stabilize your mood. You need a daily schedule that includes regular sleeping hours, meal times, and exercise.

When you have bipolar disorder, it is essential to remember that certain triggers can throw off your routine. For example, sleeping late, missing meals, or neglecting exercise can worsen symptoms. To avoid these triggers, set specific goals and stick to them. Create a list of tasks you need to accomplish each day, and try to do them simultaneously every day. As a result, you will be less likely to miss important appointments, forget medication, or engage in impulsive behavior.

Join a support group

Finding a support group can be a great way to connect with others who understand what you are going through. Support groups provide a safe space to share experiences, offer advice, and receive emotional support. They can also be a source of motivation and encouragement when you are feeling down. Look for local support groups in your community or online support groups that cater to people with bipolar disorder. Talking with others with similar experiences can help you feel less alone and provide a sense of validation.

Manage stress

Stressful events can trigger manic or depressive episodes, so develop coping mechanisms that help you healthily deal with stress. Some effective stress-management techniques include exercise, meditation, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques.

 Also, it is vital to recognize your triggers and avoid them as much as possible. If you know that certain situations or people make you feel stressed, limit your exposure to them. If you can’t avoid them entirely, find ways to cope with the stress they cause.

Avoid alcohol and drugs

Avoiding alcohol and drugs if you have bipolar disorder. Substance abuse can worsen symptoms and make it more difficult to manage the disorder. In fact, substance abuse is a major risk factor for suicide among people with bipolar disorder.

If you are struggling with substance abuse, please seek help. There are many resources available, including support groups, counseling, and medication-assisted treatment.

Call Rappore to book your appointment for bipolar disorder treatment.