Bipolar disorder--known also as manic depression--is a disorder of the brain causing changes in moods, energy levels and a person's ability to perform everyday activities, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. The Institute states that it affects approximately 5.7 million American adults each year, some of whom experience relief of symptoms with medication. For those who prefer the natural approach, a change in sleeping patterns or regular exercise may be as effective.
Monitor Moods
When the most obvious symptoms of bipolar present themselves, it is too late to stop the mood swing. For this reason, HelpGuide.org suggests monitoring changes in moods, sleeping patterns, thoughts and energy levels closely. Doing so helps patients intercept problems quickly before they turn into a full-blown manic or depressive episode. The easiest way to do this is to create a mood chart to record every thought, feeling and mood, the time it occurs and what triggers it. Over time, patients begin to see a pattern forming, thus allowing them the opportunity to avoid the triggers of their symptoms.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough rest is a vital aspect of treating bipolar disorder. Too few hours of sleep can cause an episode of mania, according to HelpGuide.org; therefore, it is essential to set a strict sleep schedule and adhere to it. Not only should patients go to bed and get up at the same time each day, they should also limit the amount of time spent napping through the day as it may interfere with their ability to sleep at night. Exercising or drinking caffeine prior to bed can also interfere with a patient's ability to sleep at night.
Build Positive Relationships
Building relationships with positive people discourages negative thoughts and behaviors from occurring. The best relationships can be found with supportive friends and family members, or with members of a bipolar support group. The more time spent with positive people, the less time a bipolar patient spends alone. This eliminates the problem of isolation, which often leads to feelings of loneliness; both of these cause bipolar disorder to worsen.
Incorporate Stress Relieving Techniques
Stress is a common trigger of both manic and depressive episodes in those with bipolar, according to HelpGuide.org. To help manage and control this illness, it is important to learn stress-relieving techniques.
Some of the most popular include meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises. Not every technique is right for every person, thus it may take time to find the right stress-relieving method.
In addition to these techniques, those with bipolar need to make leisure time for themselves a priority. This can include watching a funny movie, playing a favorite sport or reading a good book; whatever the person finds enjoyable. Making time for yourself is an essential part of emotional and mental health.
Take Care of Your Body
What goes into the body plays an essential role in managing bipolar disorder. The substances the body consumes have a large impact on bipolar symptoms, according to HelpGuide.org.
A healthy diet, which includes fruits, vegetables and whole-grains should be eaten for the best mood possible. A diet high in fat and high-sugar carbohydrates result in mood crashes--patients need to avoid these.
Omega-3s, a fish oil found in cold water fish such as salmon and halibut, along with foods like flaxseed, pumpkin seeds and walnuts, help decrease mood swings common in bipolar patients, reports to HelpGuide.org.
Finally, drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy and amphetamines can cause episodes of mania, while alcohol and tranquilizers commonly cause depression.
