Bipolar disorder is a mental health illness classified as a mood disorder. A person with bipolar disorder experiences manic or hypomanic episodes along with bouts of depression. Bipolar disorder can be a severe and debilitating disorder if not taken seriously and treated inappropriately. The effectiveness of psychotherapy and medication should not be taken for granted, as it has been demonstrated over time. While natural treatments can be effective at relieving the symptoms of bipolar disorder, they should generally be used in combination with psychotherapy and medication. A person using natural treatment options for bipolar disorder should not do so without oversight from her mental health professional.
Step 1
Add healthy foods to your diet. According to the MayoClinic.com, in places where people survive on diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids there are much lower rates of bipolar disorder; omega-3 seems to improve brain functioning and reduce depression. Eat foods that are rich in omega-3 such as flax seed, salmon and walnuts. Incorporate healthy snacks into your day, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. This will help maintain your blood sugar and keep it from dipping and negatively affecting your mood.
Step 2
Make healthy changes to your lifestyle. Regular sleep patterns and a commitment to an exercise routine will help keep your symptoms of bipolar disorder at bay, notes the MayoClinic.com. Engage in physical activity at least five days out of each week for 30 minutes each day. Maintain a consistent sleep/wake cycle. This will help you get the proper amounts of sleep every night and not experience sleep deprivation, which can trigger manic episodes.
Step 3
Avoid drugs, alcohol and caffeine. HelpGuide.org reports that many illicit drugs that are stimulants, as well as caffeine, can trigger episodes of mania and alcohol can cause an onset of depression even when only consumed socially.
Step 4
Reduce the amount of stress in your life. According to HelpGuide.org, stress can induce bouts of either mania or depression in a person who suffers from bipolar disorder. Set limits for yourself. Avoid taking on more than you can handle. Remove stressful relationships or activities from your life. Use relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga and meditation, to help you relax in the moment and throughout the day, suggests HelpGuide.org. Engage in activities each day that you enjoy, such as reading a book, talking to a friend or going out to eat.
Step 5
Ask those people close to you for their support. Having a group of people who are your support system will give you trusted people to turn to when you need them. Inform them about your bipolar disorder. Tell them how you would like them to support you. Offer your gratitude for their support in advance.
