Bipolar disorder, or manic depression. is a chronic illness that needs to be managed. According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, it is a severe condition and a brain disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy and activity levels and can sometimes affect the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. If you have manic depression, it is important to realize that many people with this illness can lead a normal and productive life despite this illness. Managing manic depression often includes using a variety of different approaches.
Take Your Medications
Your doctor or psychiatrist might prescribe different medications for manic depression, including mood-stabilizing medications, antipsychotic drugs and antidepressants. You should be aware of medication side effects and what to report to your doctor. Your doctor might need to adjust these medications to find the appropriate treatment that works best for you. It is important to take your medications as directed and communicate with your doctor if you are having side effects or if the medication is not controlling your symptoms appropriately.
Take Advantage of Psychotherapy
Dealing with extreme mood shifts is difficult to do on your own. Many people with manic depression benefit from psychotherapy. Your psychiatrist or psychologist working with your physician may use the progress in psychotherapy as a way to monitor symptoms and make sure the medications you are taking are appropriate. Talking to a professional can help change harmful thought patterns and behaviors and help manage manic episodes. It can also be useful in identifying and recognizing signs of relapse.
Keep Track of Your Mood
Monitoring symptoms and your mood by using a chart or journal is an effective way of tracking your progression and identifying whether your current treatment modalities are working. Tracking your mood can help you identify changes and discuss those with your doctor. This may sometimes lead to a necessary medication change or an increase in psychotherapy. Understanding the signs of mania and depression are important so you can proactively seek help before symptoms become extreme.
Get Enough Sleep
When you suffer from manic depression, it is important for you to get enough sleep and maintain a regular sleep schedule. Not having enough sleep can negatively affect your mood and state of mind, and it may trigger a "manic" episode. Having a regular routine helps decrease stress. Stress can increase the chances for a depressive or manic episode.
Know Where to Go for Help
It is important to turn to the people in your life for help when you need it. Educate your close friends and family about your illness so they can help you recognize when you need professional help. Let them know what they can do to support you and how they can help you stay in treatment. If you are in a crisis or feel suicidal, call 911 or going to a local emergency room immediately.
