Characterized by prolonged shifts in mood, manic episodes, and depression, living with bipolar disorder can often feel like you must always expect the unexpected. But while this mood disorder can have a considerable impact on the way you think and act, seeking professional help and following a treatment plan can help keep symptoms under control. If you or someone you love is affected by this illness, here are a few tips to achieve balance with bipolar disorder.

Strategies to Improve Daily Living With Bipolar Disorder

1. Follow a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Not getting a full night’s sleep or sleeping too much can disrupt certain processes in the body and potentially trigger a manic or depressive episode. Many living with bipolar disorder find sticking to a structured sleep schedule can provide immense peace of mind and stability.

2. Take Medications as Directed

Medications are an important part of bipolar disorder treatment. But once symptoms go away, many may feel that taking the medication isn’t necessary. To ensure you maintain better control over your condition, continue to follow medication instructions as directed by your psychiatry provider.

3. Prioritize Relaxation

Since stress is known to trigger mood disorder symptoms, avoiding and mitigating tension is crucial. For many, yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises are all sound strategies to achieve relaxation. Exercising regularly and eating a nutritious diet will also help lower stress levels.  

4. Steer Clear of Certain Substances

Smoking cigarettes and drinking caffeinated beverages may contribute to the onset of symptoms—especially when done in excess. As such, eliminating or minimizing these habits can help individuals avoid both manic and depressive episodes. It’s also critical to keep alcohol out of your system, as these substances may not only trigger symptoms but also interact negatively with prescribed medications.

5.  Talk to a Professional

While it’s important to manage your mood disorder medications with a trusted psychiatrist, it’s also smart to maintain a relationship with a trusted counselor. Through talk therapy, your provider will help identify issues that may complicate your treatment and discuss solutions that help you resolve problems in a safe and logical fashion.

Knowing that life with bipolar disorder can be overwhelming at times, Fairbanks Psychiatric & Neurological Clinic APC offers comprehensive mental health services to support treatments. Staffed by qualified psychiatry professionals, this clinic can diagnose your condition and provide targeted prescription therapy for mood disorders. Visit this clinic online to learn more about their resources or call (907) 452-1739 to start the screening process at their Fairbanks, AK, location. Most private insurances are accepted, they do not take Medicaid/Medicare for mental health appointments.