Coping with bipolar disorder can be challenging. Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Bipolar disorder treatment is available through a trained licensed professional counselor and psychiatric treatment.
A psychiatrist will provide medication for bipolar disorders such as mood stabilizer medication however, mental health counseling is essential for dealing with the behaviors of bipolar disorder. The most effective treatment for bipolar disorder is a combination of professional mental health counseling and psychiatric medication. Once you have begun therapy for bipolar disorder life does become manageable.
Expert Tips to Cope with Bipolar Disorder
Here are some strategies that can help:
- Learn about bipolar disorder. Education about your condition can empower you and motivate you to stick to your treatment plan and recognize mood changes. Help educate your family and friends about what you’re going through.
- Stay focused on your goals. Learning to manage bipolar disorder can take time. Stay motivated by keeping your goals in mind and reminding yourself that you can work to repair damaged relationships and other problems caused by your mood swings.
- Join a support group. Support groups for people with bipolar disorder can help you connect to others facing similar challenges and share experiences.
- Find healthy outlets. Explore healthy ways to channel your energy, such as hobbies, exercise, and recreational activities.
- Learn ways to relax and manage stress. Yoga, tai chi, massage, meditation, or other relaxation techniques can be helpful.
Remember, bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness, there is not a permanent cure for bipolar disorder. However, long-term, ongoing treatment can help control symptoms and enable you to live a healthy life. To get started with mental health counseling contact www.sobair.com to speak to a licensed professional mental health counselor.