Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition involving disturbances of thoughts, mood, and behavior. It is often characterized by alternating episodes of depression followed by intense energy, racing thoughts, and exaggerated behaviors. The help of a therapist is beneficial, and you can take steps yourself to manage the condition. Below are some important tips.

3 Ways to Manage Bipolar Disorder

1. Establish a Healthy Routine

The most important step is to establish a routine of healthy behaviors. For instance, set a time each day to take your medications, so you do not forget. Get plenty of sleep, to reduce the risk of mania and to give you the energy to cope with depression and anxiety. 

Regular exercise encourages the brain to produce and uptake mood-boosting chemicals. Finally, make time to connect socially with friends and family. These activities all help stabilize your mood.

2. Learn the Symptoms

Be aware of what to expect as a patient with bipolar disorder. Learn the symptoms of manic and depressive episodes so you recognize their onsets. Keep a log of your mood, thoughts, and behaviors. 

If you can identify an episode's beginnings, you may be able to ameliorate the effects. You may also be able to recognize a correlation between behaviors—such as diet or lack of sleep—and your mood swings. 

3. Seek Professional Help

Build a relationship with a qualified therapist, which can provide numerous beneficial results. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy helps you identify and reshape thoughts that contribute to negative emotions and lead to unproductive behaviors. 

Together, you and the therapist come up with a crisis plan full of action items you can engage when life feels upside down. This helps you regain control.

If you seek a therapist to help you manage your bipolar disorder, contact White Spruce Counseling in Rochester, NY. They serve patients throughout Monroe County and the surrounding areas. They offer mental health counseling of all types, specializing in PTSD, substance abuse, anger management, and domestic violence. They are known for their compassionate, ethical care and warm, comforting environment. Learn more about them on their website or call (585) 424-2436 to schedule a therapist appointment.