By Stephen Propst
Managing bipolar is more than doctor and therapy appointments and medications. Lifestyle practices—sleeping soundly, eating nutritiously, and exercising regularly — are also critical.
Maintaining Mood with Bipolar
Managing a mood disorder is an ongoing undertaking. Contrary to what some people think, you don’t just “get over it.” How you see the situation is key.
Adopting the right perspective takes time, so be patient. Searching for quick fixes only makes matters worse. Let’s look at three important principles to put into practice—over time, not overnight!
#1 Accepting What I’m Facing
For years, I fought a losing battle with bipolar. Instead of learning to embrace it, I was searching for a miracle cure. That led to dealing with major missteps and misgivings, spinning my wheels and getting nowhere.
I ultimately recognized that I had to deal with my situation head-on and focus on a realistic solution. My doctor remembers me saying that I was tired of going in circles over my cycles—which I had done for a decade! I had to stop trying to defeat the diagnosis and start living with it.
By “living with bipolar,” I mean accepting that I have to manage it and make it part of my regular routine. I’ve learned I can have a fulfilling life while remaining vigilant about my vulnerabilities, like too much stress or too little sleep. I can’t grow complacent, and neither should you.
#2 Aligning with the Right Resources
For years, I tried to go it alone. That was a disaster! I eventually realized that I had so much to learn—and still do!
Support groups—whether online or in-person—are a good first step to building your network. These days, I am fortunate to be able to rely on the advice and counsel of people who have specific expertise, the support of those who care, and the assistance of others who can lend a hand. Interestingly, I often gain the most from the least likely of candidates; never overlook anyone who could teach you something valuable.
Also, I’m so grateful for people who are willing to step in when I’m not up for something. When I’m feeling down and a friend runs an errand for me, that means so much. When I have to back out of an obligation, it’s comforting and reassuring when someone says, “I understand.”
#3 Adopting a Plan of Action
After no longer being in denial about my diagnosis or trying to go it alone, I was in a better position to take the next step: finding a system to help identify resources and implement strategies to help me stay well. Putting such a plan into place is pivotal.
Managing bipolar is much more than doctor and therapy appointments and medications, although these are important components.
A comprehensive approach—sleeping soundly, eating nutritiously, and exercising regularly—is critical. Practicing mindfulness, taming triggers, and being prayerful can all help. The idea is to take care of yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually … in other words, comprehensively.
Yes, it’s a lot, but I find my health and well-being are worth it. Don’t you?
Every Sunday, I make a list of what I want to accomplish during the upcoming week—from working on an article to going to the gym. I set both short- and long-term goals—like losing “x” pounds within “y” months or completing a particular project by a specific date. For me, putting everything in writing increases the likelihood of achieving my objectives.
A Positive Path Forward
Are you willing to consider these concepts and transform your thinking? Doing so has enabled me to pursue a more positive path forward, maintain a healthier mindset, and experience a more meaningful life.
Staying on top of bipolar takes unbelievable time and effort. But as you start to acknowledge its reality and respond appropriately to how it impacts your life, you stop allowing it to define your life. That’s perhaps the most powerful principle of all!
Used by permission.