Mood swings are a hallmark of bipolar disorder. Bipolar mood swings can be sudden or gradual and can occur in any of the four phases of the disease – mania, depression, hypomania, or euthymia. The severity of your bipolar mood swings will depend on where you are in the cycle and when they happen.
A manic episode can disrupt your life and relationships with others, while a depressive episode can cause significant emotional pain if left untreated. That’s why opting for bipolar treatment shouldn’t be contemplated. Here are five strategies proven to help people cope with bipolar mood swings.
1. Identify Your Triggers
One of the best ways to cope with bipolar mood swings is to identify what triggers them so you can avoid those situations and manage them when they arise. The triggers and signs will vary from person to person. For some people, certain situations or environments may trigger a manic episode or make their mood swings worse. Others may find that certain drugs (or over-the-counter medications) worsen their condition.
2. Go for Treatment
If you’re unsure if you have bipolar disorder, ask your doctor or other health care provider about getting tested. If they agree that you should get treatment, then you should go ahead and do it. Opt-in for bipolar treatment once you are diagnosed. This is perhaps the best strategy to cope with bipolar mood swings. A good treatment plan factors in the possibility of encountering bipolar mood swings and helps you to stay with your head above water. You may have to be on mood stabilizers and other medications to keep you in good shape.
3. Apply Stress Management Techniques
To cope with bipolar mood swings, you should stay physically active daily. Some stress management techniques include meditation, exercise, and deep breathing exercises. You can limit your workout to frequent walks and yoga. These stress management techniques can help you improve your mood.
4. Join a Support Group
When dealing with bipolar swings, it’s important to let people who have been there before know what you’re experiencing. Support groups are a great way to connect with others who understand what you’re going through and can help keep your spirits up when things get rough. You can learn from others who have been through similar situations and see how they’ve handled them successfully.
5. Stay Committed to a Routine
Staying busy is one of the best ways to manage anxiety and stress. Schedule time each day for things like exercise or taking care of yourself. Also, be sure to have a routine that you live by. This way, you know exactly what to do when those feelings hit.
Conclusion
Bipolar mood swings can be disruptive. With its effects imprinted on almost all aspects of life, it is wise to get treated on time. If you don’t get help, your symptoms will continue to worsen until they become difficult to manage. With the bipolar treatment and coping strategies highlighted in this article, you should be able to handle your bipolar mood swings better.
