![]() Since it can be hard to get started, do what you can easily manage right now. The bottom line Exercise is proven to help stabilize mood and reduce the risk of future mood episodes. “ holds you accountable,” says Gardenswartz.īe sure to check with your doctor before you start any new exercise routine. Time-limited Decide when and for how long you’ll exercise.Īnother way to create an exercise routine, says Gardenswartz, is to have an exercise buddy, whether it’s a friend, a trainer, or even an in-person or online exercise class.Achievable and realistic Choose activities that fit well into your daily routine.For example, is exercise more fun if you’re outdoors or indoors? Is the activity muscle-building or fat-burning? Will you do it alone or with others? Meaningful Choose activities you enjoy.Specific Zero in on which activities you will do.The “SMART” way to do that, she says, is to be: “Instead of just saying you will exercise more, it’s more likely to happen if you say, ‘I plan to exercise three times a week for 20 minutes at a time,’” Carol explains. Activities like walking, jogging, biking, and dancing all count. What to do People with bipolar disorder should break a sweat for 30 minutes each day, three to five days a week, say experts at the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Why it’s important Exercise does wonders for people with bipolar disorder by stimulating the release of mood-stabilizing brain chemicals such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, Gardenswartz explains. Plan to Be Physically Active Most Days of the Week ![]() Surround yourself with people who you know care about you and want to help and you'll alleviate some stress and thus help prevent relapses of bipolar symptoms, according to the IBPF. The bottom line Life with bipolar disorder isn’t always easy. Organizations like the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) offer online support groups. Meeting regularly with others who know firsthand what you’re going through can make you feel less alone, and make it easier to address problems and find solutions quickly. Carol.Īlso, consider joining a support group for people with bipolar disorder. “Support can look different for different people,” notes Dr. Or maybe you’d like them to be more active in your treatment by checking in with you every day or helping you set up reminders for taking your medication. For example, ask them to learn more about bipolar disorder by reading articles and books. One very important tip: When friends and family offer to help, let them, and try to be specific about what you need. Foster openness by asking your loved ones to share how they feel, not just about your news, but about what’s happening in their lives, too. Share as much as is comfortable about your diagnosis, treatment plan, and how you’re feeling right now. You might start by telling friends and family how much you appreciate them and making it a point to stay in touch with phone calls, texts, and emails. ![]() What to do Deepen your bonds by reaching out to people you already trust and enjoy spending time with, suggests Emily Carol, PhD, the clinical director of the Support, Treatment, and Resilience (STAR) Program at McLean Hospital, a psychiatric hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts. People with whom to safely process emotions, struggles, and thoughts are necessary for anyone’s overall health, a study published in the journal Current Opinions in Psychiatry concluded. Why it’s important The support of family, friends, and peers is key to staying well with bipolar disorder, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). They may also ask you about any over-the-counter remedies or herbal or nutritional supplements you’re taking, as these could negatively interact with your bipolar medication, according to the International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF).īottom line Abrupt changes to your medications can have serious consequences, including new mood episodes. They’ll likely check that your medication isn’t interacting with any other prescription drugs. They may also change your dose or switch you to a different medication. If you’re experiencing negative side effects, reach out to your prescriber right away to check that you’re taking your medication correctly. What to do It’s simple: Don’t skip doses of your medication, decrease your dose, or add a dose without first talking to your doctor, Dr. Why it’s important Most people with bipolar disorder are prescribed medications to manage their condition - and failure to take those medications can trigger severe discomfort (withdrawal symptoms), as well as increase your risk of mood episodes, says Cara Gardenswartz, PhD, a clinical psychologist in private practice in Los Angeles and New York City. Take Your Meds as Prescribed - No Ifs, Ands, or Buts
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