A Vital Part of Successfully Managing Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder can feel like a roller coaster in the dark. You don’t know when the turns or drops are coming. You don’t know when you’ll be flipped upside-down. And once you do, it’s too late. You’re in a manic episode, doing things you’ll regret. You’re in a depressive episode, too exhausted to get out of bed. You feel like you’re being whipped around by an erratic condition, and you have zero control. You’re simply along for the ride. Which is why self-awareness is so vital. Self-awareness is essential to successfully managing bipolar disorder—and not feeling like you’re plunging headfirst into an abyss. You can learn how your bipolar disorder manifests and functions. You can identify your personal triggers and red flags that signal an episode coming on. You can begin understanding how certain behaviors, habits, relationships, stressors may be exacerbating the condition. And you can intervene. You can find coping strategies that work best for you. You can create a preventative plan. While there are commonalities among people with bipolar disorder, your illness is as unique as you are. “People living with bipolar disorder experience their own unique set of symptoms and mood fluctuations,” said Colleen King, LMFT, a psychotherapist, artist, and nature lover living with bipolar disorder and passionate about helping others with mood disorders live a full and joyful life. And, thankfully, as you develop a better, deeper understanding of your bi...
Source: Psych Central - Category: Psychiatry Authors: Tags: Bipolar Disorders General Healthy Living Self-Help Stress Bipolar Disorder bipolar signs and symptoms Depressive Episode Hypomanic Episode managing bipolar disorder Mood Chart Mood Disorder Self Awareness treating bipolar disor Source Type: news