It can be challenging to live with a lifelong mood disorder like bipolar disorder. Mood changes — from mania (highs) to depression (lows) to normal moods, as well as other bipolar disorder symptoms — can strain your relationships, affect your school or job performance, and make it difficult to enjoy life. 

Inspire’s mental health community offers support and advice

With proper treatments for bipolar disorder, many people lead fulfilled, productive lives. But sometimes, living with bipolar disorder can start to feel overwhelming. When that happens, you can refer to this advice and words of support from Mental Health America’s mental health support group and discussion community on Inspire.

Know which type of bipolar disorder you have

There are four different types of bipolar disorder with symptoms varying by type. Your psychiatrist can diagnose the type of bipolar disorder you have. Knowing the disorder type can help you better understand your symptoms and become more aware of triggers and mood changes. This information is also critical to ensuring you’re following the most effective treatment plan. 

From the community:“That's usually from a severe high (Mania) - will sometimes drop you too low and your body can't keep up, so it will throw you into a depression. It could be that you're a Rapid Cycler if it happens often enough. You may want to work with a psychiatrist - they can properly diagnose you and assist with medications to level that out a lot more. Sometimes recognizing the mania and focusing on calming back down to "normal" is helpful. The psychiatrist can assist you with tools on how to do that and/or refer you to a therapist that specializes in that to assist. But, it can be "normal" for Bipolar people. If you're a Bipolar 2 rapid cycler, you could be switching episodes to a Bipolar 1 rapid cycler. Or just switching from Bipolar 2 to 1 (or visa versa). Bipolar 2 will have smaller manic episodes that are less severe, so your depression will hit much harder and be much lower.”– Inspire member

Stick to a routine

One study found that people with bipolar disorder who stuck to daily routines were less likely to cycle between mania and depression than those who only took medications. These findings indicate how important it is to follow a regular sleep schedule, not skip meals, and look after your physical and mental health.

From the community:“I also have bipolar disorder. It is difficult for us and also difficult for those around us. They cannot understand, but they do love you... I was advised that this disorder is managed better when we stick to a routine. Regular hours of sleep. Eating well and regularly. Not making major changes without thinking things through. The disruptions in our lives (even positive ones) can trigger manic or depressive episodes…” – Inspire member

Watch for triggers 

Sleep disturbances, stress, trauma, and life changes like a divorce or move can bring on manic or depressive episodes. Being aware of your triggers, and having strategies in place like meditation or reaching out to your support network, are key to keeping the disorder under control. 

From the community: “When you're depressed - think of ways to boost your "happy feelings". Do you enjoy hiking, making things, hanging out with friends, etc? When you're depressed - do something you enjoy. Even if you don't want to. Sometimes it's a way to trigger part of your brain to go back on track to feelings of normalcy... Once you get back to your "normal", watch for triggers that will send you manic or depressed. Use a journal to write down how you feel and what you're doing that day. Sometimes that will help you find out a "trend" in your mental state when it changes. Then you can avoid or learn to cope better with your triggers. Sometimes diet changes, lack of sleep, alcohol, tobacco and financial issues will trigger people.”– Inspire member

Stay safe

As many as half of people with bipolar disorder will attempt suicide at some point. You’re more likely to have suicidal thoughts during a depressive episode. When you’re feeling well, you, your loved ones, and a therapist can work together to create a safety plan that ensures you’ll have the help and support you need during a time of crisis. You can also call the 9-8-8 Lifeline, which provides free, confidential help any time of the day or night. 

From the community:“It’s been awhile since I’ve had a mixed. I always tried to find something distracting to do, and fun if I could manage that also. Whenever I even began to feel unsafe I always got in touch with my psychiatrist or therapist as soon as possible. Many times I have also called a crisis line. Usually to have an opinion on what steps I might make at the time, like going to crisis center, or even a hospital. Whatever it took for me to feel safe. Always talked to my psychiatrist as well about whether they wanted to temporarily increase, add, or even change a medication. Those are my suggestions. Hope they help. Bottom line, keep yourself safe.”– Inspire member

Seek mental health support

Most people with bipolar disorder see significant improvements in symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life when they combine medications with talk therapy (psychotherapy). It’s important to find a therapist who has experience helping people who have bipolar disorder. You may also benefit from joining an in-person or online support group.

From the community: “Have you ever tried therapy? Therapists can educate us on our emotions and why we feel the way we do which can help us learn how to identify how to communicate our feelings with others. Once you can better communicate how you feel with others, then others will be able to better help you progress in your life and overcome struggles. I really think therapy would help you or maybe even teaching yourself more about bipolar disorder. I have bipolar 2 and once I identified my feelings and why I am feeling that way, it was easier for me to communicate better with others instead of causing conflict.” – Inspire member

From the community:“Hi. I’ve been living with bipolar for 5 ish years now. You can get better, you just need to find the right medication combo and build a support system. I am here for you if you would like to talk.”– Inspire member

Sources

• Consistent routines may ease bipolar disorder. American Psychological Association. February 2008.

• Bipolar disorder: Benefits and difficulties of routines. International Bipolar Foundation. 

• Ponte K. Bipolar depression: The lows we don’t talk about enough. National Alliance on Mental Illness. September 22, 2021.

• Bipolar disorder triggers. The Recovery Village. May 2022.

Disclaimer

Member comments are lightly edited for length and to remove identifying information but are otherwise reproduced as they appear in the community as part of public posts.

This content is for general informational purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of any organization or individual. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.