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Those who are diagnosed with bipolar illness need to practice a great deal of self-care to manage their disorder. Bipolar illness isn’t a disease that you can treat on your own, and you need to have the care of a qualified physician. However, there are things that those suffering from bipolar illness can do for themselves that will make treatment smoother and easier. First, always take your medications! Even if you are feeling well, resist the temptation to skip your medications. If you stop, signs and symptoms of bipolar illness may recur.
In addition, pay attention to warning signs. If you or your friends understand the pattern you usually exhibit in your moods, it is easier to notice when something goes wrong. Call your doctor if you feel you are having an episode, or may be on the verge of entering into a manic or depressive state. Often, those with the disorder have to change doses of medications to keep an even balance. These dosage changes will likely go on throughout your life.If you have bipolar illness, you should also be careful to avoid drugs and alcohol. Drugs, especially stimulants including diet drugs, and alcohol may be what triggers an episode in bipolar patients. Check with your doctor before you take any other medications, and tell all your doctors of your disorder before they prescribe any drugs to treat other health issues. Those with bipolar illness, and their family and friends, also have to develop strong coping mechanisms to handle the course of the disease. While coping with bipolar illness can be difficult, there are many support groups that can help. These support groups can be a valuable part of a wider network of stable social connections that can keep a bipolar patient steady in his or her mood. Various support groups bring together people, family and friends who are coping with any of a wide variety of physical or mental health problems. Support groups for bipolar disorder provide a setting in which people can share their common problems and provide ongoing support to one another. You can start by asking your bipolar illness doctor for references to groups in your area. In addition, the local health department, public library, telephone book and the Internet also may be good sources to locate a support group in your area. |
