Living with bipolar disorder might be difficult as an individual affected by it goes via excessive shifts in temper. One can discover themselves in both of the 2 phases – being too completely happy or too withdrawn. An individual throughout maniac episodes could also be over-excited about life, bursting with vitality, joyful, doing new issues – at instances irrational, speaking an excessive amount of and behaving impulsively. The similar individual in the course of the despair section, might withdraw from joyful actions, isolate self, be indecisive, undergo from low vitality and lose sleep. In between these two extremes, there are phases when their temper may very well be completely regular. (Also learn | Bipolar disorder: Warning symptoms you should know; types, causes, treatment)

It is essential to make applicable life-style modifications when affected by bipolar dysfunction to assist handle moods. Mania can result in poor judgment, danger taking behaviour and disinhibition which can make an individual liable to accidents or monetary loss. On the opposite hand, despair could make one suicidal and lonely.

“Patients residing with bipolar dysfunction will reply to life-style modifications in any other case. What works for one individual will not be efficient for one more. It is significant for a person to search out what works greatest for them. It can be essential to take medication exactly as talked about within the prescription. An individual mustn’t cease taking medication if they begin feeling more healthy. This is only a signal that the remedy is working effectively for them, says Dr Dhruv Zutshi, Senior Consultant, Neurology, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj.

Symptoms of mania and despair in bipolar dysfunction

Bipolar dysfunction is a psychological well being ailment characterised by vital alterations in temper that entails excessive highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (despair). The depressive episodes are characterised by persistent, pervasive disappointment of temper together with an absence of curiosity or pleasure in ordinary actions. On the opposite hand, manic or hypomanic episodes are characterised by extreme cheerfulness or uncharacteristic irritability and elevated vitality. These temper modifications might impression a person’s sleeping habits, vitality ranges, each day actions, judgment, behaviour, and cognitive skills, says Dr Sonali Bali, Consultant – Psychiatrist, Paras Health, Gurugram.

What to do throughout mania and despair

“Before applying lifestyle changes for managing bipolar disorder, it’s important to understand an individual’s personality, severity, and exact type of the disorder and their psycho-social environment. In general, proper activity scheduling (record of daily activity as per specific time slot) is required to maintain emotional regulation. If a person is having depressive disorder, then there should be activities to activate their physical energy and brain chemicals like walking, cycling, team play activities, etc. It’s advisable to avoid any aloof activity during this phase. If a person is having a manic phase, then grounding should be the main goal in lifestyle changes for which meditation, taking care of plants, gratitude journaling, etc can be useful,” Dr Shweta Sharma, Clinical Psychologist & Founder, Mansa Global Foundation for Mental Health.

“Taking correct sleep is required (7-8 hours) in each states. Maintaining common Psychotherapy periods is a should. Learning social expertise can be essential of their life-style. Regularly journaling about your small achievements earlier than sleeping on day-to-day foundation. Keep a examine in your triggers and attain out for assist whereas doing all this. There is one essential level that must be in thoughts, meditation or yoga just isn’t the most effective recommendation for depressive episodes however useful for the manic section, provides Dr Sharma.

Lifestyle modifications for bipolar dysfunction

1. Maintain an everyday sleep schedule

“Good and enough sleep is crucial for individuals with bipolar disorder. Lack of sleep or irregular sleep patterns can trigger manic or depressive episodes. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, aiming for seven to eight hours of sleep per night,” says Dr Jyoti Kapoor, Founder-Director and Senior Psychiatrist, Manasthali.

2. Regular train

“Exercise is known to have many mental health benefits, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Regular physical activity can also help manage mood swings and improve overall well-being,” says Dr Kapoor.

3. Balanced food plan

“A balanced diet can help stabilise mood and improve overall health. Focus on eating nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit or avoid processed and sugary foods,” says Dr Bali.

4. Manage stress

“Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can help reduce stress and anxiety,” says Dr Malasa Gujjar, Consulting Physiologist, Jindal Naturecure Institute, Bangalore.

5. Avoid medicine and alcohol

“Substance use can interfere with bipolar disorder treatment and increase the risk of relapse. Avoiding drugs and alcohol can help stabilize mood and reduce the risk of manic or depressive episodes,” says Dr Kapoor.

6. Keep a temper journal

“Keeping a journal can help you track your mood swings, identify triggers, and monitor the effectiveness of your treatment plan. Share your mood journal with your mental health provider,” says Dr Bali.

7. Structured timetable

“People with bipolar disorder tend to forget what they were doing or what is next in their schedule. Keep a track in your diary or mobile as reminder,” says Dr Zutshi.

8. Participate in your remedy

“Learn about your illness, clarify your doubts from your doctor, take the prescribed medication and meet your psychiatrist regularly,” says Dr Bali.

9. Learn about your private triggers

“There are some instances which will be noticed by you or your family member or friends. It is important to learn about them and take necessary action,” says Dr Zutshi.

10. Take help

“Bipolar disorder can be a challenging condition to manage alone. Take support from friends, family, or a mental health professional. Joining a support group can also be helpful in connecting with others who are going through similar experiences,” says Dr Kapoor.

“Regular therapy sessions can provide support and help individuals and their caretakers learn coping skills to manage bipolar disorder symptoms,” says Dr Gujjar.