Bipolar disorder was formerly known as manic-depressive illness. It involves the exhibition of extreme mood swings that ranges from mania to depression. The disorder is second to major depression in causing worldwide mortality with 15% risk of committing complete suicide. Men are high risk for suicide especially if there is history of suicide attempts and alcohol abuse.
The manic phase of bipolar disorder is manifested with euphoria, grandiosity, energetic attitude, sleeplessness, poor judgement and rapid thought, speech and actions. The depress phase of bipolar disorder is the same as with major depression. This is the reason why those with bipolar are not diagnosed accurately especially is they are on the depress phase of the disorder. If there is a manic episode, then that is the time the condition is said to be bipolar.
The cause of the disorder is unknown though there are claims that it is due to stress, hormonal imbalance (cortisol) or acquisition of altered genes. Whatever the reason is, this disorder affects greatly those who have it especially the family members who care for the person with bipolar.
Coping with bipolar disorder is hard and exhausting thus it is advantageous to know the different ways on how to cope with it. Below are some ideas on coping with bipolar disorder:
Those who have Bipolar:
As much as possible, know everything about the condition
Eat foods high in calories to combat energy losses during manic phase
Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep triggers bipolar symptoms
Have any mental health professional assess your condition and recommend required treatments
Take all medications faithfully. Treatment actually involve lifetime intake of medications.
Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs
Join a support group and know how they cope with the disorder
Think positive always
Note down the triggering factors for manic or depressive symptoms and avoid it
Have someone accompany you during your battle with bipolar. Avoid instances that you are alone especially if you are depressed.
FAMILY MEMEBERS WITH A BIPOLAR PATIENT:
As much as possible, know everything about the condition
Have courage, compassion and understanding because those with bipolar disorder sometimes say things that they do not mean and do things that they do not want. These actions are brought about by their distorted mind so it is not them doing it but their condition. Do not take it personally.
Have patience because bipolar patients do not respond quickly to treatment. Changes in the behavior may take time.
Take time to rest to avoid burn out.
Talk to a counsellor if you find the burden to hard in order to know the things that you can do.
These are some ideas on coping with bipolar disorder. Try to follow these in order to deal with the condition with ease.
