Bipolar disorder is a long-term mental condition that produces mood swings. These feelings oscillate between happy, energised highs (mania) and sad, tired lows (depression).
It might be tough to cope with a depressive episode associated with Bipolar Disorder. Depression symptoms might cause you to lose motivation for things you normally love, making it difficult to get through each day. However, there are Bipolar Disorder treatment that can help you combat detrimental consequences of your depressive episode.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
It’s easy to fall into poor habits when you’re going through depression.
Even though you’re hungry, you could not feel like eating, or you might eat until you’re full.
The same may be said for sleeping. You’re more prone to sleep too little or too much when you’re depressed.
There is a huge possibility your poor eating and sleeping habits worsen your symptoms. As a result, having a healthy daily routine might make it simpler to keep good behaviours.
Consider incorporating the following healthy habits:
- During the day, eat meals and snacks at regular intervals.
- Incorporate more veggies, lean meats, and healthy grains into your diet.
- Every night, get seven to nine hours of sleep.
- Every day, get up and go to bed at the same hour.
Plan out your day.
Scheduling your sleeping and eating habits, as well as the rest of your day, can help you avoid depression symptoms.
Making a list of daily activities to tick off as you finish them might be beneficial. Keeping a calendar and sticky notes might also help you remain on track.
Be careful to include time for rest and relaxation while planning your daily duties as too much activities could aggravate your depression symptoms instead of alleviating them.
It’s essential to prioritize your time, paying special attention to medical visits.
Don’t be scared
You may like particular activities, for example reading or baking, when you are not depressed. However, while you’re sad, you might not have the motivation to accomplish anything.
Regardless of your low mood and energy, it’s critical to continue participating in things that you normally like. Getting out and doing activities that make you happy might help you feel better.
Don’t be scared to engage in things that typically lift your spirits. While you may be concerned that you won’t appreciate them as much while you’re melancholy, this isn’t a reason to avoid them. You’ll most likely feel considerably better after you resume these activities.
Indulge in exercise daily
Researchers think that some forms of exercise might assist with depression symptoms. Low- to moderate-intensity walking, biking or jogging have scientifically proven to be helpful in treating bipolar disorder depression
Experts recommend that you exercise for thirty to forty minutes three to four times a week for the best effects.
Avoid isolating yourself.
Social interactions might be daunting when you’re sad. You probably want to be alone, but it’s crucial not to stay in isolation when depressed. Being alone might exacerbate depressive symptoms.
You can participate is social activities, for instance become a part of sporting teams surrurounding your area. Spend time with family and friends, or call them on a regular basis. Having the support of family and friends might make you feel more relaxed and confident.
Relieve stress using new ways
When you’re having a depressive episode, trying out new things would be the thing on your mind. However, trying out new activities will help relieve your stress.
Consider booking a massage at a nearby spa if you’ve never had one before.
Yoga or meditation, for example, may seem unfamiliar to you, but they can be therapeutic during depressed periods. These hobbies have a reputation for being soothing. Coping with stress or irritation becomes easy with these activities.
Participate in a support group.
Joining a support group for persons with bipolar disorder might be beneficial. A support group allows you to meet other individuals who have the same illness as you and share your experiences with them throughout depressed periods.
Inquire with your mental health professional about local support groups. You may also look online for different bipolar disorder depression support groups. A list of online support groups may be found on the websites of the Depression and Bipolar Support Societies
Conclusion
Although there is no cure for bipolar illness, it may be coped with by following a treatment plan and implementing lifestyle changes.
Temporary hospitalisation may be necessary in depressive episodes that are severe. Most of the time, however, a combination of medication and psychotherapy will be enough to control your bipolar disorder symptoms.
You may also make some simple lifestyle modifications to help you feel better during depression episodes.
It might be difficult to get past a depressed period, but it is doable. Keep in mind that there are a multitude of strategies to improve your mood and alleviate symptoms.
If you need assistance, do not even hesitate to contact your doctor or a mental health professional.