How to Handle Bipolar Depression
There's no denying the life-altering effects that bipolar disorder can have on a person's psyche.
Bipolar disorder is estimated to affect one out of every ten people at some point in their lives.
And, like any other serious illness, bipolar disorder can be very incapacitating.
Depression, for example, is part of the bipolar disorder cycle of major highs and lows.
It hinders your ability to function normally and prevents you from enjoying basic things you want to do or need.
Managing bipolar depression can be a challenging experience; fortunately, there are ways to handle bipolar depression.
The right support for bipolar disorder can make a big difference, and many therapies work very well.
Some of these include learning not to isolate yourself when experiencing a depressive episode.
While you might think being alone will help you handle bipolar depression, it is likely to increase the symptoms of depression.
Sticking to a healthy routine is an effective way to handle bipolar depression.
It is easy to get into bad habits when you are feeling depressed.
Healthy routines help to guide against such scenarios occurring.
Another way to handle bipolar depression is by staying active.
While depressive episodes can leave you feeling less motivated or having low energy levels, staying active is a good way to handle bipolar depression.
Read on to learn how to handle bipolar depression.
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Stick to A Healthy Routine
When you're feeling down, it's tempting to give in to unhealthy routines as a way to cope.
Some people, despite being hungry, don't feel like eating, while others keep eating even though they're full.
The same can be said about resting.
You're more likely to suffer from insomnia or oversleep when you're feeling down.
Depression symptoms can be exacerbated by engaging in unhealthy patterns of eating and sleeping.
As a result, having a regular routine can aid in the maintenance of positive behaviors.
Think about making some changes to your lifestyle that will benefit your health.
Stay Active
Individuals with bipolar disorder may struggle with low energy levels and lack motivation when experiencing a depressive episode.
Keeping active is one way to lessen the impact of these symptoms.
People with bipolar depression can benefit from staying active in a number of ways.
For starters, physical activity triggers the brain's production of endorphins, which have been shown to elevate mood and mitigate stress and anxiety.
Physical activity has been linked to increased feelings of self-worth and confidence.
Exercising is a great way to keep yourself busy and out of your head when you're feeling down.
Activities such as walking, jogging, swimming, doing yoga, and lifting weights are all examples of exercise.
Even low-impact exercises, like stretching or gentle yoga, can have positive effects.
Don't Isolate Yourself
People with bipolar disorder often withdraw from social interaction during a depressive episode.
Isolating yourself during depressive episodes is counterproductive.
To begin, being alone can make you feel less supported and loved.
Having someone to talk to, whether it's a friend or family member, can be incredibly helpful in times of depression.
Second, being on your own can make you feel even more alone, hopeless, and unworthy, all of which can amplify your depressive symptoms.
Bipolar people can benefit from positive social reinforcement and a renewed sense of purpose that comes from engaging in meaningful social activities.
Consider participating in group outings, like those hosted by local book clubs and sports teams.
Visit with loved ones or call them up on a regular basis.
Knowing you have the love and backing of your friends and family can do wonders for your self-assurance.
I see you, I hear you, and I validate you.
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Support Groups
Bipolar people can benefit greatly from attending support groups, as they can gain the social and emotional support they need to manage their condition.
Support groups bring together individuals experiencing similar problems and give them a safe place to talk about their experiences and ways to deal with them.
These groups can help those with bipolar disorder feel less alone and provide useful strategies for coping with their condition's symptoms.
One major advantage of joining a support group is that it can help people feel less lonely and isolated.
As a result, this can be especially helpful for those who have bipolar disorder and may feel stigmatized or misunderstood by others.
Individuals can feel more understood and accepted by society when they form bonds with others who have gone through similar experiences.
Furthermore, support groups can provide a wealth of resources that can aid in the management of a person's condition.
Members can share ideas and tips for dealing with mood swings, side effects of medications, and keeping healthy habits like getting enough sleep and exercising.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy can help bipolar patients manage depression by addressing psychological factors that contribute to their condition.
Through the help of mental health professionals, it provides a means to better understand and manage their emotions, thoughts, and actions.
Talk therapy helps bipolar people because it gives them a safe place to talk about their struggles with depression and other symptoms without fear of being judged.
The effects of mood swings can be prevented or lessened by taking preventative measures, which can be learned through therapy.
A person's understanding of the psychological factors that contribute to their bipolar disorder can also improve through therapy.
Individuals can learn more about the causes of their condition and create more appropriate strategies for dealing with it.
They can only achieve this if they take the time to examine their own mental, emotional, and behavioral processes.
Conclusion
Managing bipolar depression is a challenging experience, but there are effective ways to handle it.
These include sticking to a healthy routine, staying active, don't isolate yourself, support groups, and psychotherapy.
The best combination of strategies for each person's needs can be determined through collaboration with healthcare professionals and loved ones.
By implementing these strategies and seeking support for bipolar disorder, individuals with bipolar disorder can lead fulfilling, despite their condition.
Resources
https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/depression-symptoms
https://www.healthline.com/health/bipolar-disorder/depression#structure-your-day
https://www.psycom.net/bipolar-6-tips-live-better
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2990551/
https://www.charliehealth.com/post/what-is-bipolar-depression
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Many of us are often faced with struggles and hardships and finding help can be difficult. However, at Overcomers Counseling, we are here to help you in your time of need. We are passionate about people and we believe that ANYONE can be an overcomer if they are willing to pursue it. Don't let another day go by without getting the help you desire.
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