Many different symptoms of varying severity are associated with bipolar disorder.

This can range from extreme sadness to manic elation to a combination of both or even a combination of depression and hyperactivity.

Generally, mood swings are characterized by shifts in impulsivity and spontaneity, two traits that are characteristic of those with bipolar disorder.

Persons with bipolar disorder are more likely to engage in risky behaviors like having unsafe sex or spending large sums of money on whims.

In fact, one of the hallmarks of bipolar disorder is an exaggerated pursuit of reward without adequate preparation.

While symptoms of bipolar disorder may seem insurmountable at first, it is manageable with the right treatment and support for bipolar disorder.

One way to prevent overspending during mania is by budgeting and setting a spending limit on your debit card.

This can be very effective because the limit curbs any attempt to overspend during episodes of mania.

Also, tracking your spending and mood is an effective way to prevent overspending during mania.

To this end, you can use a variety of tracking methods, such as maintaining a journal or making use of organizational software and mobile apps.

Another effective option you should consider is developing coping strategies to manage overspending mania episodes.

Coping strategies give you a positive outlet to help you through episodes that can cost you a lot of money.

Read on to learn more ways to prevent overspending during mania.

Budget And Set A Spending Limit On Your Debit Card

Debit card spending can be capped at a daily or weekly total amount by working with your bank to establish spending limits.

Once you have spent a certain amount, any further purchases will be declined by the bank.

This is a useful way to prevent overspending during mania.

Having a cap on your spending helps you stay within your set budget.

When you create a budget, you can decide which items are essential and which are not.

Prepare a budget that meets your essential expenses while still allowing you some wiggle room to indulge in some of your favorite indulgences.

Also, consider paying with cash and keeping your credit cards for emergencies only.

There are a lot of books and youtube channels out there that can help you learn how to manage your money better if you're having trouble getting started.

You can learn more by enrolling in a master's program or an online course.

Consider A Professional Accountant Or Power Of Attorney

Talk to a trusted loved one or financial advisor if you need help managing your finances because you know you're having trouble keeping track of your spending.

You can give another person legal authority over your financial matters by appointing them as your guardian or executing a durable power of attorney.

This authorization allows that individual to represent you and advocate for your best financial interests.

Although this may not be necessary, if you continue to struggle with managing your finances, it is important to involve a financially savvy individual.

When you recognize the onset of an episode, it can be helpful to have someone you can entrust your physical credit card to.

During a manic episode, a professional service or entrusted person can assist with budgeting and spending control.

Track Your Spending And Your Mood

Keeping a mood journal can be very helpful for your mental and financial well-being.

Get a better handle on your emotions and behavior by keeping tabs on the ways in which you're changing.

Keeping tabs on your emotional state allows you to notice even minute changes in how you act.

The earlier these changes are recognized, the better they can be managed before they become too intense or uncontrollable.

Keeping a journal, using a mood tracker or mental health app, or scheduling regular appointments with a therapist, are all great ways to keep tabs on your emotional state.

Take note of whether or not you are increasing your spending as a result of your moods.

Are you getting less sleep than usual?

If that's the case, you might be entering a manic phase.

Before it's too late, talking to a trusted loved one or healthcare provider can help you manage your mood and protect your finance.

Develop A Coping Strategy

When experiencing mania, it's important to keep your mind active in other ways.

Find things you take pleasure in doing; this will help you to channel your energy in a positive direction.

This way, your focus is shifted away from destructive and risky pursuits like excessive spending.

If you can, enlist the aid of loved ones who are able to assist in achieving this.

There are other things you can do besides shop or spend money if you find yourself tempted to do so.

Additionally, coping strategies help reduce stress.

You may become more anxious, irritable, or manic when faced with stressful situations.

By preventing or reducing stress, you may be able to manage your bipolar symptoms more effectively.

This can prevent you from engaging in reckless spending sprees or other negative behaviors.

A Supportive Inner Circle Or Support Group

It may be easier to recognize when your spending has become problematic if you have the support of loved ones during a manic episode.

The people closest to you are often the first to spot signs of mania and can advise you on how to best protect your assets.

In addition, there are a few other options to think about.

You should look for local support groups that deal with either excessive spending or bipolar disorder.

In a support group, you can talk about your feelings and get feedback from people who understand what you're going through.

Ask your therapist or local counseling center for suggestions on support groups in your area.

Conclusion

Among the characteristics of bipolar disorder are spontaneity and impulsivity.

A person with bipolar disorder may engage in impulsive, uncharacteristic, or risky behavior, such as excessive spending.

Nonetheless, the appropriate support for bipolar disorder can make all the difference.

Effective ways to prevent overspending during mania include: budgeting and setting a spending limit on your debit card, considering a professional accountant or power of attorney, a supportive inner circle and support group, tracking your spending and your mood, and developing a coping strategy.

Resources 

https://psychcentral.com/bipolar/spending-sprees-in-bipolar-disorder#summary

https://www.wikihow.health/Avoid-Spending-Sprees-with-Bipolar-Disorder

https://www.health.com/money/bipolar-disorder-symptoms-overspending-debt

https://www.wired.com/story/money-management-tips-formerly-manic-spender/

https://www.cadabams.org/blog/bipolar-disorder-and-impulsive-spending-sprees

https://ibpf.org/how-to-prevent-manic-spending/