Coping with Bipolar Disorder Mood Episodes

Coping with a bipolar disorder mood episode is a difficult thing, no matter how prepared you may be. Still, there are a number of things that can be done to increase the likelihood that nothing too traumatic will happen during a bipolar disorder mood episode.

1. Individuals in the midst of a mood episode should be monitored closely by a loved one. During an episode, the individual might become unpleasant, but it is very important to keep tabs on him or her.

2. Do not allow the individual to go shopping alone during a manic episode. Impulsive spending occurs quite frequently during manic episodes, so it is important to ensure that the individual is not buying random items based on flawed logic.

3. Restrict credit card access during manic episodes. Online and over the telephone purchases can be equally detrimental.

4. Self-harm is a very real risk during depressive episodes, so it is important to restrict exposure to tools that might be used for self-harm. Removing temptation is often the best bet.

5. Monitor your loved one for increasingly dark statements that may indicate a will to self-harm. Prevention and worrying is always the best method of protection in this case.

6. Encourage individuals in manic, depressed, or mixed states to expressed themselves through some artistic outlet. This is very therapeutic.

7. Ensure that an individual in any state is continuing to take his or her medications. Even during the euphoria of mania, it is vitally important to continue medicinal treatments.

8. Do not tolerate aggressive behavior by an individual in the midst of a mood episode. There is only so much that one person should be required to deal with, and aggression is not part of the package.

9. To some extent, obey the individual's wishes. If he or she wants to spend some time alone, allow him or her to spend some time alone. Sometimes this is essential to recovering from a depressed state.

10. Encourage individuals coping with bipolar disorder to join a support group. Support groups provide support and answers to essential questions.

Coping with a bipolar disorder mood episode is not impossible, but things can get a bit tricky. Now that I know some of the tricks to dealing with my own mood episodes, I am so much better off than I ever was before. Hopefully, these ten tips can help you cope with yours or your loved one's illness.