|  Bipolar Coping Strategies 
Participate in pleasant or enjoyable activities
Monitor moods on a daily Basis to catch any early changes in mood pattern.
Take care of problems resulting from mania or depression such as financial problems, job difficulties, making amends to friends etc
Develop a routine to insure proper rest, relaxation and sleep. Going to bed, getting up, and eating meals at similar times each day helps maintain a regular routine.  Get sufficient exercise and follow a regular diet.
Deal with interpersonal problems resulting from the bipolar illness
Improve interpersonal effectiveness by learning more assertive ways of expressing oneself, sharing feelings, negotiating interpersonal conflict or dealing with negative relationships
Deal with grief issues associated with the loss of a significant relationship, role in life, or creativity and energy associated with manic states. Deal with others feelings associated with Bipolar illness (anger, guilt, emptiness, loneliness)
Include the family in the treatment and recovery process. Make amends to the family and give them a chance to discuss their experiences, feelings, Questions and concerns. This includes children as well as adults.
Discuss openly the fear that offspring will develop bipolar illness
Learn to challenge negative beliefs and thoughts in order to increase the number of positive thoughts Reach out to others to share problems, feelings, and accomplishments.
Rely on spirituality of prayer.
Learn to identify early signs of relapse and develop strategies to intervene. this can reduce the severity of an episode and often less damage caused by a relapse.
Those with a history of suicide attempts or who experience strong thoughts of suicide should develop a safety plan to reduce the chances of acting on suicide impulses. |
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