Do I have to change my routines because of my bipolar disorder?

Oh my, yes!

I found that my entire life had to change when I was finally diagnosed with bipolar II at age 31.

There were good changes and very, very tough changes. But I made them and still make them daily. It's complex! But life can be good.

Here are the areas where changes in routine make the biggest difference:  

Relationships: This may not seem like a change in routine, but if you routinely have relationship problems, it will show up in mood swings. Stressful relationships trigger symptoms, especially in romantic relationships. Emotions are so high when sex, love and other needs are involved.

Thus, working hard to have balanced and stable relationships is essential. Therapy can really help with this. You can explore the question: What does it take to be a better friend? Partner? Parent? Books are great as well. My favorite is The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz.

Sleep: Bipolar is a double edged sword. It can cause sleep problems especially due to mania. And our choices regarding sleep can cause mood swings. Not fair, but true. Travel is especially hard as it can disturb sleep. Establishing a balanced sleep routine is essential. There are some things that are hard to give up, but really help:

1. Caffeine: If you are having trouble sleeping, caffeine use has to be examined. As I write this I have an iced coffee next to me. (yikes!) It’s always a challenge. My goal is to moderate and only have a small amount of coffee in the morning. Energy drinks are big trouble as well.

2. Watching movies or television before sleeping: Staying up late watching Netflix on demand on your computer is not a good idea if sleep is an issue. I speak from experience as I’m known to watch an entire season of 30 Rock in one sitting.  A violent crime, forensic, cold case, medical examiner vampire show at 10PM is not a great idea either!

3. Troubled relationships and sleep: It always comes back to relationships. If you have a personal or work relationship that makes it hard to sleep, things won’t get better unless the relationship issues are addressed. Knocking yourself out with sleep meds is not an answer. I’ve tried. (Alcohol won’t work either.)

‘Sleep hygiene’ is the buzz word today and it’s one of the biggest changes in routine you’ll have to explore.

Ah.. what else?

Think of anything that you do in a day and examine whether it makes bipolar disorder better or worse. This will help you decide what daily routines need to change.

Julie