Lifestyle Changes To Help Bipolar Depression
Nourish Yourself with Healthy Food
Good nutrition supports all your body systems. It helps you function at your best. Keep saturated fats to a minimum and stick to whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables to fill your plate.
Commit to an Exercise Routine
Even if it’s only a walk around your neighborhood once a day, regular physical activity boosts your mood naturally.
Prioritize Sleep
Getting enough sleep regulates your brain chemistry. The quality of your sleep matters, too. Keep a sleep schedule that’s the same every day. Put away screens well before bedtime. And keep your bedroom dark, cool, and distraction-free for a restful night’s sleep.
Make Time to Meditate
Regular meditation that involves intentional times of calm and peace helps alleviate guilt, depressed mood, and helplessness-hopelessness for some people.
Manage Stress
Stress can affect your mood. Rest is important. Hobbies and activities that bring you joy can also help. Practice relaxation methods such as progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, biofeedback, and massage to dial back the stress in your daily life.
Cut Out Drugs and Alcohol
There’s a strong link between alcoholism and bipolar disorder. Aside from the risk of addiction, alcohol and drug use can interfere with your meds. They can make symptoms like depression worse over time.
Take Meds as Directed
Even when you’re feeling stable, your meds are important. Don’t stop taking them unless your doctor tells you to, and don’t skip doses.
Stick to a Routine
When your mood is unstable, having a set order to your day can give you structure. Some studies show keeping a consistent schedule can help ease some bipolar symptoms.
Keep a Journal
Take note of how you’re feeling every day as a way to get familiar with your triggers. It also helps track how your treatment is working. You can spot patterns in your eating and sleeping habits – as well as your mood. This can help you and your doctor adjust your therapy, meds, or schedule as needed.
Build a Support Network
Make sure the people closest to you are educated about your condition. When you have trusted friends and family members you can lean on in times of crisis, you’ll feel less alone and have the support you need when you’re struggling.
