How to Manage your Bipolar Disorder Daily

This series is in response to a question from a reader. She wanted to know how to get through the day living with untreated bipolar disorder. Normally I would suggest looking into medication to go along with self coping techniques, but because in this case that is not possible I’m going to give you some tips on coping with bipolar disorder on your own. Which I know can be very hard to do especially if you don’t know where to start. Think of this as your road map to a successful day. All you have to do is follow it.

Count Some Sheep

1 sheep…. 2 sheep….. 3 sheep….. Getting enough sleep is vital for anyone with Bipolar Disorder. Too little sleep and you could cycle into mania and too much sleep can trigger depression so a balance is needed. Eight to nine hours of sleep is the amount you need to function properly throughout the day. Losing just an hour or two of that time has a big impact on your day and your mood. Think of it like the difference between the grouch and the tooth fairy. The grouch is moody and quite honestly scary (sort of like me before my coffee) the tooth fairy is upbeat and full of energy (little too perky for me but that’s just my opinion) It helps to follow a routine with your sleep. Going to sleep the same time every night and waking up the same time every day will get your body used to that schedule and make it easier to go to sleep and wake up. If you have trouble sleeping avoid drinking caffeine late into the day. Yes that means putting down the mountain dew you’re having after dinner, and picking up the water or if you like flavor tea is good too. With the hundreds of different flavors out there your bound to never run our of options. I find peppermint tea before bed helps. If you have trouble with racing thoughts at night it’s also helpful to turn off the TV an hour before you go to bed, because studies have proven that watching TV right before heading to bed makes falling asleep harder, and turning it off an hour in advance gives your mind enough time to process all your thoughts from the show before heading to the land of darkness. And of course if necessary start counting those little sheep in your head. (Not to be confused with the little voice inside your head)

Eating Healthy

My mother always said that the quickest way to a man’s heart is through food, and the reason that is true is because everyone (girls included) loves food. Out of the 7 Billion people on the planet 7 Billion of us love food. You do the math on what percentage that is. However just because we like food doesn’t mean it’s good for us. Not just for our waistline but for our mood as well. Sometimes it can be hard to eat healthy. Especially when we see all the bad foods that tastes so good. The mood a person with bipolar has can depend on what type of food they put in there body. Chocolate may be the best food men have ever discovered in my opinion (this coming from a self proclaimed chocoholic), but if you eat a lot of chocolate your going to be sluggish. However if you eat a lot of fruit you’re going to have a higher energy level. The best mood enhancing foods are fresh fruit, vegetables, and whole grains. Adding in those foods can help bring your mood up. Try starting off the day with a fruit smoothie or oatmeal with fresh strawberries instead of sugar filled cereal or take some fruit for snacks throughout the day. They can be just as tasty as and more satisfying than the most appealing junk food. It’s also better to eat several smaller meals throughout the day so your blood sugar levels don’t drop. I know first hand as the sibling of a boy who acts like Grumpy from Snow White whenever he doesn’t eat and I can assure you it isn’t fun. (Not sure who it’s worse for him or me) Keeping a balanced diet is a necessary part of life, and the sooner you start the sooner you reap the benefits.

Gold Star for Brandon and the Bipolar Bear

Brandon and the Bipolar Bear won the award it deserved, and as the grateful daughter of an amazing author I would like to thank each and every one of you who voted for your support. It wasn't easy and it took a lot of work, but thankfuly perseverence won out. Now the book will be recognized as the Favorite Special Needs Childrens Book. Thank you and goodnight. (Like my Grammy Speech? Hey you never know when you might need it)

And the nominee is.....Brandon and the Bipolar Bear

Every parent who has a child with bipolar disorder has read them the book Brandon and the Bipolar Bear, and if you haven't pick up a copy right now and read it to them because it's an amazing book. And I'm not just saying that because my mother wrote it (I'm not biased at all, I swear)I'm saying it because it's true. For the first time Brandon and the Bipolar Bear has been nominated for the Favorite Special- Needs Children's Book on About.com We are all very excited, but since it's a contest for which book is the people's favorite (although I thought it was obvious)the people have to choose. The site that's having the contests is About.com here's the link http://specialchildren.about.com/b/2011/02/11/vote-for-favorite-special-needs-childrens-book.htmvote for the very first one Brandon and the Bipolar Bear so a very special writer, advocate, and parent, who has helped countless people understand bipolar disorder and how to cope with it, can win a very special award that it deserves.

Bipolar Disorder and Season Changes

There are many things that affect the moods of people with bipolar disorder. One of them is the changing of the seasons. It sounds weird but its true different times of the year have different effects on people with Bipolar Disorder. The most drastic months are fall and spring. This next segment talks about the changes and side effects this can cause.

Autumn

The months of fall are tough months for people with depressive tendencies. The change of weather, lack of a bright sunny atmosphere, and excessive amounts of dull and dreary days often causes a mood shift. (Just writing about it is making me depressed) It can take someone from a happy mood, (or at least not too grumpy) to sad and depressed. October has always been a hard month for me personally. The transition from summer to fall often puts me, and others, into a more depressed state. I usually need a temporary medicine change to get me through those months. If you are into alternative methods or natural remedies I also take something called Omega 3 it’s an all natural fish oil that boosts your mood, reduces anxiety, and helps you feel better. It has been amazing for me. It helps not only my moods from bipolar but also my anxiety I can tell a difference when I miss a dose automatically. However in interest of full disclosure there are a small percentage of people who take it that it sends into a more manic state. So if you’re going to try it start out with one and if you feel good then you can take more. You can find it at any store that sells vitamins it’s just concentrated Omega 3s and Fish oil.

Warning Signs of Seasonal Depression

Lack of Enjoyment- A person may lose interest in things they previously enjoyed. They may start something and then suddenly lose interest and stop. A person may not want to do anything at all. Low Energy- A lack of energy may make the most insignificant tasks difficult. The person may not feel like they have the strength to get out of bed. Change in Sleep Pattern- A person may sleep more often and for longer periods of time. Excessive sleeping can make it hard for a person to get up for school or work in the morning and may cause some school absences. Changes in Eating- A person may start overeating or eating more comfort foods and carbohydrates, which can cause weight gain. Difficulty Concentrating- A person may have trouble concentrating on a task they’ve been assigned or may forget what they just read easily, which can cause problems in school or work.

Why Does This Happen?

Experts believe that seasonal depression is triggered by the decrease of daylight. Nobody knows for sure why this happens, but scientists theorize that sunlight may play a role in making some of the brains hormones. With less sunlight less of one hormone is made and more of another so those hormones are unbalanced, (which is a lot like bipolar disorder itself.) The decreased hormone is called serotonin and the increased hormone is called melatonin. Melatonin is what the body produces when it’s dark to make you sleepy so if it’s darker longer then it makes more melatonin which is what makes you have a lack of energy, sleepy and moody. (Bonus points for anyone who can name the other 5 of the 7 dwarfs) All these variables combined is what makes a higher risk of depression.

And the nominee is.....Brandon and the Bipolar Bear

Every parent who has a child with bipolar disorder has read them the book Brandon and the Bipolar Bear, and if you haven't pick up a copy right now and read it to them because it's an amazing book. And I'm not just saying that because my mother wrote it (I'm not biased at all, I swear)I'm saying it because it's true. For the first time Brandon and the Bipolar Bear has been nominated for the Favorite Special- Needs Children's Book on About.com We are all very excited, but since it's a contest for which book is the people's favorite (although I thought it was obvious)the people have to choose. The site that's having the contests is About.com here's the link http://specialchildren.about.com/b/2011/02/11/vote-for-favorite-special-needs-childrens-book.htm vote for the very first one Brandon and the Bipolar Bear so a very special writer, advocate, and parent, who has helped countless people understand bipolar disorder and how to cope with it, can win a very special award that it deserves.

A New Year

The turning of a new year means accomplishment. We must have done something right the year before to still be here. So pat yourself on the back for that. Some think it means another year of challenges, dissapointments, and heartache. I say stop thinking that right now! Instead think another year of happy moments, new learning experiences, and successful life. Take each day one at a time and you'll make it through with a smile.(ok at least a half smile) I wanted to share with you one of my favorit quotes. It inspires me I hope it does the same to you. "When life gives you a hundred reasons to break down and cry, show life you have a million reasons to smile and laugh!"

We Won!

I'm glad to announce that the Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation won the grant funding. Now there starting a new program that will help children with Bipolar Disorder be able to succeed. Thank you for your support and your voting.

Zealous for Support

I informed my readers in my previous blog about the exciting contest pepsi is running, and I’m not the only one who is zealously advocating this. There are many other people in the bipolar community who have shown their support by voting everyday, and even getting other people to vote too. Their help has gained us much support. I know it has been a long month, and you may be starting to lose some of your zeal. However it is more important now than ever that you continue to vote, and spread the word. The end of the month and contest is fast approaching. Now is the time for all of us to band together and take a stand for what is right. Because winning this contest is something that is right. It is something that needs to be done, and it is something all of us should be cheering and voting for! (Insert crowd standing up and applauding here) For more information visit www.bpkids.org/pepsi To remember to vote just think there's no place like voting, there's no place like voting, there's no place like voting, and we'll win!

Help CABF Win Contest (Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation)

Pepsi Refresh is running a contest for great ideas. The cause with the most votes gets 250,000 in funding money. I’m asking you to vote for my favorite cause the Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation. All you have to do is vote every day through the end of November. You can vote three ways every day. (Just remember Lays Potato chips and think “can’t vote just once”) You can text your vote by texting Pepsi at (73774) with the voting number (104174) once a day. You can also vote on facebook. All you have to do is go to http://tiny.cc/votecabf and click the button that says vote. The last way you can vote is online at Pepsi website just go to http://pep.si/votecabf. CABF is an excellent organization that has helped countless people by educating and supporting families and teens with bipolar disorder. If that’s not enough of a motivator, if you sign up for their daily email reminder you are put in a drawing for a free iPad if CABF wins (Insert crowd screaming with excitement here). With your help this foundation will win and continue their much needed work.

Why You Should Vote

I know some of you reading this are bored and uninterested and probably thinking, “So what big deal,” (Hopefully not by my blog writing because that would kill my ego) but there are a lot of reasons to be supporting this cause. I know what you’re thinking and CABF isn’t just another organization wanting money. It is an organization that has helped raise awareness of teenage bipolar disorder, and helped teens like you and me get the help they need. (In my opinion that alone should be enough to give a standing ovation). We should all be interested and even dedicated to this organization no matter if it’s you, your friend, or family member that has Bipolar Disorder, because this will make a world of difference in your life as well as theirs (Especially for those whose hair has started to thin from constantly pulling it out trying to find information on bipolar disorder). One teen set the example we should all follow when she went a step further than just voting. 17- year-old Hillary Tilles, who has a friend with Bipolar Disorder, set out on mission to help CABF when she found out about the contest. She got her entire school involved. She talked to her teachers who had her pass out flyers with the information to give to the class for homework. She also talked to her resource counselor who passed it out to the parents. That shows how important it is to her. I know it is to me too. (Disclaimer: I’m not asking you to go buck wild and tattoo it on your chest) I’m asking you to give your support to a more than worthy cause and spread the message as well. Visit http://www.bpkids.org/pepsi to get more ideas for spreading the message. My name is Ciara and I approve this message.

Side Effects

Side effects are the pesky things that come with feeling better. Some people get them worse than others. In fact some people don’t get them at all it just depends on how you react to the medicine. Tell your doctor about any side effects you’re having. Your doctor may change the dose of your medicine or add on a medicine that’s meant to help get rid of the side effects. I had to do that with mine, which was good because I stayed stable and minimized the side effects. Always consider the pros and cons of the effect your medicine is having on you. If the pros out way the cons then you should consider staying on your medicine if the side effects are livable. Never stop taking your medicine without your doctors approval Only your doctor should change anything that has to do with your medicine. When you start messing around with it you just make it worse. He knows what he’s talking about so you should listen.

Be Patient with Your Medicine

It may take a few weeks to start feeling better. It may take even longer for the medicine to work all the way. It’s important to stick with your medicine even after you find the right one and feel better. Keep taking your medicine as directed to prevent the bad symptoms from coming back. During stable periods you may be tempted to go off your medicine because you feel good but if you do that you will quickly be right back where you were without the medicine and have to start all over again. Because the medicine you’re taking is what’s making you feel better, because as you read Bipolar Disorder doesn’t just go away once you have it you have it. When I first started taking medicine it was a trial period. Some of the medicines worked and others didn’t when they didn’t I would try a new one which 9 times out of 10 made me feel better. Some people have more trouble finding medicines than others do, but if they stick with it they’ll feel better in the long run, which makes it worth the while.

Medicines for Bipolar Disorder- How Do They Work

Some people are skeptical when it comes to taking medicine, but I’m living proof that no matter what anyone says taking medicine works. But it only works if you make it work. When your doctor prescribes medication to control your moods and make you feel better than you have to follow the doctors instructions for them to work. Sometimes they work and sometimes they don’t. Take it from me it can be really hard during the transition to a certain medication, but look at the big picture. It’s better for you in the long run to stick with it then to give up and be worse later on. My advice is for you is stick with it, and always consult your doctor.

Tips for Remembering to Take Your Medicine

Taking medicine is hard enough to remember but especially if you take more than one medication at different times of the day. Here are some tips on how to remember. 1. Take your medicine at the same time you do other things every day. For instance taking your morning medicine with your breakfast or coffee, will help you get in the habit. 2. Us a pill box marked for the day and time of day so you know which ones you’ve taken and which ones you still need to take. 3. Leave yourself a note. If I start forgetting I’ll put a sticky note on the mirror so it’s one of the first things I see in the morning. 4. Keep your medicine in a place you can see it every day easily. I put mine on top of my dresser so I can see it clearly and that makes it harder to forget. 5. Set your watch alarm if you take a medicine at a different time. Or you can put it in your calendar in your phone so it rings to remind you.

You and Medicine Segment

Usually I try to stay neutral in talking about traditional medicine and homeopathic medicines because I don’t want to offend anyone, but I’m going to write a few articles on both. Bipolar Disorder is not something people do to get attention. Despite what some think Bipolar Disorder isn’t something the person can change it’s not something people do to act out it’s a real health problem , and just like any other health problems it needs to be dealt with properly for you to feel better. Bipolar Disorder can’t be cured but the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder can be managed. Taking your medicine prescribed by your doctor is one of the most important things you can do, which sometimes is easier said than done.