LIVING WITH BIPOLAR DISORDER By Crystal Fernandez
WHAT IS BIPOLAR DISORDER ? • Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme lows and extreme highs. • While the disorder presents itself in different ways, all people from different races, ages and backgrounds are affected by this disease. • It is important to know that mental illness is just like any other illness in its severity, and should be treated properly. • Although there is no cure medication and living a healthy lifestyle will help manage symptoms.
WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF BIPOLAR DISORDER? • Signs and symptoms can vary. • Bipolar consists of mood swings range from manic highs to depressive lows. • It is important to notify your doctor when signs and symptoms of an episode occur in order to prevent accidental harm to yourself and so treatment and medication is properly managed.
HOW DO I MANAGE THIS DISORDER AND LIVE A HEALTHY LIFE? • Bipolar Disorder is a chronic illness which means it is life long. • While the disorder will never go away it is manageable. • Three major points to manage this disease and have heathier outcomes are • Medication & Sticking to Medication Treatment • Having Social Support • Exercise
WHY DO I HAVE TO KEEP TAKING MEDICINE? • Even when you are feeling better you need to keep taking your medication. • Bipolar disorder is manageable but only when taking your medicine, so make sure you talk to your doctor if you are having side-effects or questions regarding your medication. • Medication can take weeks and even sometimes months to start, so do not feel discouraged if you do not start feeling better right away. • Even when you start feeling better, keep taking your medication. It is necessary to keep taking medication for long-term management.
WHY DO OTHER PEOPLE NEED TO KNOW? • By having a social support, you will not feel so alone and stressed in having to manage everything alone. • Although a person with bipolar disorder is able to manage their symptoms individually, social and family support are helpful in recognizing signs and symptoms of a bipolar event. • Bipolar disorder is like any other illness and is nothing to feel ashamed about. There are many support groups available to help.
HOW DOES EXERCISE HELP? • By getting regular exercise for at least an hour three to five times a week, you will lower your chance of obesity. • Studies show those who are overweight and have bipolar depression have more health issues including increased symptoms of bipolar disorder and more hospitalizations. • By increasing exercise you also have an outlet to get rid of some of your stress and increase your endorphins. • Endorphins are chemicals in the brain that help regulate your mood and help you sleep better.
CAN I PREVENT BIPOLAR DISORDER? • Bipolar is not preventable, but it is manageable. • It is important to keep communication open between you, your doctor and your support system to make a plan of care that best suits you.