Hi there, I have bipolar II and I can't say that I have much advice to give in handling mood swings, because I haven't been able to handle mine very well. I have been going through this for 2 years and I still haven't been able to handle things. There is hope of course, there is always hope that things will get better, or we learn how to cope better. I was searching online for some information on coping with mood swings for bipolar disorder. I found a couple of sites. Below is the information that I have found. Perhaps we can both learn how to cope with our mood swings. There is always something new to learn everyday. Really hope this helps.
Coping with Mood Swings Caused by Bipolar Disorder
If you are experiencing mood swings caused by bipolar disorder, you might be looking for ways to lessen the negative impact these mood swings have on your life. Drastic changes in mood can disrupt family life, friendships, work opportunities and personal pleasure, but it is possible to manage these changes so you don't have to worry about them as much.
1- Learn to Recognize Mania
Manic episodes can be seductive. Mood swings caused by bipolar disorder occur during both manic and depressive episodes, but some people feel as though mania is actually beneficial. In reality, it can be just as destructive as depression.If you don't report all bipolar disorder mood swings to your physician, he or she will not be able to help you cope. Knowing this, it is important to recognize manic episodes as well as depression to help keep the mood swings in check.
2- Find a Confidant
Be it a friend, family member, spouse or therapist, find someone to whom you can turn during mood swings caused by bipolar disorder. A safe and understanding individual in your life can become a grounding force in your life, someone who can help you deal with bipolar disorder mood swings and help you recognize them when they occur.
3- Keep a Journal
WebMD recommends keeping a journal to track bipolar disorder mood swings. You'll begin to notice patterns in your feelings and behavior that can help you predict future mood alterations. This will also help your doctor determine if your current course of treatment is effective.
4- Look for Specific Patterns
Many people can predict their bipolar disorder mood swings because experience has taught them when mood changes are most likely to occur. For example, perhaps you are more inclined toward manic episodes during the summer and depressive episodes in the winter. Or perhaps you are aware of certain events which affect your moods. If you know change is coming, it will be easier to deal with mood swings caused by bipolar disorder.
5- Reduce Stress
Bipolar disorder mood swings are far more common when you are under a great deal of pressure. If a project is due tomorrow at work or if your in-laws are visiting for the holidays, you might be more inclined toward an episode. If possible, reduce stress when you think you might be experiencing mood swings caused by bipolar disorder. Take a few days off work, spend some time with friends, take a long bath or start an exercise program. All of these activities will relieve pressure and give you room to breathe.
6- Find a Project
According to the National Institute of Medical Health (NIMH), bipolar disorder mood swings that occur during a depressive episode often include feelings of emptiness and anxiety. You can curb some of these feelings by delving into a project that excites or satisfies you. This might mean taking up a new hobby, drawing a picture, writing a story or engaging in any other activity that provides satisfaction. Although mood swings caused by bipolar disorder are organic in nature, you can still exercise some control over your moods.
7- Ask Friends and Family to Watch for Psychotic Symptoms
The NIMH lists several psychotic symptoms that might accompany bipolar disorder mood swings, including delusions and hallucinations. Since you might not be able to tell when you are experiencing these symptoms, it helps to have a friend or family member watch out for them for you.This is also why therapy is an integral part of coping with mood swings caused by bipolar disorder. Your therapists can help you monitor your health and watch for warning signs.
8- Tell Your Doctor
In the same vein, it is essential that you inform your doctor of bipolar disorder mood swings. Any changes in how you are feeling can be important to your treatment, so take good notes and let your doctor know as quickly as possible.
9- Track Frequency
According to the NIMH, rapid cycling bipolar disorder occurs when manic and depressive episodes shift quickly from one to the other. If you are experiencing this, bipolar disorder mood swings might be more intense and you may begin to feel as though you are losing control. It is a good idea to discuss this possibility with your physician to ensure you are receiving the proper treatment.
10- Build Acceptance
Mood swings caused by bipolar disorder can be stressful and unnerving, so it is important to come to a place where you feel comfortable with yourself. Accept your limitations and come to grips with reality so you are better able to approach treatment with a positive, hopeful attitude. Bipolar disorder mood swings can take their toll, but reaching out for assistance is essential. Find someone in your life, be it friend or therapist, who can help you manage and maintain your mood swings.
other helpful websites:
http://www.everydayhealth.com/bipola...od-swings.aspx
http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_d...&id=29532&cn=4
. Hopefully someone will answer your post who does have experience with Bipolar soon.
