Bipolar Disorder
UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING BIPOLAR DISORDER
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a treatable mental health condition characterized by significant mood shifts between highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). With proper treatment, people with bipolar disorder can lead stable, fulfilling lives.
Recognizing Mood Episodes
Manic/Hypomanic Symptoms (elevated mood):
Increased energy, activity, or restlessness
Decreased need for sleep
Racing thoughts or rapid speech
Feeling euphoric or unusually irritable
Impulsive or risky behavior (spending, sexual activity, substance use)
Feeling invincible or overly confident
Depressive Symptoms (low mood):
Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
Loss of interest in activities
Changes in sleep or appetite
Fatigue or lack of energy
Difficulty concentrating
Thoughts of death or suicide
Daily Management Strategies
Take Medication Consistently
Mood stabilizers and other medications are essential. Never stop medication without consulting your doctor—even when feeling great.
Maintain a Strict Routine
Regular sleep/wake times are critical. Disrupted sleep can trigger mood episodes.
Track Your Mood
Use a mood chart or app daily. This helps you and your provider identify patterns and early warning signs.
Know Your Warning Signs
Mania: Less sleep needed, increased energy, racing thoughts, irritability
Depression: Oversleeping, withdrawal, loss of motivation, negative thoughts
Avoid Triggers
Get 7–9 hours of sleep consistently
Limit caffeine
Avoid alcohol/drugs
Manage stress with relaxation techniques
Avoid overscheduling or high-stress situations
Build Support
Stay connected with family/friends, attend support groups, communicate openly with your treatment team.
Create Structure
Plan daily activities, set realistic goals, maintain work-life balance.
Exercise Regularly
Moderate exercise helps stabilize mood—but avoid intense late-night workouts that disrupt sleep.
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Treatment Options
Medication
Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants (used carefully), or combinations.
Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy, family-focused therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy.
Lifestyle Management
Sleep hygiene, stress reduction, routine maintenance.
Support Services
Peer support groups, psychoeducation, case management.
Working with Your Treatment Team
Report mood changes early—don’t wait for full episodes
Be honest about medication adherence and side effects
Discuss substance use openly
Review your mood tracking together
Create a crisis plan for emergencies
Involve trusted family/friends when helpful
Warning Signs to Report Immediately
Decreased need for sleep or inability to sleep
Increased impulsive or risky behavior
Rapid mood changes
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Symptoms interfering with work, relationships, or daily life
Stopping or missing medications
Preventing Relapse
Take medication exactly as prescribed
Maintain consistent sleep schedule
Monitor mood daily
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs
Manage stress proactively
Attend all appointments
Act on early warning signs immediately
Resources
Crisis/Support:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text)
Text HOME to 741741
Emergency: 911
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA): 1-800-826-3632
Contact your psychiatrist or treatment team
This tip sheet is for educational purposes. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific treatment plan.