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How to cope with manic episode

How To Cope With a Manic Episode

The ups and downs of bipolar disorder can be challenging to manage. But with the right skills, you can get through manic episodes feeling more balanced. Enroll in a bipolar disorder treatment program to learn how to manage your condition to improve your quality of life.

When you choose mental health treatment at Promises Five Palms, you will never have to feel alone with your struggles. We help people manage mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through therapy, medication, and ongoing support. To learn how to cope with manic episodes so they no longer rob you of peace of mind, reach out to us at 1.844.675.1022 to schedule an assessment.

What Is a Manic Episode?

A manic episode is characterized by a period of high energy and activity lasting approximately three to six months. People experiencing manic episodes may also exhibit extreme emotions. For some, the thought of enhanced energy and activity may sound appealing, but a manic episode takes this energy to another level.

During a manic episode, people may spend much of their time fixating on one thing or bouncing between different activities. They may also forego adequate sleep to engage in their newfound obsession.

Manic episodes are associated with:

  • Bipolar disorder
  • Postpartum psychosis
  • Schizoaffective disorder
  • Seasonal affective disorder

People diagnosed with the above conditions may also go through periods of feeling especially low, the opposite of a manic episode. The drastic highs and lows can feel like an emotional roller coaster and disrupt your overall health and happiness.

How to Cope With a Manic Episode

While you cannot prevent manic episodes completely, you can prepare for them by developing strong coping skills. Here are some helpful tips for how to cope with a manic episode:

Know your triggers

Although it can be tough to know exactly what causes manic episodes, there are a few common triggers. Situations that stress the mind or body are common culprits, such as sleep deprivation, substance use, overstimulating environments, and major life changes such as divorce, the death of a loved one, or the loss of a job. Keep a journal and notice patterns in what situations tend to precede manic episodes. This can help you anticipate when the next episode may come and take steps to help reduce the severity or length of the episode.

Develop healthy routines

Developing healthy routines can soothe your mind during manic episodes. Although it may be tempting to stay up late when you have loads of energy, it is important to stick to your routine and get plenty of rest to help you stay balanced. It may help to create a relaxing evening routine to prepare your mind and body for bed. Taking a hot bath, stretching, reading a book, or journaling can all signal to your mind that it is time to wind down.

Avoid substance use

Drugs and alcohol can stimulate an already overstimulated mind during a manic episode. Caffeine and sugar may also have a negative impact at this time. Keep your kitchen stocked with healthier alternatives, such as herbal teas, sparkling water, fruit, and whole-grain crackers with guacamole or hummus.

Build a support system

During a manic episode, staying on track with your goals can be challenging. Enlist the support of loved ones you can count on to help you avoid making major life decisions, large purchases, or going out partying when experiencing manic episodes. You can also gain support from a treatment team as part of a bipolar disorder treatment program.

Treatment for bipolar disorder can help you cultivate the coping skills you need to manage manic episodes with ease. Your team can provide you with the appropriate medications and therapies to help you get bipolar disorder under control and possibly even reduce the severity and frequency of manic episodes.

Promises Five Palms: Support for Managing Bipolar Disorder

At Promises Five Palms, we understand that manic episodes can be exhilarating but they are also detrimental to your well-being. We’re here to help you discover a more balanced life with bipolar disorder. Call us at 1.844.675.1022 to enroll in bipolar disorder treatment and start working toward calmer, happier days.

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