Treating bipolar disorder isn't always about medications and therapy, although these are two essential parts of most treatment plans. Proper self care is also an important part of coping with this disease. Bipolar disorder is often accompanied by sleep disturbances. When you're manic, sleep becomes irrelevant and unimportant. You feel as if you have a decreased need for sleep. When you're depressed, you may feel like it's incredibly difficult to get going – like you want to sleep all the time. Oversleeping is common in depressed individuals.
A crucial part of treating bipolar disorder is working out a sleep schedule and sticking to it. Decide on the amount of sleep that you need in order to function at your best, and make getting this sleep a priority. If you're struggling with insomnia, you might consult your psychiatrist about a medication adjustment. If you're struggling with daytime sleepiness, your medication dosages could be too strong, or you could just be fighting with the fatigue that often accompanies depression.
Bipolar disorder is a cyclical disease. While you cannot control the cycles completely, you may be able to make the transitions more gradual by getting enough sleep. Lack of sleep can increase stress levels, add to your anxiety, and contribute to a general feeling of yuck. Too much sleep may leave you feeling hung over and lethargic. By setting a sleep routine and making sure you stick to it, you're controlling yet another symptom of your illness, and helping your body get the rest it desperately needs. Treating bipolar disorder isn't always easy, but a solid sleep routine can help.
Tomorrow, we'll discuss some simple tips for getting the sleep that you need.
Tags: Bipolar Disorder, Major depressive disorder, Treating Bipolar Disorder
