Developing good habits can help you to better manage living with bipolar disorder. Here are some tips:

]]> Take Your Medications

You may be taking a number of medications. Under certain circumstances, you may be tempted to skip your medication, or it may simply slip your mind. Remember that it’s extremely important that you take your medications as recommended by your doctor or your symptoms may recur.

Ask your doctor for guidance on when to take your medicines and what to do if you miss a dose. Try using "sticky" notes in visible places to remind you to take your medicines.

Get Adequate Sleep

Getting adequate sleep on a regular schedule is very effective in preventing mood cycling. Sleep deprivation alters your brain chemistry and can bring on manic episodes. If you are having sleep problems, discuss this with your doctor. If necessary, your doctor may prescribe a medicine that will help you sleep better.

Learn How to Manage Stress

Stress can trigger manic attacks. Make sure that you get plenty of rest and relaxation, have a job that you enjoy, and don’t take on more responsibilities than you can handle. A variety of relaxation techniques can help you to cope more effectively with stressors that can trigger your symptoms. You may want to consider meditation]]> , deep breathing, progressive relaxation, ]]>yoga]]> , ]]>biofeedback]]> , ]]>massage]]> , or other activities that you find pleasurable and relaxing.

]]> Eat a Healthful Diet

Eat a healthful diet]]> on a regular basis—one that is low in saturated fat and rich in whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. If your medications cause weight gain, you may need to cut back on your calories.

Some preliminary studies suggest that consuming ]]>omega-3 fatty acids]]> may help reduce symptoms of bipolar disorder. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in oily fish, such as mackerel, sardines, salmon, and bluefish.

]]> Exercise Regularly

Exercising]]> on a regular basis can help you to manage stress, control weight gain that may result from medications, and can help increase feelings of well-being.