Some Basic Self-Care Strategies for People Living With Bipolar Illness:
- Establish a relationship of trust with a psychiatrist who is experienced in working with
bipolar illness;
- Take your medication as directed by your physician (even at times when you are feeling
better -- treatments and their effects are for the long term);
- Eat healthy foods, at regular meal times;
- Get adequate sleep on a regular schedule (because mania or depression can be triggered
by poor sleep patterns, immediately contact your doctor to secure assistance if your sleep
pattern becomes disrupted);
- Establish a routine of regular exercise;
- Avoid excessive intake of caffeine;
- Don't let yourself become isolated -- seek out support from family and friends
(including, of course, the support available to you at the Harbor of Refuge).
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