Recognizing the Signs of Relapse
It's not always easy to recognize the symptoms of bipolar disorder. After all, life has its ups and downs, and occasional mood swings are normal. However, you should be concerned if a loved one experiences extreme mood shifts and is acting differently than normal.
Make a list of behaviors that usually signal the onset of mania or depression in your loved one. For example, someone who is experiencing a relapse of a manic episode may go without much sleep or begin spending money on things he or she doesn't need. A person experiencing a depressive episode may not want to interact with people, or may have much less energy.
Create a relapse action plan
Talk to your loved one about what you can do to help if they relapse. You may have to make decisions about his or her care, if they cannot.
Avoiding relapse
Living well helps to avoid relapse. This is because physical and mental stress can trigger episodes of mania and depression. Encourage your loved one to:
- Eat a balanced diet
- Avoid stress (arguments, overwork, etc.)
- Exercise regularly
- Develop regular sleeping habits
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
- Follow a consistent daily routine
