Managing a Manic Episode

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How do I manage a manic episode?

The best way to manage a manic episode is to avoid triggers that may make the behaviors more intense. Some simple lifestyle modifications can help avoid such triggers.

• Maintain a stable sleep pattern. Try to go to bed around the same time each night and awaken around the same time each morning. Changing sleep patterns can cause chemical changes in the body that trigger mood episodes.
• Maintain a regular daily routine. Try to do the same things every day at about the same time without becoming too rigid.
• Set realistic goals. Setting high goals and focusing too hard on achieving them can trigger a manic episode.
• Do not use alcohol or illegal drugs. It may be tempting to use alcohol or drugs to help get through a manic episode; however, this will make the mood changes worse. Even small amounts can interfere with sleep, mood, or medications used to treat bipolar disorder. Also, be careful taking nonprescription medications for cold, allergies, or pain, because these also can trigger a change in mood.
• Get help from family and friends. You or your child will sometimes need help through a manic episode, especially when experiencing the loss of reality that sometimes occurs. Having a plan in place before any mood changes occur will assist those who care in getting the needed help. However, try to remember that these mood changes can sometimes be upsetting to loved ones and that these people may also need to seek support.
• Reduce stress at home and at work. Try to keep regular hours at work or at school. Doing a good job is important, but avoiding a depressive or manic mood episode is more important. If stress at work, school, or home is a problem, counseling may be help improve the situation and decrease stress.
• Learn to recognize the early warning signs of a new manic episode. This is one of the most important ways to avoid a full-blown manic episode. If the episode is caught in its early stages, you or your child may be able to avoid an intense manic episode through responsive treatment and by avoiding triggers that are causing the new mood change. You may want to note when your or your child's moods change and the activities that may be triggering those changes.
• Continue treatment. It is sometimes tempting to discontinue treatment during a manic episode because you or your child may actually like the way it feels. However, it is very important to continue treatment as prescribed to avoid the unpleasant consequences associated with a manic episode. If you have concerns about treatment or the side effects of medications, talk with your health professional; do not adjust the medication on your own.

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