Health Tip: Living With Bipolar Disorder

By
Diana Kohnle
March 24, 2008, 12:57 AM ET
1 min read

Mar. 23 -- (HealthDay News) -- Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive illness, is characterized by extreme mood swings.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to help you cope with bipolar disorder:

  • Find out as much as you can about the disorder -- ask your doctor for good references and resources.
  • Maintain a regular routine of sleeping and waking times, mealtimes and exercise.
  • Continue to take your medications prescribed by your doctor.
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol, and don't take over-the-counter cold, allergy or cough medicines.
  • Try to reduce stress.
  • Monitor your moods, and tell your doctor when you start to notice significant changes.