Symptoms
Name one symptom of mania
Decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, increased energy, impulsive behavior, talking more than usual, grandiose ideas.
True or False – Therapy can be part of treatment.
True, therapy is often an important part of treatment. How do you think therapy can be used as an important part of treatment?
Myth or Fact – People with bipolar disorder are always “up” or “down” with no in-between.
Myth. People with bipolar disorder can have stable periods between episodes.
Name one relaxation technique.
Deep breathing, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation.
Name one healthy morning routine habit.
Eating breakfast, stretching, reviewing schedule, taking medications.
Name one symptom of depression in bipolar disorder.
Sadness, hopelessness, low energy, changes in sleep or appetite, trouble concentrating, loss of interest in activities.
What type of medication is often prescribed for bipolar disorder?
Mood stabilizers, such as lithium, or certain anticonvulsants and antipsychotics.
Myth or Fact – Bipolar disorder can be cured permanently.
Myth. There is no known permanent cure, but symptoms can be managed effectively.
Name one creative coping activity.
Drawing, painting, coloring, crafting, writing, playing music.
Name one way to stay organized with appointments or meds.
Using a calendar, phone reminders, or a pill organizer.
How long do manic episodes usually last?
A manic episode usually lasts at least one week, unless hospitalization is needed.
Name one lifestyle change that can help manage bipolar disorder.
Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, reducing stress, regular exercise, healthy diet, avoiding drugs/alcohol.
Myth or Fact – People with bipolar disorder can live productive, successful lives.
Fact. With treatment and support, people with bipolar disorder can live full, successful lives.
Name one way to ask for help when struggling.
Tell a trusted friend/family member, speak to a counselor, call a crisis line.
What’s one way to track your mood?
Keeping a mood journal or using a mood tracking app.
What is hypomania?
A milder form of mania that lasts at least 4 consecutive days and is less severe but still noticeable.
Name one reason medication might be adjusted.
If symptoms worsen, side effects appear, or medication stops working effectively.
Myth or Fact – Bipolar disorder affects everyone the same way.
Myth. Symptoms, episode frequency, and severity can vary greatly between individuals. Some people have frequent mood episodes, while others may have long periods of stability. Treatment plans are highly individualized.
Name a grounding technique that can be used to help manage bipolar disorder.
5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique, mindfulness, mindful deep breathing, meditation, self reflection.
Name one tip for getting quality sleep.
Going to bed/waking up at the same time, creating a calming bedtime routine, practicing meditation before bed, listening to calm music before bed, limiting caffeine and take before bed.
What’s one possible trigger for a mood episode?
Common triggers include lack of sleep, stress, substance use, major life changes, or stopping medication
Name one therapy approach that can help with bipolar.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), Family-Focused Therapy, or psychoeducation.
Myth or Fact – Only adults can have bipolar disorder.
Myth. Bipolar disorder can occur in children, teens, and adults.
Name one way to plan ahead for stressful events to help decrease stress in bipolar disorder.
Writing down a list coping skills, schedule a routine, keeping a sleep routine, limiting caffeine before bed, practice positive self talk.
Name one way to maintain healthy relationships.
Communicating openly, setting healthy boundaries, scheduling quality time.