What Helps You Cope? Tips and Tricks for Dealing with Stress

Honestly, I try to work alongside my brain and it’s cycles. When I’m feeling manic I try to get as much writing, art, cleaning, exercise, etc. as I can. Especially making phone calls, depressed me HATES talking on the phone. When I’m feeling depressed I try to listen to my needs, so, even though I’m not always interested in anything but sleep, I’ll spend my time reading, watching movies and shows, listening to music, etc. or sleeping, of course. I’ve found that taking care of my needs depending on what kind of episode I’m having helps a lot to keep my distress mild. I also communicate well with my boyfriend, who I live with, so that he can expect the apparent apathy or excessive energy, which helps me to be less nervous about upsetting him. I do work from home, which was entirely a decision made with my mental and physical illnesses in mind, but if you don’t, I know it’s not always an option, just do your best to use your free time doing what your brain and body need, even if you feel that something else (like social events and housework, but not necessarily work or school unless you have the option to do so without causing yourself trouble) is more important.

I try to make the most of my remissions and the days I feel like myself again. Lithium helps as well… and my family and friends

My family helps the most. They remind me to take my drugs and notice if I'm progressing (much before I feel that something change).