Bipolar Disorder Support Group

Bipolar disorder is not just a single disorder, but a category of mood disorders marked by periods of abnormally high energy and euphoria, often accompanied by bouts of clinical depression. This is the place to talk about your experience with bipolar disorder, learn from others' experiences, and find support.

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Seeing a mania and depression?

SusanKayS
SusanKayS
A few months ago after a 45 minute session, my doc asked me if I knew how many times I had cycled while there? The answer was quite simple... none. However, the doc said no, I had actually cycled from mania to depression and back several times throughout the session. They were more manageable than my more severe episodes but it leaves me wondering...This has probably been asked before but; do you recognize your own cycling?
deleted_user
deleted_user
i didnt used to....but now I do. It comes with having bipolar for a while I suppose
deleted_user
deleted_user
i keep a daily mood diary too
SusanKayS
SusanKayS
I was diagnosed almost 20 years ago. Does keeping a diary help?
Ladybug7
Ladybug7
I am very aware of my cycling now (I'm a rapid cycler too), but I'm still working on identifying and avoiding "triggers." A mood diary is very helpful. Personally, I use both a mood chart and a diary to help identify patterns.
SusanKayS
SusanKayS
Thank you for your help. I am not sure how a mood chart works. I mean, how to use one. Could you explain?
Ladybug7
Ladybug7
There are many different kinds of mood charts. The one I use is located on the website of the drug that I am taking (Lamictal). The website is http://www.lamictal.com/bipolar/patients/mood_chart.html.
Another sample chart is located at http://www.healthyplace.com/communities/bipolar/mood_chart.asp.

In general, you simply record your moods for the day, as well as any medications you took, how much you slept, etc. The charts typically allow you to distinguish between mild, moderate, and severe depression, as well as mild, moderate, and severe mania. If you wish to document more than what the chart allows (which I sometimes do), you might want to keep a diary so you can record details about how you were feeling at particular times of the day. Hope this helps a little!
Ladybug7
Ladybug7
Wow -- the websites didn't post like I thought they would! Here they are again:

www.lamictal.com/bipolar/patients/mood_chart.html

www.healthyplace.com/communities/Bipolar/mood_chart_blank.pdf
Ladybug7
Ladybug7
OK -- I give up. : ) I hope you can figure out what I am trying to share!
dancingd
dancingd
Most of the time ,someone else has to point out my mood swing..I work with people who know my DX of BP..they help me a lot ,when I start to get manic..we have a "secret" sign they give me ,when I start talking too fast or start getting aggitated..I know it's time for me to get off the sales floor ,and go take a break.
SusanKayS
SusanKayS
Thank all of you for your sharing. I am going to do the charting and diary & see if it wont help me recognize the emotional place my body/head might be in.
dancingd
dancingd
OH,and most major bookstores,like Boaders..have mood charts you can buy there
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