Self-Management Strategies Used by ‘High Functioning’ Individuals with Bipolar Disorder: From Research to Clinical Practice
October 5th, 2011 by webadmin
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental condition that results in substantial costs, both at a personal and societal level. Research into bipolar disorder has been strongly influenced by the medical model and has focused mostly on pathology and dysfunction. Little research to date has focused on strategies used to maintain or regain wellness in bipolar disorder. The researchers in this study attempted to address this gap in the research. They interviewed a Canadian sample of 32 high functioning people living with bipolar disorder to explore the self-management strategies that these people used to stay well or regain their wellness. The specific self-management strategies formed six themes:
1) Sleep, rest, exercise and diet: The importance of regular sleep and adequate rest was identified as contributing to living well with bipolar disorder, as well as engaging in regular enjoyable exercise. Attention to a healthy diet was emphasized, as was the moderate use of caffeine, sugar, alcohol, and other drugs.
2) Ongoing monitoring: Participants emphasized the active process of taking responsibility for their wellness by paying close attention to moods and modifying activity levels as necessary.
3) Reflective and meditative practices: Many activities were helpful including Tai Chi, yoga, meditation, journaling, inspirational reading and exploring spirituality and praying.
4) Understanding bipolar disorder and educating others: Participants actively educated themselves via books (e.g., texts and personal narratives), newsletters, internet resources such as self-help websites, and support groups. They also shared this information with supportive friends and family.
5) Connecting with others: Connecting with professionals, friends, and family was helpful in maintaining stability.
6) Enacting a plan: This involved the development of a plan that outlined the individual’s triggers and warning signs, as well as instructions for their care in case of relapse.
These findings serve to remind healthcare practitioners that individual clients have unique ways of understanding and applying the wellness strategies. This study also, importantly, offers hope to practitioners and their clients because it indicates that positive well-being strategies can be effective, even for people who have experienced more severe forms of bipolar disorder.
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