Create A Personal Wellness Plan

Photo by Samsung Memory on Unsplash

After years of anti-psychotic, antidepressant, and mood stabilizer medication cocktails, combined with psychotherapy, Mr. Ed, my psychologist for over 30 years, and I came to the conclusion that my faith in God, healthy interpersonal relationships, and positive life experiences probably played a more important role in controlling my bipolar disorder than the medications, though taking the prescription drugs exactly as prescribed was absolutely essential. In September 2013 I developed a personal Bipolar Management Plan to combine with my medications to improve my chances for success in dealing with this disease. In subsequent years I've modified the plan some, as needed, but for the most part I've tried to stick with the original program.

I believe that following this plan as closely as possible during my total self-isolation in the 2020 COVID-19 quarantine period, combined with taking my medications regularly as prescribed, kept me from becoming psychotic or needing any type of psychiatric intervention.

BIPOLAR MANAGEMENT PLAN September 2013 I can gradually develop coping strategies and a lifestyle that minimize my bipolar symptoms.

Lifestyle

• Maintain a regular daily schedule and routine with balance and structure (exercise, sleep, eating, work, Bible study, prayer, etc.)

• Be organized in all life situations

• Stay focused

Bipolar Monitoring

• Self-monitor (watch for potential problems and relapses)

• Ask friends to help monitor bipolar symptoms and behavior

• Always take mental health medications as prescribed

Self-Perception and Acceptance

• Build self-esteem; avoid negative self-talk

• Be determined, persistent, and patient with myself

• Learn to accept rejection

Family, Friends and Acquaintances

• Strive for peaceful and stable family relationships

• Associate with positive, loving, and supportive people

• Don’t isolate myself

Recommendations

• Don’t talk incessantly, text excessively, or send long emails

• Pursue realistic goals; know my limits; don’t take on too much

• Look forward; don’t dwell on the past

Coping Strategies

• Minimize stress; talk to professionals or trusted friends and family members

• Engage in activities, hobbies, and volunteering

• Relax, laugh, and do fun things regularly