Bipolar

Bipolar Disorder or Manic Depression is a mood disorder, and is the name given to the experience of abnormal moods or exaggerated mood swings. This illness is characterised by the experience of extremely “high” moods where one becomes extremely euphoric or elated, and the experience of extremely “low” moods where one becomes extremely sad and finds it difficult to experience pleasure. The high moods are called manic episodes and the low moods are called depressive episodes. These episodes can range from mild to severe and affect how a person thinks, feels, and acts. However, it is important to remember that some people may experience different patterns associated with their disorder. For example, some people may experience only one episode of mania but more frequent episodes of depression.

Coping with Bipolar Disorder: This information package is designed to provide you with some information about bipolar disorder and suggested strategies for how you can manage your mood.  This information package is organised into modules that are designed to be worked through in sequence.  Although it is not necessary that you complete one module before going on to the next, this is recommended.  Each module includes information, worksheets, and suggested exercises or activities.

Module 1: Overview of Bipolar Disorder

This module describes the symptoms and diagnosis of bipolar disorder. It also provides information about the causes of bipolar disorder and the stress-vulnerability model.

Module 2: Treatment Options

This module describes the treatment options for Bipolar Disorder. It provides a summary of common medication treatments and of psychosocial treatments.

Module 3: Self Monitoring for Relapse Prevention

This module describes how to monitor symptoms, how to identify early warning signs, and how to develop a plan of action to prevent future relapses.

Module 4: Behavioural Strategies for Managing and Preventing Depression

This module describes how to increase activity levels, particularly fun activities.

Module 5: Cognitive Strategies for Managing and Preventing Depression

Module 5 examines how thoughts influence feelings and explores how to use a thought diary to improve feelings associated with depression.

Module 6: Cognitive Strategies for Preventing Mania

This module explores the cognitive changes that occur in mania and how to use a balance sheet to examine unhelpful thoughts that occur during mania.

Module 7: Behavioural Strategies for Preventing Mania

Module 7 describes behavioural strategies to incorporate into early intervention plans, such as developing a weekly activity schedule, as well as organising and prioritising ideas.

Module 8: Coping with Psychosocial Stressors and Self Management
This final module describes the problem solving process and how to identify resources to cope with stressors. It also describes how to summarise the strategies learned from other modules to develop a self management plan.
Download the entire workbook

Click the link above to download all modules in this workbook at once, as a zip file.

We have a range of other resources which you may find helpful. 
  • If you are experiencing depressed mood, you may find our other resources for managing depression helpful. 
  • Having a regular sleep routine can play an important role in managing Bipolar Disorder. If you have difficulties with sleep, you might find our sleep resources helpful.

Last Updated: 24/10/2019

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