Our physical health can have a huge effect on how we function mentally and emotionally.Research shows that Bipolar sufferers who maintain good physical health through a balanced diet and regular exercise are able to manage symptoms such as mood swings, depression, poor concentration and insomnia more effectively. Just by understanding the relationship between physical health and mental and emotional functioning, Bipolar sufferers are better equipped to manage their condition and experience more stable and positive lives. A Bipolar sufferer's physical health can greatly affect their cycle of moods. Research shows that sufferers who maintain healthy eating habits, engage in regular exercise, and are generally physically healthy report lower levels of anxiety and depression.

Ava T. Albrecht and Charles Herrick, in their book 100 Questions and Answers about Bipolar Disorder, note that one of the reasons for this is that exercise brings about changes in levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, and causes the release of endorphins and adrenaline which help to mask pain and counteract the effects of stress. Regular exercise accompanied by a healthy diet helps even-out the highs and lows experienced by Bipolar sufferers, giving them a greater sense of balance in their lives and more day-to-day control over their illness.

It's easy however, to become despondent about physical health when you feel unfit, out of condition, or overweight. And if you're feeling down as well, then motivation for exercise and a healthy lifestyle is also likely to be low. So what can you do? The answer is to begin by making simple positive changes to your daily routine. Even small amounts of exercise and healthy food can initially have a great affect on how you feel, not just physically, but also in terms of your self-esteem and how you feel about yourself. Exercise and a balanced diet increase your metabolism, which means you have more energy and greater desire to be active. As a Bipolar sufferer, investing in your physical health not only helps you manage your condition, it can also promote a healthier body image, a more positive general outlook, and a more enjoyable and satisfying life.

But physical health isn't just about regular exercise and good diet alone. It's also about maintaining good sleeping habits. Many Bipolar sufferers report sleep disturbances and insomnia, which research shows can lead to increases in stress, anxiety, depression, and general mood imbalances. Consistency is the key. Going to bed and getting up at the same time each day is the first step to sleeping better. If you can get your body clock into a routine that's conducive to a good night's sleep (through regular exercise and healthy meals), then you can maximise the effectiveness of your coping resources.

As a Bipolar sufferer, just being aware of the relationship between physical health and Bipolar means you're already in a better position to make more informed choices about diet, exercise and lifestyle. By eating healthy meals at regular intervals, exercising, being active, and getting adequate sleep you can achieve a consistent level of physical health and create a lifestyle that assists you in managing the highs and lows of Bipolar disorder.