An important coping strategy for managing Bipolar Disorder is to focus on goals, not on the illness itself (see Managing Recovery).

Goal setting

Personal goals are as unique as you are. Perhaps your goal is to make two new friends. Perhaps it is to become healthier and quit smoking. Whatever it is, goal-setting requires thought about personal priorities. Plus you need to make a realistic assessment of your current situation and future possibilities. Possibly a psychologist or medical professional can help with this.

You can also learn by trying different activities and by distinguishing between short term goals and long term goals.

Monitor and persist

Once goals are established, plans can be made to achieve them. Monitoring the path to achieving these goals is helpful to track progress and also to track glitches along the way. Very few goals are achieved smoothly. Be realistic, there will be setbacks but don't give up. Tools such as the mood diary can help.

For general information to help people with mental illness improve physical wellness go to: www.mindbodylife.com.au