- To help you and your doctor identify your patterns of sleep, consider writing down your sleep patterns and take it with you for your next visit with the doctor.
- For general information to help people with mental illness improve physical wellness go to: www.mindbodylife.com.au
Disturbed sleep is a typical part of Bipolar Disorder. During a manic episode you may feel very little need for sleep. However during a depressive episode you may have little energy and want to rest a lot. You may also have trouble getting to sleep and wake up very early.
Regular, quality sleep is essential for good health. It affects your thinking and your physical wellbeing. Bipolar Disorder can impair insight and judgment. Insufficient or poor sleep patterns can make this worse.
There are some practical things you can do to help manage your sleep. Some hints are:
- Avoid caffeine
- Avoid alcohol
- Increase the amount of exercise you are doing
- Go to bed at the same time each day and get up at the same time
- Have a bed time routine
- Try drinking warm milk before you go to sleep
- Try relaxation tapes and techniques, including meditation
- Try to identify and address any worries which might be keeping you awake.
It is important to realise the disturbed sleep patterns are a symptom of Bipolar Disorder and if it persists for more than a few days you should see your Health Professional. If you are going through a manic or depressive episode then you are likely to need treatment for this episode.
