Bipolar disorder is an illness that thrives on chaos. It’s fueled by the unexpected, the changes to routine, emotional turbulence you might be carrying and so much more. I find staying stable with my bipolar disorder is basically like a full-time job. But, every time I try to give myself some kind of strict routine, I end up crashing out big time. So, today I’m sharing with you some small habits for bipolar stability that actually help me.

6 Small Habits For Bipolar Stability

Unfortunately this isn’t a fix for everyone living with bipolar disorder. I’m not a doctor and I’m only sharing some things that I have found helpful. If you’re wondering why small habits matter when you’re living with bipolar disorder, I got you. Don’t worry. Small habits can be enormously impactful when you live with bipolar disorder because rather than rigid structure that can sometimes feel hard to maintain, small habits are just a collection of little things that you’ve figured out help you.

1. Protecting sleep and keeping a consistent schedule.

I know you’re probably tired of hearing about sleep with bipolar disorder, but it really is that important. Try really hard to protect your sleep and go to bed at the same time as much as possible. If you want some more information about bipolar disorder and sleep, peek at this one: Bipolar Disorder and Overthinking.

2. Notice early warning signs.

One of the most helpful tools you can have when navigating a life with bipolar disorder is a high level of self-awareness. Take the time to really get to know yourself and be able to recognise triggers. Early warning signs can be helpful in letting you know what is going on and even what you need to do in order to remain stable.

3. Taking medication as prescribed.

This one is major when we’re talking about small habits for bipolar stability. Do whatever you need to do to be able to take your medication as prescribed. Leave yourself notes, get a pill box, set alarms on your phone, etc. 

I have a little trick when it comes to taking medication as prescribed and I shared all about it over here – Managing Bipolar Medication.

4. Eating regularly and staying hydrated.

For me this is important when it comes to my small habits for bipolar stability. I find that my mood absolutely plummets if I’m not eating regularly and staying hydrated. I keep small snacks on hand for the days where making myself a meal is completely out of the question. I also find I’m far more exhausted when my eating and drinking water aren’t consistent.

5. Moving your body without overdoing it.

I’m an intense person and thrive off of adrenaline bursts and pushing myself. But, I’ve had to learn this small habit for bipolar stability. Moving your body is what’s important and you don’t need to do it crazy every time. Find ways of moving your body that feel joyful. I’ve taken a particular liking to long walks. I like to look at the trees and see what kind of birds I can spot. This helps me to keep my body consistently moving without ending up sore or injured or even in a hypomanic amped up mood state.

6. Making time for hobbies and small joys.

This part is more important than most think but I feel it’s detrimental. Prioritise joy and work to make it normal to look for joy. Notice things. Take pictures of the things that bring you a spark of happiness. When you slow down for these things you’re slowly training your brain to know that you are worthy of these little pieces of joy. Once you start noticing joy and having time for the things that bring you joy, you’ll find it easier to point them out. (Read – The Importance of Joy)

Final thoughts

Incorporating a few small habits for bipolar stability might make more of a difference than you think! Protecting your sleep, noticing early warning signs, taking your medication as prescribed and the other few things we discussed are all small habits that truly support bipolar stability and can support you in living your best and most peaceful life. Read more: Everyday Habits That Can Help Manage Bipolar.

PS – Check out my happy mail club – Bipolar Babes Club – A Dose of Happiness