More than one million people (including myself) are living with bipolar in the UK and, despite the summer meaning excitement and positivity for most, for many living with bipolar this is not always the case.
Common challenges in summer can impact people living with the condition- including high temperatures which can interfere with certain medications (including Lithium and anti psychotics or anti depressants), the longer daylight hours which can disrupt mood stability, and travelling which can sometimes trigger symptoms.
There are ways to manage seasonal challenges, and Bipolar UK is now sharing its top tips to help people navigate the summer months!
Top tips for navigating the next few summer months if you have bipolar from Bipolar UK:
Sleep
Maintaining a regular sleep routine is an important way to support mood stability. Lighter nights can make it more difficult to switch off and wind down; and early sunrises can cause disruptions to sleep. Blackout curtains or an eye mask might help.
Heat
Hot weather can affect both physical and mental wellbeing. Certain medications used to treat bipolar can make it harder for the body to regulate its own temperature, leading to overheating. Staying cool, drinking plenty of water and staying out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day can help reduce the risk of overheating and becoming dehydrated. Rest is important so communicate with friends and family about how you’re feeling and if you need to rearrange plans.
Travel
Be mindful when travelling to different time zones. Jetlag can have an impact on bipolar symptoms. Try to make time to sleep and rest whilst on the plane and when you arrive so you can acclimatise. Set a reminder on your phone of when you need to take your medication so you can stick to your schedule.
Sensitivity
Some bipolar medications can increase sensitivity to sunlight so protecting your skin with a high factor suncream when outside is important, as well as seeking shade when possible. Continue to take your medication as prescribed but do speak to your medical professional if you have any concerns.
Socialising
There are often more social activities during the summer, with people wanting to make the most of the better weather. If it all feels too much, learn to say “no” and preserve your energy. Pick and choose which activities you’d like to do, but don’t feel obliged to do them all.
Routine
Longer days can lead to changes in routine which can trigger shifts in mood. Some people with bipolar feel their mood can shift more easily into hypomania and mania during the summer months, whereas others notice their mood dips into depression. Noticing the signs early and speaking to your mental health team, family or other support network can ensure you get help when you need it and potentially avoid a relapse.
A dual diagnosis occurs when an individual simultaneously struggles with a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. Far more common than many realise, dual diagnoses can involve combinations such as depression and alcohol dependence, anxiety and benzodiazepine misuse, bipolar disorder coupled with stimulant abuse, or PTSD alongside opioid addiction. Attempting to treat one condition in isolation while neglecting the other typically leads to inadequate results and higher relapse rates. Dual-diagnosis care addresses both issues in tandem, recognising the complex interplay between mental health and addiction. Below, we explore five essential components of an effective, integrated treatment approach that fosters sustainable recovery.
Understanding the Link Between Mental Health and Addiction
Self-medication is a common pathway to substance misuse: someone experiencing chronic anxiety may reach for alcohol to calm racing thoughts, while an individual with untreated depression might use opioids to numb emotional pain. Unfortunately, what begins as short-term relief often worsens underlying psychiatric symptoms. Alcohol, for example, disrupts sleep and brain chemistry, intensifying anxiety or depression over time. Conversely, the guilt, shame, and isolation that emerge from addiction can spark or aggravate mood disorders.
Recognising this bidirectional relationship is critical in dual-diagnosis care. Clinicians assess not only which substance came first, but also how each condition fuels the other. By identifying triggers—whether social stressors, traumatic memories, or genetic vulnerabilities—therapists can help patients develop healthier coping strategies. Early psychoeducation enables individuals to see how their mental health and addiction are intertwined, fostering motivation to engage in comprehensive treatment.
Comprehensive Assessments for Accurate Diagnosis
Misdiagnosis is rampant in dual-diagnosis cases: withdrawal symptoms can mask depression, and manic episodes may be mistaken for cocaine highs. To avoid these pitfalls, providers conduct thorough biopsychosocial evaluations that delve into psychiatric history, substance use patterns, family dynamics, medical background, and co-occurring health issues. Standardised screening tools—such as the PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, CAGE for alcohol misuse, and the Addiction Severity Index—offer structured insights that guide diagnostic clarity.
Laboratory tests and, when indicated, neuroimaging can reveal medical complications—like liver dysfunction in heavy drinkers or neurochemical imbalances in long-term stimulant users. Ongoing assessments throughout treatment help clinicians monitor progress, adjust medication, and refine therapy goals. An accurate, layered diagnosis ensures that neither the mental health disorder nor the addiction is minimized, laying the groundwork for a cohesive care plan.
The Role of Integrated Treatment Plans
Unlike traditional models that silo psychiatric care and addiction treatment, integrated plans bring multidisciplinary teams together. Psychiatrists, addiction medicine specialists, psychologists, social workers, and certified peer support counsellors collaborate on a unified treatment blueprint. Core elements may include:
Medication management to stabilise mood disorders and reduce cravings (for instance, SSRIs for depression and buprenorphine for opioid dependency)
Evidence-based psychotherapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused interventions for PTSD
Group therapy sessions that address both substance use behaviours and coping skills for anxiety or mood regulation
Family therapy and psychoeducation to repair relationships and build a supportive home environment
Holistic modalities—mindfulness training, yoga, nutritional counseling—aimed at restoring overall well-being
Coordinated care prevents mixed messages and redundant treatments. When each provider shares a common set of goals and progress metrics, patients receive consistent guidance, and their support network remains informed and engaged.
(image: Alysha Rosly, Unsplash)
Flexible Care Through Programs Like the Intensive Outpatient Program
Not everyone with a dual diagnosis needs round-the-clock residential care. For those with strong support systems, manageable symptom severity, and stable living conditions, outpatient solutions can strike the right balance. A reputable intensive outpatient treatment program offers structured therapy multiple times per week, while allowing individuals to live at home and maintain work or family responsibilities.
These programs typically include group counselling, individual therapy, psychiatric check-ins, and relapse prevention workshops. They serve as a transitional step either before entering less intensive outpatient care or following discharge from an inpatient facility. Flexible scheduling and a mix of virtual and in-person sessions accommodate diverse lifestyles, enabling more people to access high-quality dual-diagnosis treatment without uprooting their lives. In the UK, these were known as ADTU units attached to hospitals, but there are less of these on the NHS.
The Importance of Ongoing Support and Aftercare
Recovery from a dual diagnosis doesn’t end when formal treatment ends. Long-term success hinges on robust aftercare and relapse prevention strategies that recognize recovery as a lifelong process. Essential components of sustained support include:
Peer support groups—such as Dual Recovery Anonymous or integrated 12-step fellowships—that offer lived-experience encouragement
Regular outpatient counselling or case management to address emerging challenges and adjust treatment plans
Medication-assisted maintenance, when appropriate, to stabilise chronic mental health conditions and prevent relapse
Life-skills workshops for stress management, financial planning, and vocational training to strengthen daily functioning
Digital tools and telehealth check-ins that enhance accessibility, especially for those in remote areas
Family involvement remains vital: ongoing family therapy sessions and education empower loved ones to recognize early warning signs and respond effectively. Community resources—like sober living homes and recreational recovery programs—further enrich social support, reducing isolation and reinforcing positive lifestyle choices.
Conclusion
Effective dual-diagnosis care transcends the simplistic view of treating mental illness and addiction separately. By acknowledging their deep interconnection, clinicians can offer comprehensive assessments, integrated treatment plans, flexible program options, and enduring aftercare. Whether delivered through residential facilities or outpatient settings, these five components—link recognition, accurate diagnosis, collaborative treatment, adaptable program structures, and sustained support—equip individuals with the skills and stability needed for lasting recovery. Embracing a holistic, patient-centered approach that addresses the whole person, not just isolated symptoms, paves the way for renewed health, purpose, and hope.
This article was written by Elizabeth (Lizzie) Howard, writer and contains a sponsored link.
You need daily habits in your life for mental clarity; these daily habits are often vital for wellbeing. Sometimes your mental health might take a dip, you might feel drained, depressed or feeling like you are left behind and cannot keep up. Here are some daily habits that can help to boost your mental health:
Practice Morning Mindfulness
Mindfulness can include simple tasks such as starting off the day on a positive note and setting good intentions by writing or speaking affirmations or engaging in prayer. Every day after you get up, you should make your bed as this is a small exercise that will only take two minutes of your day and prepare for a good day. As soon as you get up, do some simple, mindful stretches like swinging your arms in circles or doing the cobra pose to prepare your body for a focused day quickly.
Move Your Body
You should move your body and avoid sitting in one place, as moving around ensures that blood flows to your brain better and faster, providing it with oxygen, and activities like taking a stroll, especially early morning strolls when the weather is nice and there is calm in the air, are also good for you. You can breathe in fresh air and it makes you look at things from a new perspective. So, take morning or lunchtime walks so you may be prepared for the day. You can also do activities like yoga which boosts mindfulness and helps you get mental clarity. It can also calm your mood, and you can also do cardio workouts like cycling and running to give your brain the pump of blood it needs and help you think more clearly and better.
Fuel Your Brain
If you want your brain to think clearly, you must provide it with the right type of nutrients, too. You should make a list of foods that are good for your mental health and incorporate them into your daily routine. You can have fruits and vegetables, healthy carbs and proteins as your brain cells need nourishment to think better, too! You should also drink water and get yourself hydrated, as water makes your blood move around the body faster, wakes up your brain, and increases brain function. Also, you can take supplements like chlorella, a high protein plant. Some chlorella benefits include detoxification and improved focus, which are good for mental clarity.
Journalling for Emotional Release
There are some activities, like journalling, that you can do at the end of the day to let go of any stress that your body has. You can write about the things that went wrong in the day and what went well. Take your time to reflect on things so you do not end up overthinking things and overstimulating your brain. You should have a journal by your bed so if you feel like some unprocessed thoughts are coming to you, you can vent them out in your journal, which should help your mental health.
Sleep Better
Establish a bedtime routine for yourself that is unique to you so that you can look forward to it every night, and it helps you sleep better. You can read a book, lower the brightness of the lights in your room, and have decaffeinated tea or water. You should also avoid screens before going to bed, the LED light is not good for your eyes and does not let you sleep well. The use of screens has proven to have a strong link with less sleep time and delayed sleep.
Daily activities for your mental health require you to be consistent and true to yourself if you really want to see the results.. So, start with something small like making your bed and practicing mindfulness and then keep on adding some activities to your routine so by the end of a few days, you meet with a better, improved version of yourself, one with a clear mind and better health.
Modern life surrounds us with easy dopamine triggers: sweetened coffee on every corner, endless scrolls of video, nicotine vapes disguised as fashion accessories. My research career has shown me that these cues are not merely temptations; they are biological signals that reshape metabolism, immunity, and even cancer risk. In my book, Crave: The Hidden Biology of Addiction and Cancer, I set out to explain why.
Why cravings feel hard wired
Craving evolved as a survival mechanism. In the brain, the mesolimbic pathway flags calorie dense fruit, social bonding, or safety as worth seeking. That same circuitry now lights up for ultraprocessed snacks and late night streaming. Functional MRI studies reveal identical patterns of dopaminergic surge whether volunteers anticipate nicotine or a sugary drink, and chronic exposure dulls the reward system’s sensitivity. Over time, people need stronger stimuli for the same lift, a neuroadaptation called tolerance. My laboratory group has observed that tolerance often precedes measurable changes in inflammatory biomarkers that predict cancer progression.
From appetite to oncology
The epidemiology is startling. Meta analyses link daily sugary beverage intake with elevated colorectal cancer incidence, independent of body mass. Tobacco remains the most potent modifiable carcinogen worldwide, yet nicotine pouches marketed as “clean alternatives” still activate . Adults who replace smoking with high sugar snacks trade one risk for another; insulin spikes feed oncogenic pathways. Craving is the bridge that explains these patterns.
Listening instead of suppressing
A central message of the book is that craving is not a moral failing. It is feedback. By tuning into the signal, by asking why a craving appears rather than fighting it, we can leverage biology rather than battle it. For example, a brief walk that raises heart rate for ten minutes stimulates endocannabinoids that naturally quell appetite and elevate mood. Clinical trials suggest that this micro intervention yields sharper cognitive performance than an afternoon energy drink.
Sugar Cravings and Mental Health
Craving for sugar sits at the crossroads of addiction science and mental health because sucrose triggers the same dopamine opioid cascade in the brain that reinforces nicotine and alcohol, yet the rapid glucose spikes that follow can crash into irritability and low mood, creating a loop that feels compulsive rather than indulgent.
Evidence based tools break this loop: cognitive behavioural therapy teaches people to notice the stress cue that precedes a sugar hunt, mindfulness based relapse prevention strengthens the ability to ride out urges, nutrition counselling pairs slow digesting carbohydrates with protein to steady blood glucose, and peer groups such as SMART Recovery provide social accountability when willpower fades.
Small pivots, measurable gains
Patients who swap sugary breakfasts for fiber rich protein report fewer mid morning crashes within three weeks. Continuous glucose monitoring confirms smoother glycemic curves, and inflammatory markers such as CRP trend downward after eight weeks. Similar improvements follow digital media fasts that compress social scrolling into defined windows, freeing cognitive bandwidth and reducing late night cortisol spikes that impair immune surveillance.
Practical first steps
There exist a number of science grounded experiments readers can try: hydrate before caffeine to blunt adrenal overstimulation, pair resistance exercise with a protein rich meal to modulate leptin, schedule technology free evenings to restore natural melatonin rhythms. Track how your body responds, adjust, repeat. The data you gather on yourself becomes a personalised research study with real health dividends.
Final thought
Our ancestors survived by responding to biological urges; we thrive today by understanding them. Crave offers a map from reflexive consumption to intentional living, informed by years of bench science, clinical trials, and population studies. My hope is that readers finish the book feeling empowered to decode their own signals, rewrite their relationship with desire, and protect long term health in the process.
If that resonates, I invite you to explore the full story within the pages of Crave and share your experiences. Let curiosity, not discipline alone, guide your next step. To get your copy of Crave, please see the following link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F8YVNB2S
With everything going on in the world today, some stories can get missed in the flurry of competing news. However, when I saw a post by the Oli Leigh Trust, a charity in my community dedicated to suicide prevention, that suicide prevention lessons are going to be made compulsory in secondary schools, I was so happy. Department for Education (DfE) announced on Tuesday that lessons discussing suicide prevention would be compulsory in secondary schools from September 2026.
Growing up, when I had my own issues with depression and suicidal ideation as part of my bipolar disorder, mental health was not spoken about openly in schools. We know that sadly, the suicide rate in the UK and worldwide has been rising. A group of Dads, Andy Airey, Mike Palmer and Tim Owen, 3 Dads Walking, who lost their daughters Sophie, Beth and Emily to suicide came together to campaign to Sir Keir Starmer and the UK government. Heres what they told the BBC,
‘Lives will be saved. Our Voices have finally been heard. ‘ He said the trio began campaigning shortly after their first walk to raise awareness in 2021 and admitted it had at times felt “like we were swimming through treacle uphill”, but now their “voices have been heard”.
“We have covered a lot of ground, literally and figuratively, over the last few years, but to come to a point where a significant change is going to happen still feels quite unreal. I’m stunned.”
“We are really proud of what we have achieved.”
Suicide is the biggest killer of under 35’s in the UK. In their first walk, they raised nearly 1 million pounds for Papyrus charity. In their second, they walked to all 4 UK parliaments to ensure every child was taught the skills to cope with suicidal thoughts. They then met with MPs to discuss how suicide prevention could be embedded in the curriculum.
“If this is the biggest killer of our young people, why aren’t we talking about it?”
So today I say thank you and congratulations to Andy Airey, Mike Palmer and Tim Owen- three courageous men spreading light and goodness in memory of their beloved daughters. Suicide prevention is so sadly needed.
If you’re reading this, you likely know what it’s like to care deeply for others – whether as a nurse, paramedic, therapist, social worker, or in one of the many roles that keep our communities going. But here’s something we don’t say out loud enough: caring for others can quietly take its toll on our own wellbeing, especially when it comes to health anxiety.
The Hidden Weight of Health Anxiety in Caring Professions
Caring professionals are often assumed to be unshakeable in a crisis – the calm in the storm, the voice of reason when others are spiralling. But what happens when your own mind starts to race? When a fleeting ache becomes a late-night Google search, and that spirals into a restless night? Or when the stories you hear at work bleed into fears about your own health or loved ones?
Health anxiety isn’t “just worrying” or “hypochondria.” It’s a very real, common challenge for those who look after others. NHS surveys found 76% of staff experienced a mental health issue last year, with over half reporting anxiety. We absorb others’ pain and witness uncertainty, sometimes internalising that anxiety until it shapes our own thoughts and behaviours.
Why Caring Professionals Are Prone to Health Anxiety
Caring roles put us face-to-face with illness, unpredictability, and loss. We’re trained to scan for problems – a strength that can turn inward, fuelling cycles of health anxiety. Many of us are also experts at minimising our own needs. My clients (and yes, I’ve been there myself) often struggle to switch off “helper mode” and create space for their own wellbeing. No wonder health anxiety can creep in.
Recognising the Signs
Health anxiety can show up in subtle – and not-so-subtle – ways:
– Excessive checking: Monitoring your body for symptoms, repeatedly seeking reassurance, or going down “Dr Google” rabbit holes. – Preoccupation: Struggling to focus on anything but health worries, even outside work. – Avoidance: Steering clear of situations or tasks for fear of illness. – Physical symptoms: Real sensations (like palpitations, headaches, or stomach issues) that reinforce anxious thoughts. – Sleep disturbance: Lying awake, unable to switch off your mind.
My Integrative Approach: You’re Not Alone
As a therapist specialising in anxiety, stress, and burnout among caring professionals, I understand the unique pressures you face – not just as a therapist, but as someone who’s walked in your shoes. At Ardolino Counselling, my approach combines: – CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy): We map the cycle of anxious thoughts and behaviours, learning practical ways to break free from unhelpful patterns. CBT helps you question catastrophic thinking and gently test healthier beliefs. – ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy): We work on making space for uncertainty, learning to “unhook” from distressing thoughts, and focusing on what really matters – without trying to eliminate anxiety altogether. – Person-centred therapy: All our work is grounded in compassion, empathy, and respect for your unique story and strengths.
It’s not about “fixing” you – it’s about working together so you can keep doing the work you care about, without being overwhelmed.
Image: Unsplash: Tim Mossholder)
Practical Tips: Coping Day-to-Day
1. Challenge Catastrophic Thinking When a health worry pops up, pause and ask: “What’s the evidence for this thought? Am I assuming the worst?” Label these as “catastrophic thoughts,” and consider: “What’s a more balanced or likely explanation?” Notice how believable the new thought feels and how you might behave differently if you believed it.
2. Ground Yourself in the Present When anxiety spirals, try grounding techniques like box breathing or the “5-4-3-2-1” exercise: name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This anchors you in the here and now.
3. Limit Reassurance and ‘Dr Google’ Notice when you’re seeking reassurance – asking colleagues, Googling symptoms, or scanning your body. Set gentle limits on these habits, reminding yourself: “Uncertainty is uncomfortable, but I can handle it.” Reducing reassurance-seeking helps break the anxiety cycle.
4. Set Boundaries to Protect Your Energy Give yourself permission to say no, or to step back from work worries outside your shift. Small routines – like a walk after work or a tech-free hour – help reinforce this boundary and support your wellbeing. 5. Reach Out for Support If anxiety persists, talking things through with a trusted friend, colleague, or therapist can give you perspective and relief. You don’t have to manage it alone.
When to Reach Out
Everyone experiences worry sometimes. But it’s worth seeking help if:
– Health anxiety is interfering with your work, relationships, or daily life. – You’re finding it hard to “switch off,” even away from work. – You’re avoiding situations or tasks because of health fears. – Your anxiety is getting worse, not better, over time.
Mental health struggles are common and nothing to be ashamed of. Reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a step towards regaining balance and resilience. Many caring professionals find that talking to someone outside their immediate work circle helps them process fears and develop healthier ways of coping.
Ready for Real Change?
If health anxiety is making it harder to do the job you love, you deserve support tailored to you as a caring professional. At Ardolino Counselling, I offer a free, no-pressure 15-minute consultation to see if therapy feels right for you. Sessions are available UK-wide (online or in Barry, South Wales) with flexible scheduling, including Fridays, evenings, and weekends.
Special Blue Light Card Offer: Blue Light Card holders receive 50% off their first 8 sessions. Block bookings are also available for added savings.
You give so much care and skill to others. Let’s make sure you get the same support in return.
Last week, acclaimed chef, restauranteur and mental health advocate, Heston Blumenthal OBE starred in the BBC documentary ‘Heston: My Life with Bipolar’ which explored his fairly recent bipolar disorder diagnosis. Heston subsequently became an ambassador for national charity Bipolar UK, and has been actively supporting the charity’s mission to help reduce the average 9.5 year delay to diagnosis and end the stigma surrounding the condition.
In 2023, Heston began experiencing both depressive and manic episodes, hearing voices and seeing hallucinations, as well as depression with suicidal thoughts. Mania can also cause you to have intense creativity, speak faster and not listen to others as well as causing delusions and psychosis. Heston’s wife Melanie could see that his health was deteriorating rapidly and that he was a danger to himself. Despite the trauma of sectioning and hospitalisation, this set Heston on the path of not only a bipolar diagnosis, but medicine, therapy and ongoing treatment to help him live a healthy and happy life again.
Heston said to Bipolar UK, “I was living with undiagnosed bipolar for many years, so it’s been an extraordinary journey to get where I am today, and I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to talk to others living with the condition and find out more about their experiences.
“There is still a lot of stigma regarding bipolar, and mental health support is still lacking, but it is vital to be able to talk openly about the condition. I know this isn’t always easy, but I hope by sharing my experience, people will gain a greater understanding of bipolar and an insight into how I’m managing it.”
The documentary was extremely powerful to watch and sad in places, but inspiring. As someone who faced a similar situation to Heston in terms of a manic episode with psychosis/delusions that led to being sedated, sectioned by psychiatrists and hospitalised, my heart went out to him as I know how traumatising this can be. I found the needle being shown as a reenactment for sedation quite challenging to watch! However, the documentary was more than just showing what happened to Heston, who didn’t know he had bipolar til 2023, when he was in his 50s.
I found the discussion that Heston had with his son Jack, about how he was during a manic episode to be really enlightening. A lot of children of parents with bipolar find it challenging when their parents personality is almost hijacked by the episodes. Mania can lead to quickened speech, manic and grandiose ideas, lack of sleep and risky behaviour. You could see how much love Heston and Jack had for each other and how special is family is to support him through this and appear on camera. This includes his wife Melanie, who has been Heston’s rock!
The documentary ended with Heston visiting the mother of Rebecca McLellan, a young woman with bipolar who died by suicide due to neglect from mental health services. Rebecca had raised the alarm with the crisis team at her local hospital various times but was not treated with respect and dignity. The pressure of her illness and lack of support led her to take her own life.
Heston wants to highlight the suicide risk that bipolar brings and how much more mental health support is needed from the government. He is now working as an ambassador with Bipolar UK to raise awareness. Bipolar UK is on a mission to ensure people with bipolar get a quicker diagnosis so they can access effective treatment, support, and self-management, enabling them to live well and fulfil their potential.
Simon Kitchen, Bipolar UK CEO, added: “Heston is such an incredible ambassador for everyone in the UK living with, or affected by, bipolar. We could not be prouder to be working with him. His willingness to be so vulnerable on camera and to share such personal details about his experiences has resonated with many people in our community – and will help people who don’t know much about bipolar to begin to understand this complex and much-misunderstood condition. Heston is living proof that despite the sometimes severe and fluctuating nature of the condition, living with bipolar should not be a barrier to following your ambitions”
As one of the million people in the UK living with bipolar, I know how much more funding is needed in the NHS and a new bipolar pathway with more mental health support needs to be set up. Early prevention and support is key to stop bipolar escalating into suicide or mania.
Although it was a very personal watch for me, due to having been diagnosed with bipolar since aged 16 and my Dad having bipolar too, I thought that Heston’s documentary was so inspiring. He has only been living with the condition for two years and is using his platform for the good. Heston is now on Lithium medication to stabilise his moods as well as an anti psychotic medication.
Bipolar UK say that according to the stats, someone with bipolar takes their own life every day. Hopefully Heston’s documentary will act as a reminder and catalyst to our government to begin change. Thank you Heston and Melanie for being vulnerable and sharing your important story.
(image: Bipolar UK)
Heston: Life with Bipolar is out now on BBC Iplayer.
Living with bipolar disorder can often feel like your emotions are swinging between two extremes. The highs (mania) can be energising but risky, and the lows (depression) can be draining and isolating. As a doctor, I’ve worked with many patients who face this condition—and I’ve seen firsthand how the right tools, treatments, and habits can lead to a more stable and fulfilling life.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition marked by episodes of depression and mania or hypomania. These mood shifts can affect how a person thinks, feels, and acts. It’s more than just having a bad day or being in a good mood—it can seriously impact relationships, work, and daily functioning.
According to the World Health Organisation, bipolar disorder is one of the top causes of disability for people between 15 and 44 years old.
Medications: The Backbone of Treatment
Most people with bipolar disorder need medication to help manage their symptoms. Lithium, for example, has been used for decades and is one of the most reliable treatments to prevent manic episodes and reduce the risk of suicide. Other options include other mood stabilisers and certain antipsychotic medications.
It’s really important to stick with your medication plan. Stopping suddenly—even if you feel better—can cause serious setbacks. Never adjust or stop medications without medical supervision—even if you’re feeling better, as this significantly increases the risk of relapse, especially into mania. If you have side effects, don’t stop on your own—talk to your doctor about switching or adjusting your dose.
How Therapy Helps
Therapy can help you understand your thoughts, manage emotions, and build better habits. One helpful option is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). It teaches people to recognise unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with healthier ones. CBT is especially useful for managing depression and maintaining stability between episodes, though it is less effective during manic phases.
Another type of therapy, called Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), focuses on keeping your daily schedule steady—especially your sleep and social routines. Why does this matter? Because disruptions to your daily rhythm can trigger mood episodes.
Family-focused therapy also makes a big difference. When your loved ones understand your condition and know how to respond, you’re more likely to stay on track. If you face trauma around your condition, then EMDR therapy can also help with any PTSD or anxiety symptoms.
These therapies don’t replace medication, but they add valuable tools for coping, improving communication, and building resilience.
Everyday Habits That Make a Difference
Beyond medication and therapy, lifestyle habits have a huge effect on mood. Here are a few evidence-based strategies:
Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time helps stabilize your mood.
Get moving. Exercise—even walking—has been shown to lift mood and reduce stress.
Eat well. Omega-3 fats (like those found in fish or flaxseed) may support brain health. While the evidence is mixed, some studies suggest they could help support mood as part of a healthy diet.
Manage stress. Mindfulness, breathing exercises, or journaling can help you stay grounded.
Avoid alcohol and drugs. These can interfere with treatment and trigger episodes.
It’s worth remembering that lifestyle changes work best alongside—not in place of—medication and therapy. These small, daily actions help support long-term stability and overall well-being.
Pay Attention to Early Warning Signs
Everyone’s symptoms are different, but common early signs of mania include less need for sleep, racing thoughts, and impulsive decisions. Signs of depression may include feeling hopeless, withdrawing from others, or sleeping too much.
Keeping a mood diary or using an app can help track how you’re doing. You might also ask a trusted friend or family member to gently point out changes you might not notice.
Build a Strong Support System
Having a support system—whether friends, family, or a support group—makes a real difference. Research shows that people with strong social support tend to manage bipolar disorder better and have fewer hospitalisations.
It also helps when your loved ones are informed and involved. When people understand what you’re going through, it’s easier for them to support you in ways that actually help.
Final Thoughts
Living with bipolar disorder isn’t easy, but it’s manageable. With the right treatment, daily routines, emotional awareness, and a good support network, it’s absolutely possible to live a meaningful and empowered life.
You are more than your diagnosis. And there are tools—backed by science—that can help you thrive.
About the Author
Dr. Antti Rintanen is a licensed physician from Finland and founder of The Internet Doctor, where he shares reliable, accessible health advice. He writes about both physical and mental well-being with a focus on evidence-based care.
New data has revealed that there has been a rise in interest in mental health advice for those working from home, with searches in England jumping up by 63% in the past year.
With over two-fifths (42%) of remote workers feeling that working from home has had negative impacts on their mental wellbeing, the experts at Choose Leisurewanted to share that there has been a stark interest in mental health support across the UK.
Dr. Hana Patel, NHS GP and GP Medico-Legal Expert Witness commented:
“Working remotely, or from home, can have lots of benefits but it can also be isolating and have a big impact on our mental health. Often, it might be difficult to manage boundaries when being out of the office environment, so here are some tips that can help maintain well-being” :
Highlight of the day – “Each day, try to find one small thing you can take pride in or appreciate. You might find it helpful to create a list at the start of each day, and tick off everything you’ve done at the end.”
Lunch self-care – “Make sure you take at least a 30-minute lunch break and eat in a different room from where you work. If you can, try to get some fresh air and go for a short walk.”
Prep your tech –“Set up a ‘work’ and ‘personal’ login for your laptop, so that you can differentiate between the two – you could even use different screensavers and backgrounds to make the difference clear.”
Meeting environment – “Distinguish between proper meetings and informal chats with your colleagues – if possible, designate different spaces for formal and informal conversations to help set boundaries.
Fresh air, fresh mind – “Go for a walk as soon as you finish – this can act as a fake ‘commute’, and make it feel like you’re coming home after the working day has finished.”
Prioritise breaks – “It’s easy to work longer hours and take fewer breaks when working remotely. Put a reminder in your diary for when you plan to finish working.”
(image: Mikey Harris: Unsplash)
Beyond mental health tips for remote workers, national search trends also reflect the growing concern for work wellbeing.
Choose Leisure utilised search engine analysis to reveal a spike in searches for ‘work from home health’, ‘WFH mental health’, ‘WFH wellbeing’, ‘WFH wellbeing tips’ and 1,446 related keywords.
Nationally, England has been recognised as the country with the largest rise in working from home mental health concerns in the UK, based on online searches.
In 2022, the terms were searched an average of 79,720 times a month, but this rocketed to 129,950 in 2024 – that’s a 63% surge! Scotland came second with a 36% uplift, followed by Wales and Northern Ireland with 35% and 12%.
Searches for WFH Mental Health keywords
Location
2022
2024
% Change
England
79,720
129,950
63%
Scotland
9,690
13,220
36%
Wales
6,880
9,310
35%
Northern Ireland
6,090
6,800
12%
Donna Bicker from Choose Leisure, who conducted the research said:
“It’s important for remote workers to understand they are not confined to four walls, their home office or any space you use for daily work.
“Working from home is designed to foster flexibility and improve work-life balance. With mental health concerns on the rise in the UK, finding an ideal workspace—whether at home, in a café, or even travelling in a motorhome—can be essential for improved mental well-being and productivity.”
This non sponsored blog was written by Choose Leisure.
On a regular basis, I speak to people who are set to benefit from hypnotherapy: they have a compelling need to make those changes in their lives, they take responsibility for the outcome and, they’re looking forward to enjoying the benefits. Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is an effective, modern, evidence-based talking therapy. It is designed to support you in making positive changes leading to your sustained wellbeing.
Often, people get a bit stuck when looking for a therapist as they try to find the right therapist for them at that time.
So, what makes a hypnotherapist the right hypnotherapist for you at the moment?
The over-riding factor is your gut instinct: rapport between therapist and client is so important in achieving the best outcomes for wellbeing. What are your feelings as you look through their website and speak to them?
Beyond that, consider the following – any credible hypnotherapist would be happy to confirm the below.
Make sure you consider these when speaking to a hypnotherapist for your mental health:
They are open about what certifications they have, from where and what continuous professional development they do. Remember that the term ‘diploma’ is, in itself, meaningless. The key things to look for when assessing a certification are how much work did it take to obtain, who accredited it and what competence does the accreditor have?
That they are required to undertake a level of continuous professional development.
They are members of recognised professional governing bodies. There are many of these – The key thing to look for is the organisation’s affiliation with the National Council for Hypnotherapy and / or the Complimentary and Natural Health Care Council. Nb – this holds true for the UK. Other countries – especially the USA – have their own arrangements.
That they have Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII). This is not to expect anything to go wrong but it does give a degree of assurance as to the quality of their qualifications. Each broker offering PII to hypnotherapists has a list of certifications they accept as being suitable – and they are very shrewd about who they insure.
They have lived-experience of the issues you have chosen to resolve. Nb – there is no right or wrong with this one. You will find therapists who both agree and disagree with this point.
They are clear about their overall balance between therapy and hypnosis.
They allow you to set your own goals and they work to your (rather than their) agenda.
They encourage and support you to become proficient in self-hypnosis and managing your wellbeing for the long term.
They are happy to share content, resources, and references with you to give a deeper understanding of what they, and you, are doing.
They focus on you achieving your goals efficiently – there are no signs of them spinning things out for extra sessions.
(image: Marcel Straub, Unsplash)
Ready to break free?
The author Kevin Whitelaw helps adults across the globe overcome anxiety, stress, and self-doubt using Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. Book your free consultation today.
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