I have not always been able to identify a specific event which immediately preceded my bipolar disorder manic episodes, as many times they start as a heightened awareness with increased energy and a euphoric feeling. I think that the episodes are a response to a buildup of stress over time and that the increased energy and awareness are meant to enable us to combat that which causes us stress, it is up to our conscious mind as to how to utilize this increased energy and awareness.
Unfortunately our conscious mind does not understand the processes of the depressive response and we are seldom able to exercise control over that which causes us stress. Consequently our conscious mind many times misuses or misdirects the increased energy and awareness of mania to a point where we may go on shopping sprees, spend food money to buy lotto tickets, or try to make a killing in the stock market. We do things which at the time seem logical and will solve our problems but in retrospect were illogical and ill conceived. As the process advances it is possible that the euphoria is circumvented and we progress directly into a frenzied hyperactive state which may cycle quickly between periods of mania and the depressive response.
This theory presupposes that there is a purpose, a function, even a logic behind the depressive response and episodes of bipolar disorder mania. I believe this to be true, unfortunately due to the constant and unnatural stress our modern society places on many of our people we are stressed beyond the point that our biological processes have the capacity to mediate and these natural functions become maladaptive and dysfunctional.
The basic premise of this exercise for tempering our bipolar disorder mania is that it is possible to utilize the energy of mania, anger, and despair towards a therapeutic end. Traditionally, before I learned to control my mania and depressive episodes, the periods would utilize the energy of mania, anger, and despair toward a frenzied, bazaar, and suicidal state culminating in a major depressive episode. Since I have learned the mechanisms of control these periods have been used to gain insight into the depressive response, do extensive research, and write the pages of this web site, among other things. Of course I don't expect everyone to focus this energy on writing web pages concerning the depressive response. But the focus does need to be something which is therapeutic and I suggest when you first begin that you choose a cognitive based self-help program.
There are four areas of concentration or activities which will become your focus during this exercise, depending on how you are doing at any one particular time.
1. A cognitive behavioral based self help program.
It is best to become familiar with the basic concepts and procedures of the cognitive self-help program before you find yourself in a bipolar mania crisis.
2. A creative endeavor.
This might include writing, painting, poetry, pottery, sculpture, wood working, etc.
3. Exercise.
Including aerobics, a stationary bicycle, or activities which help us focus such as yoga or ti-che. In lieu of physical exercise, relaxation exercises may be helpful.
4. A back-up plan.
Someone to call in case you lose control and need to talk it out. Possibly a supportive friend or family member, your therapist, a crisis help line, the local hospital. Find the phone numbers ahead of time and make sure you have a plan for weekends and holidays.
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