6

Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by Bipolar Disorder? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

See if it is advisable for people with Bipolar Disorder to practice sports and which ones are the most recommended if you have Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder sports

Exercise and Bipolar Disorder: Finding the Right Balance


When it comes to managing bipolar disorder, a comprehensive treatment plan often includes a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. One lifestyle change that can have a significant impact on overall well-being is regular exercise. However, it is important to approach exercise with caution and find the right balance that works for each individual.



The Benefits of Exercise for Bipolar Disorder


Engaging in regular physical activity can offer numerous benefits for individuals with bipolar disorder. Exercise has been shown to:



  • Improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression

  • Boost self-esteem and confidence

  • Reduce stress and anxiety

  • Promote better sleep

  • Enhance cognitive function and memory

  • Provide a sense of structure and routine



Choosing the Right Activities


When it comes to selecting the right activities, it is important to consider personal preferences, physical abilities, and overall health. The key is to find activities that are enjoyable and sustainable in the long term. Here are some suggestions:



  • Aerobic Exercises: Activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, or dancing can help elevate heart rate and release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters.

  • Yoga and Pilates: These mind-body exercises can help improve flexibility, balance, and promote relaxation. They also focus on deep breathing techniques, which can be beneficial for managing stress and anxiety.

  • Strength Training: Incorporating resistance exercises using weights or resistance bands can help build muscle strength and improve overall physical fitness. It can also provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-confidence.

  • Team Sports or Group Classes: Joining a sports team or participating in group exercise classes can provide social interaction and a sense of community, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with bipolar disorder.



Exercise Intensity and Duration


The intensity and duration of exercise should be tailored to individual needs and capabilities. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration over time. Here are some general guidelines:



  • Begin with low to moderate-intensity exercises, such as walking or gentle yoga, for about 20-30 minutes per session, three to five times a week.

  • As fitness levels improve, gradually increase the intensity and duration of the workouts. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.

  • Include strength training exercises at least two days a week, targeting major muscle groups.

  • Listen to your body and adjust the intensity or duration as needed. It is important to avoid overexertion or pushing oneself too hard, as this can lead to increased stress and potential mood destabilization.



Additional Considerations


While exercise can be highly beneficial for individuals with bipolar disorder, it is essential to keep a few additional considerations in mind:



  • Consult with a Healthcare Professional: Before starting any new exercise program, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if there are any underlying health conditions or concerns.

  • Monitor Mood and Energy Levels: Pay attention to how exercise affects mood and energy levels. While exercise can generally improve mood, it is important to be mindful of any signs of hypomania or mania, such as increased agitation or irritability.

  • Establish a Routine: Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of exercise. Establish a regular exercise routine and try to stick to it, as it can provide a sense of structure and stability.

  • Combine Exercise with Other Treatment Approaches: Exercise should be seen as a complementary approach to other bipolar disorder treatments, such as medication and therapy. It is not a substitute for professional medical care.



Conclusion


Exercise can be a valuable tool in managing bipolar disorder, offering a range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. However, it is crucial to approach exercise with caution and find the right balance that works for each individual. By choosing enjoyable activities, gradually increasing intensity, and monitoring mood and energy levels, individuals with bipolar disorder can incorporate exercise into their overall treatment plan and improve their overall well-being.


Diseasemaps
2 answers
Exercise is advised! a good exercise routine could help with periods of excessive energy from hypomania states, and could help with working through periods of depression.

Posted Mar 4, 2017 by Sarah 2000

Bipolar Disorder sports

Bipolar Disorder life expectancy

What is the life expectancy of someone with Bipolar Disorder?

3 answers
Celebrities with Bipolar Disorder

Celebrities with Bipolar Disorder

1 answer
Is Bipolar Disorder hereditary?

Is Bipolar Disorder hereditary?

2 answers
Is Bipolar Disorder contagious?

Is Bipolar Disorder contagious?

2 answers
Natural treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Is there any natural treatment for Bipolar Disorder?

1 answer
ICD9 and ICD10 codes of Bipolar Disorder

ICD10 code of Bipolar Disorder and ICD9 code

2 answers
Living with Bipolar Disorder

Living with Bipolar Disorder. How to live with Bipolar Disorder?

2 answers
Bipolar Disorder diet

Bipolar Disorder diet. Is there a diet which improves the quality of life o...

2 answers

World map of Bipolar Disorder

Find people with Bipolar Disorder through the map. Connect with them and share experiences. Join the Bipolar Disorder community.

Stories of Bipolar Disorder

BIPOLAR DISORDER STORIES
Bipolar Disorder stories
Sairastuin 1994 keskivaikeaan masennukseen, sain psykoosin myös. Sairauttani hoidettiin vuosia masennuksena. Eli lääkitys ja terapiat olivat väärän diagnoosin vuoksi toimimattomia. Kärsin useita vuosia vuoroin masennuksesta ja vuoroin maniasta...
Bipolar Disorder stories
Loss is the softest word.   It’s tufts of hopeful grass on the hardest ground. It’s the sound of an eclipse slipping behind the clouds. It’s what we reach out to when we find our hands are as small as a two-year-old’s. It’s a rough fold ...
Bipolar Disorder stories
Any help you need or advice just message me please
Bipolar Disorder stories
There's a lot of talk out there about mental health, and i wanted to share my story about being diagnosed BiPolar I am your average guy, completed my engineering degree, had a job out of school. Things were looking bright. Over the course of a year s...
Bipolar Disorder stories
I do not like to talk about nyself and would rather not HAVE to write my story

Tell your story and help others

Tell my story

Bipolar Disorder forum

BIPOLAR DISORDER FORUM

Ask a question and get answers from other users.

Ask a question

Find your symptoms soulmates

From now on you can add your symptoms in diseasemaps and find your symptoms soulmates. Symptoms soulmates are people with similar symptoms to you.

Symptoms soulmates

Add your symptoms and discover your soulmates map

Soulmates map