Traveling with Bipolar Disorder: Tips and Strategies
Traveling with bipolar disorder can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation and mindset, you can enjoy your travels while managing your bipolar disorder symptoms. Here are some tips and strategies to help you make the most of your travels:
- Collaborate with your clinician: Depending on which type of bipolar disorder you experience, episodes of mania could spur feelings of impulsivity, grandiosity, and urges to overspend. You might find it helpful to let your therapist, counselor, or support team know when you’ll be leaving and give them an overview of your itinerary. Similarly, if you think a trip will help with a depressive episode, and you get away from home only to discover it doesn’t, you may find it reassuring that you can reach out to your support network.
- Bring extra meds: There are endless ways to lose items while traveling — from airport security to forgetting a bag in a taxi. It’s important to pack extra medication in case of an emergency. You might also want to consider bringing a copy of your prescription and a note from your doctor explaining your condition and medication.
- Book departures and arrivals around your sleep schedule: Sleep is essential for people with bipolar disorder. Traveling can disrupt your sleep schedule, so it’s important to plan ahead. Try to book flights that align with your sleep schedule. If you’re traveling across time zones, you might want to consider arriving a day early to give yourself time to adjust.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Eating healthy foods can help regulate your mood and energy levels. When traveling, it’s easy to indulge in unhealthy foods. Try to pack healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, and vegetables. If you’re staying in a hotel, look for one that offers a continental breakfast with healthy options.
- Be patient: Traveling can be stressful, especially if you’re living with bipolar disorder. Be patient with yourself and others. If you feel overwhelmed, take a break and do something calming like deep breathing or meditation.
- Stay away from alcohol or keep it to a minimum: Alcohol can interfere with your medication and trigger mood swings. If you do choose to drink, do so in moderation.
Traveling with bipolar disorder can be a positive experience, but it’s wise to plan well. By following these tips and strategies, you can enjoy your travels while managing your bipolar disorder symptoms. Remember to collaborate with your clinician, bring extra medication, book departures and arrivals around your sleep schedule, maintain a healthy diet, be patient, and stay away from alcohol or keep it to a minimum. Bon voyage!