Why Starting a Routine Can Be Challenging
Even when you know a routine will be helpful for managing your bipolar disorder, it can be difficult to establish one, in part because change is hard for many people, not just those with mood disorders, says Glowiak.
“People are naturally creatures of habit who often resist change,” he says. “Meaningful routines require discipline and consistency, particularly during times when motivation is low. For those with bipolar disorder, the challenge is not being uncertain about what to do, it’s about maintaining consistency when symptoms make routine feel difficult. That can be discouraging.”
There may also be obstacles to creating a routine, such as an unpredictable work schedule or conflict with people around you who may not support your new habits, says Naomi Torres-Mackie, PhD, a clinical psychologist at Northwell Health’s Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Recognizing these variables is an important aspect of developing a meaningful routine.
“Be mindful of what these roadblocks look like so you can sidestep them,” she says. “Also keep in mind that no matter what these challenges might be, they’re usually manageable, and it’s worth addressing them for the stability and structure that routines can bring.”
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