Please provide some do's and don'ts on living with manic depressive disorder.

Ignore: Do make sure you get the right amount of sleep every single night.

Ignore: Take your medication so that you can have an even keel emotional state.

Ignore: Reach out those you love, stay close! You've "got their back, " right? So let them have yours?

Ignore: Don't stop taking your medication just because you happen to be feeling good at the moment.

Ignore: Consult with your prescribing physician before adjusting the dose of your mood stabilizer.

Take: Take suicide threats seriously if living w' some1 w' Bipolar I. Suicide completion rate may B 10-20%.

Patients: Those who've had more than 1manic or 3 or more depressive episodes should have lifelong treatment.

Don't: Don't discontinue your medication unless directed by your physician.

Ignore: See your psychiatrist regularly without fail and DON"T skip your medications.

While: While the incidence in USA peaks in the age group of 20's, an MDD first episode can occur later on.

Ignore: Take your medication regularly even if it seems to decrease your energy level.

Ignore: If you are on medication keep the prescribed schedule. Also, exercise and avoid caffeine and sugar.

Ignore: Stay on your medication regimen VERY regularly. Collaborate with your psychiatrist during changes.

Ignore: When you're well you're well and when you're not you're not. A mood stabilizer can keep you well.

Get: Get evaluated, get medicated, and MOST importantly, GET INTO THERAPY. DO IT TODAY!!!

Be: Be cautious about irritating the person with manic depressive disorder if you sense he's escalating!

Ignore: Do have open, honest discussion w/your treatment team about symptoms. Don't be embarrassed to share.

Ignore: Do: work w/ Dr., take meds as prescribed. Do: have a good sleep schedule. Don't: Drink/drug.