Bipolar · Relapse
Bipolar Prodrome Map
Early signs, in the order they usually appear
Every episode has warning signs that appear before the episode. Your job is to know yours — because catching an episode 4 days in is much easier than 4 weeks in.
My depression prodrome (in order I usually notice)
Sleep changes, withdrawal, appetite, rumination, energy
My hypomania/mania prodrome
Sleep loss (huge signal), racing thoughts, spending, projects, sexuality, irritability
Who I'll tell within 48 hours of signs
Prescriber, therapist, trusted person
What I do first
PRN plan, sleep protection, calendar clearing, driving/money restrictions
Early is easier
No stigma attaches to catching an episode early. It's the same episode, treated with less collateral damage.