The Bipolar Lens

Ah, Terri! I use PBS's nature shows, magazines, and chocolate for the same reasons. You are funny and smart and I love to read your writing. I am also bipolar, so your stories let me know that I am most definitely not alone. Thank you!

I totally agree Terri-I also have Bipolar, and found numerous "tricks" very similar to what you mention in the article that really work.
Even as a male, I am a firm believer in pampering yourself; long hot baths with bubbles and therapeutic music, sitting quietly in nature, a good laugh and comfort food, especially if you have to get up and go out to purchase it, definitely work for me.
These strategies allow for re-charging the batteries and also re-establish grounding, as when depressed we tend to become far too inwardly focussed, dwelling on the messages our mind is sending instead of retaining a wider vista, and keeping things in perspective. If we are not careful, these negative messages become self-perpetuating, and it seems we have to do exactly what we think is the most difficult, in order to break this cycle.
And yes, these tips ARE far more reliable than meds.