I've been looking into trying to find new coping mechanisms too. Recently I purchased a workbook to help identify symptoms, triggers, etc. and learn better coping skills. I'm not done with it yet, but so far, so good.

Overcoming Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Workbook for Managing Your Symptoms and Achieving Your Life Goals: Mark Bauer, Evette Ludman, Devra E. Greenwald, Amy M. Kilbourne: 9781572245648: Amazon.com: Books

So far it's helping me, maybe check it out. Might help, a little.