I have heard of Social Rhythm Therapy, and that it's particularly focused on those with bipolar disorder. A proper "rhythm" is crucial to my wellness and even happiness. I don't usually respond well to major changes in my routine, or at least ones that bring with it a stress. This said, I am by nature a schedule and routine person, which helps.

A major trigger for derailment of my rhythm is travel, especially to places with big time differences. It's hard to count how many vacations I started to get manic or mixed manic. Even during my wedding vacation I started to get manic. Definitely the stress of the events exacerbated that, another rhythm changer. Even a trip as simple as going to Prague from my current Czech city upset my equilibrium. Very often during vacations I try to excuse myself for "alone time" to wind down. A heavy itinerary/project load or too many different than normal things affects me negatively.

Compared to many (perhaps most) sleep issues were almost never a symptom that plagued me. I rarely struggle to fall sleep, or when I don't fall asleep (insomnia) it's usually a situation I don't mind. When manic, I don't even want to sleep. Doing so seems a punishment. But again, that fuels the beast. When significantly depressed, I lean towards hypersomnia. Sleeping during depression is an unhealthy escape that makes me more and more tired. Catch 22. Sometimes forcing myself into a sort of routine when depressed aids in lifting it for me.

SRT alone wouldn't be sufficient for my mental wellness. I think many also have other struggles that affect bipolar disorder. For example, anxiety can trigger my episodes. Stress. Even positive excitement. I used to declare a "pursuit of pleasure" that would turn out little different than if I took a stimulant. Drinking alcohol was a poor way I tried to self-medicate growing mania or even depression. Such things are like making a deal with the devil. Initial "relief" but inevitable destruction.