[studentsri]

Last night I stayed up late - working on something for school and then watching a TV show that really interests me. I realize now, after not having fallen asleep until 2:30 or 3:00 (when I got in bed at midnight) that that was a bad decision and it caused me to be hypomanic. The problem I'm having is I don't know what to do when that happens - there are some times that I might have to stay late (especially since I'm involved with performing arts and shows are usually at night) - so what should I do when that happens? Does anyone have a good nighttime routine or ritual that works for them? Is there anything I can do to relax myself and my mind and fall asleep quicker?

[BipolaRNurse]

You probably should have something prescribed for you on a PRN (as needed) basis to help you sleep. It may be an antipsychotic (I just got put on Zyprexa for this as I've been full-blown manic this past week) or a benzo (Klonopin, Xanax etc.). Some people use melatonin, which is over-the-counter, and do well with it.

Beyond that, using your bed only for sleep and sex, and not watching TV or playing on the computer just before bedtime are helpful. Of course, if I were any good at this I would sleep better myself without needing big-time drugs to knock myself out.....