[wolftrap]

Routine is very important to my stability. I have a specific morning and evening routine. Part of the evening routine is planning out the next day and knowing what I need to do throughout the week. I've developed this routine over the last three years in order to assure that I get done what needs to get done, and that I live with a minimum of anxiety regarding the future, be it the future of today or the next month. It is my bulwark against some kind of order and chaos. Three years ago I was so anxious that I'd forget something that I managed every hour of the day with a spreadsheet. After being prescribed Zoloft, I don't have to be as paranoid, but I know that there is a line that can be crossed if I don't stick to a routine.


So, my question is, is routine as important to anyone else?

[MuddyBoots]

I don’t have a strict routine, but I try to go to bed, wake up, and eat at the same time everyday and that helps a little.

[*Beth*]

Yes. Having a routine has always been important to me. I found when I reached my 50's that routine became essential. In fact, sometimes I make myself mix things up a bit so I don't start being phobic if my routine is interrupted.

Overall, routine is important for anyone with mental illness, maybe especially BD, because of the sleep/wake cycle.


It seems that many people have problems with creating a routine they're comfortable with, at least that's what I hear quite a bit. That might be in part why such a great number of people are suffering badly from covid sheltering. Their routines are so disrupted.

[wolftrap]

I am now 54, and routine became a necessity three years ago. I could not function without it. Yes, the sleep/wake cycle is paramount. Mine is regulated by seroquel, thank goodness.

[Scooter9]

I have a sleep schedule, night routine, wake up routine, and things like that.

The routines are a baseline that keep things reasonably stable. I'm able to build up my life based on that stability so that I can handle things that can't fit into a routine.

[*Beth*]

Originally Posted by Scooter9

I have a sleep schedule, night routine, wake up routine, and things like that.

The routines are a baseline that keep things reasonably stable. I'm able to build up my life based on that stability so that I can handle things that can't fit into a routine.

What an apt way to phrase it. Perfect.

[Crazy Hitch]

I’m a high school teacher so routine is an inherent part of my job. I know at least a week in advance what I’ll be teaching at the exact hour of my timetable to which class where and when. So my work life is pretty organised. My home life not as much. I’ve kind of fallen into a weekend routine but if it strays it doesn’t bother me.

[Soupe du jour]

I need a routine to keep me well. I wouldn't say it is strict. In fact, I think any extreme (too strict or too lax) is generally not good for me. I think of healthy routine as more of an outline for the day, with the sub aspects allowed to vary.

I've had a slightly different routine since the end of March (when my husband started working from home). It's OK for it to change, as long as it doesn't change too often. In fact, a lot has changed since March because of the pandemic. I have no choice but to adapt.

My husband and I are in the midst of major changes in our lives. I look forward to when we can settle into a new environment again.

[Teddy Bear]

Routine is very important to me. I find work easier if I have a routine. I find it helpful to have a routine at home.

[Fuzzybear]

Originally Posted by Scooter9

I have a sleep schedule, night routine, wake up routine, and things like that.

The routines are a baseline that keep things reasonably stable. I'm able to build up my life based on that stability so that I can handle things that can't fit into a routine.

[wolftrap]

Thanks all. My therapist says that I function best with a routine. I see that I am not alone and I thank you all.