8. As you accept your present state imagine yourself to be like a boat - which has become beached. At the right time the sea flows back and of its own accord simply lifts that boat up off the sand. The lowest ebb is the turn of the tide.
WHEN ELATED
1 Don't assume that this state will go on forever either. In your heart of hearts you know it won't.
2 Therefore don't say things to other people face to face or by letter - particularly about your current plans and ambitions - which will only embarrass you when the bubble bursts.
3 Don't deal in half-truths. They will only come back and bite.
4 Don't make claims for yourself which are incompatible with basic humility.
5 Discipline yourself so as to avoid getting angry with other people. Instead, always be courteous; you will he glad later on.
6 Likewise, do not succumb to hatred. Think twice before taking up cudgels.
7 Go on taking your medication. You owe it to to yourself and to those who are looking after you.
WHEN NORMAL
1. Do the things you can do easily while you have the opportunity to do so. Move from one such to the next.
2 Tie up your loose ends. Knowing that depression can strike at any time, prepare yourself by being ready and by having the most pressing duties done. In time you will find that this becomes a most valuable discipline.
3 Deepen your relationships with your friends and family. Enable them to understand you. When you need help, they will have more to offer.
4 Make sure you get enough sleep. Not to can be a danger sign.
5 Try keeping a notebook or journal of all the happy things that happen to you. If you are a photographer, keep a photographic record too. It will bring you cheer when you need it.
HOW TO STOP, LESSEN or PREVENT HYPOMANIA
When the patient is in a stable condition, it is mandatory to establish an oral contract that elicits his/her cooperation in permitting a trusted significant person to make an intervention. The patient grants the person permission to intervene to prevent an episode by:
1. Giving feedback regarding the patient's thinking, mood and behavior.
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