How to Maintain Personal Hygiene During Bipolar Mood Swings

Picture a thrilling rollercoaster ride that takes you on a journey of emotions, with twists and turns that bring you to exhilarating highs and plummeting lows..

Bipolar Disorder
March 21, 2025

Picture a thrilling rollercoaster ride that takes you on a journey of emotions, with twists and turns that bring you to exhilarating highs and plummeting lows.Living with bipolar disorder can feel like a tumultuous journey of extreme mood fluctuations.It can be challenging to maintain personal hygiene during bipolar mood swings, given the unpredictable nature of the condition.However, the right support for bipolar disorder can make all the difference.There are practical ways to conquer personal hygiene hurdles while riding the bipolar rollercoaster.One way to maintain personal hygiene during bipolar mood swings is by seeking support from your loved ones.When it gets too hard to get out of bed because a depressive mood consumes you, seek help from family or friends.Your support system is there to help you when you can't help yourself.Also, when it comes to personal hygiene, especially when you are in the throes of bipolar mood swings, try to start small and gradually build momentum.It's okay if you are only able to brush your teeth one day; the next day, you can consider brushing your hair too.Adopting this method allows you to learn to do more for yourself gradually.Creating a plan for personal hygiene can also be very efficient.A plan gives you a quick view of what is to be done and in what order; this will remove the headache of struggling to know where to start.Below are more details on ways to maintain personal hygiene during bipolar mood swings.

Consider Working With Your Support System

Maintaining personal hygiene during bipolar mood swings requires a strong support system by your side.Research indicates that having dependable support for bipolar disorder is essential for achieving good mental health, emphasizing the importance of such support.When things get difficult, your support system, which includes mental health experts, loved ones, and friends, can offer encouragement and assistance.They are your cheerleaders, ready to lend a helping hand or a gentle nudge when needed.You can inform your support system about your hygiene struggles, and they can assist you in numerous ways.They may support you by giving reminders, participating in self-care routines, or just being a compassionate listener when you're going through tough times.You can overcome hygiene challenges by working together.You could also request someone to act as a buffer between you and certain behaviors by asking them to "keep you in check" in certain situations.They can be helpful in distracting you or preventing overspending during a manic shopping episode.Whenever possible, seek out support from any available sources.Spending time with people you love and trust, who are positive and loving, can help improve your mood, ease stress, and enhance your overall well-being.

A woman putting hand sanitizer on her palm.

Simplify Your Hygiene Routine

Simplifying your hygiene routine is a powerful strategy for you to maintain personal hygiene during bipolar mood swings.Breaking down many tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can provide a sense of control and achievement rather than feeling overwhelmed.Picture beginning your day with a comprehensive list of hygiene tasks to complete. Just thinking about it can be too much, causing anxiety or fatigue.You can transform this potential burden into achievable goals by simplifying your routine.When you concentrate on completing one task at a time, you relieve yourself from the stress of a complex and time-consuming procedure.Before you know it, accomplishing each task will be a little triumph for you, enhancing your self-confidence and inspiring you to keep taking care of yourself.Keep in mind that being simple doesn't equate to compromising on effectiveness.Adapting your routine to align with your energy levels and requirements during mood swings associated with bipolar disorder.Starting with a small plan and gradually adding more steps will make all the difference.

Consider Creating a Plan

Depression can be difficult to deal with because the feelings of sadness can be overwhelming, making it hard to make decisions.Having a well-planned strategy can be extremely helpful in overcoming hygiene challenges that may arise during mood swings.Take a moment to sit down with either a smartphone app or a pen and paper and craft a hygiene plan that is tailored to your individual needs.You could try this approach in between episodes so you're ready when you sense your mood shifting.Specify personal hygiene tasks and assign time slots for each activity.Having a visual roadmap will make things much easier for you.When devising a plan, always be specific.The statement "Get some exercise" is too general, whereas "Take a 10-minute walk" is a more specific and effective suggestion.Also, make sure your plan is flexible enough to adjust to changes in your mood.On certain days, you may have the drive and enthusiasm to carry out a thorough hygiene regimen, whereas, on other days, you may have to reduce your efforts.It's vital to have a flexible plan that can cater to your requirements and offer guidance and stability during challenging times.

Set Reminders

It's common to lose track of time and neglect self-care during bipolar mood swings.Reminders can be helpful in such situations.Make use of alarms, notifications, or calendar reminders on your phone or computer to harness the potential of technology.These reminders will help you stay on top of your hygiene routine and maintain personal hygiene, even when experiencing bipolar mood swings.In addition, incorporating visual signals into your living area can have a positive impact as subtle prompts.You may want to place a bright sticky note on your bathroom mirror or close to your toothbrush as a reminder to perform essential hygiene tasks.These small visual cues can have a big impact, gently nudging you in the right direction.

Opt For Low-Energy Hygiene Practices

When faced with fluctuating energy levels during mood swings, it becomes crucial to embrace low-energy hygiene practices.These practices provide an alternative option for days when taking a full shower may feel too difficult or unattainable.You can prioritize personal hygiene while conserving your energy reserves by including these options in your routine.Using dry shampoo is a way to keep your hair refreshed without having to wash it traditionally and is an example of low-energy hygiene practices.This product is available in spray or powder form and can absorb excess oil, instantly providing a boost of cleanliness.For a fast and effective way to clean yourself, you may want to try a sponge bath.To cleanse your body, use a damp cloth or sponge and focus on areas that require attention.This is a practical solution for situations when taking a full shower may feel overwhelming or when you have limited time or energy.

Conclusion

Maintaining personal hygiene during bipolar mood swings can present unique challenges.However, with support for bipolar disorder, you can navigate these hurdles and prioritize self-care.You can maintain personal hygiene during bipolar mood swings by working with your support system, simplifying your hygiene routine, creating a plan, setting reminders, and opting for low-energy hygiene practices.

Resources

https://mhanational.org/taking-good-care-yourself

https://psychcentral.com/bipolar/bipolar-disorder-and-messiness#tips-to-manage-organization

https://www.bphope.com/blog/are-you-taking-care-of-your-hygiene-during-bipolar-mood-swings/#:~:text=Wear%20long%2Dacting%20deodorant%20if,day%20when%20you%20get%20sick.

https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/mental-illness-can-impact-hygiene#Can-you-be-too-hygienic?

https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/living-healthy-life-with-bipolar

https://idontmind.com/journal/the-ultimate-guide-for-when-depression-makes-hygiene-hard

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Bipolar Disorder

No items found.