getting sick again?

I have been off my meds for a year and doing okay, but lately I can't sleep and have trouble concentrating, I think I am getting sick again, does anyone else have these symptoms?

what should I do?

I would say sleep and concentration are two big warning flags. Not knowing anything about you, I can't give much advice except that you should at least touch base with a professional to see what they think. Meds are probably the first option... but if I find myself getting a little too "high" (overstimulated, racing thoughts, can't concentrate, can't sleep) I have learned to recognize these feelings and what they may be signalling. I guess I try to "slow-myself-down" and try to avert impending mania. I find my manic energy is like a snowball and it just gets worse the longer it goes on, so if I can catch this feeling early and try to curb it then I can stay healthy a little longer. Anti-anxiety meds help me with some of these same symptoms (sleep, concentration), but only before they have gotten really problematic.

You may be correct. You may want to check with your doctor. However, in the meantime there are a few things that might help. I have used these with much success. One is to cut down on unessential activities. But, make sure you do take care of what is important; like eating, exercise, paying bills, etc. If you can't sleep at least lie down in a darken room for 8 hours or so. Such an environment will give you body and mind some rest. You also stand a better chance of falling asleep in bed instead of walking around doing things all night. Make sure you get some exercise and some rest. I also do a lot of journaling. Every day I write in a notebook about my feelings, my hopes, my dreams, my fears, my hurts.

If you know things that tend to get your mind racing, do not do them for a while. For me, lots of coffee and loud music get me going.

Good Luck,
Jim S

I hope for your sake that you are not getting sick again. It is good to hear that you were doing well without your meds for a year. But may I ask why you stopped taking your meds for a year? Usually that is unsual for a person with a mental illness to not need their meds for a whole year. I would sincerely advise you to please go visit a mental health professional in your local area as soon as possible. They can help you get your sleep back to normal and help with your concentration.

*BipolarBear*