How can you lower the intensity of the state so you are not overwhelmed? You may not be able to remove all of the feelings and sensations of being overwhelmed - they may be there for good reason! However, you can learn to lower the intensity to a level that helps you regain control of your response to these feelings.

One of the biggest differences between Bipolar IN Order and other programs is the goal we are trying to accomplish. While other programs are about reducing symptoms in hope of permanent remission, our goal is to learn how to function while experiencing the states that were driving us to dis-order.

Nonetheless, there are times when taking steps to lower the intensity of our experience is the best option. We are looking for ways to restore or return to our comfort zone.

<——————————————Intensity —————————————————>

Comfort Zone——>Sligtly outside——>Almost overwhelmed—-> Overwhelmed

Tools can follow the categories below:

Physical: rest, massage, music, nature walk, dance, workout, calming herbal or prescription remedies.

Mental: making lists, separating pros/cons or other issues, reading, writing, music, silence, calming herbal or prescription remedies.

Social: retreat if necessary, accept more, control less

Spiritual: ask for support, listen to a favorite talk, song, meditation

Ingestible: food and beverage, prescriptions, over the counter, or vitamin/herbal remedies.

Note: If you are using illegal drugs and/or alcohol to self medicate, please consider the amount of self-harm vs. the effect on your state. If you are considered to have an addiction, these are not good tools for lowering the intensity. See an addictions specialist.

Two of our 8 core courses, Tools to Lower the Intensity of States, and Accounting for Time go into more detail about choices of tools, deciding how and when to use tools.

Lowering The Intensity