The Intersection of Eating Disorders & Bipolar Disorder: Coping Tips From a Therapist
Written by guest writer: Jennifer Rollin, LCSW-C, Therapist & Founder of The Eating Disorder Center
As a therapist and Founder of The Eating Disorder Center, who specializes in both eating disorders and mood disorders (including bipolar disorder and depression), I frequently see how misunderstood bipolar disorder still is—both within the mental health field and in society at large. Unfortunately, many therapists receive limited training in bipolar disorder, and stigma often adds an extra layer of shame for those living with the diagnosis.
Eating Disorders and Bipolar Disorder
Shifts in mood such as depression, hypomania, and mania can significantly affect hunger cues, energy levels, and eating patterns, which may complicate the process of eating disorder recovery.
It’s also essential to emphasize that eating disorders are not choices. They often develop as coping mechanisms and, for some people, as a way to create a sense of structure or control. Because bipolar disorder can feel unpredictable and destabilizing, engaging in eating disorder behaviors may serve as an unconscious way to attempt to manage that internal chaos or regain a (false) sense of control.
Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, it is very treatable with the right support and care. At the same time, full recovery from an eating disorder is possible.
Below are several key strategies that can be helpful if you’re navigating bipolar disorder.
1. Build a treatment team with true expertise in bipolar disorder
Working with a therapist who is knowledgeable about bipolar disorder is essential. Bipolar disorder involves unique clinical considerations, and most graduate programs do not provide in-depth training on how to treat it effectively. Just as you wouldn’t see a general practitioner for brain surgery, it’s important to work with specialists when it comes to complex mood disorders.
Medication is also a crucial part of treatment for many people with bipolar disorder. Finding a psychiatrist who understands bipolar disorder and is accessible if your mood begins to shift can be incredibly helpful. It’s also important to know that antidepressants such as SSRIs or SNRIs, when taken alone, can trigger hypomanic or manic episodes in some individuals with bipolar disorder. For this reason, they are often paired with a mood stabilizer when prescribed.
2. Track your moods, symptoms, and potential triggers
One of the most effective ways to increase stability is to track your mood states over time. Paying attention to symptoms, patterns, and possible triggers can help you better understand your personal warning signs.
While some mood shifts happen without a clear cause, others may be influenced by external factors. Tracking can also help you catch subtle early changes—often before a full depressive, hypomanic, or manic episode develops—so you can intervene sooner.
Common triggers that may contribute to mood changes include:
Changes in medication
Reduced or disrupted sleep
High levels of stress
Seasonal or light changes (for some people)
3. Create a proactive plan for early warning signs
Once you have a clearer understanding of your early warning signs, it can be incredibly helpful to create a plan for how you’ll respond when you notice them. Sharing this plan with trusted loved ones can also provide an added layer of support and accountability.
Examples of coping strategies may include:
During hypomanic or manic states, running major decisions by a partner or trusted friend before acting (and, in some cases, temporarily limiting access to credit cards)
Amber light glasses at night can be useful when someone is in a manic or hypomanic phase.
Limiting caffeine (as well as taking a pause from upbeat music) during manic and hypomanic phases may also be useful.
Using behavioral activation strategies when depression begins to set in
Reaching out to your psychiatrist promptly when you notice mood shifts, rather than waiting until symptoms escalate
4. Seek out connection and community
Bipolar disorder can feel deeply isolating, especially when stigma is present. Finding a sense of community (whether online or in person) can be incredibly validating and grounding.
Learning more about bipolar disorder and hearing others’ lived experiences can also reduce shame and increase self-compassion. There are several excellent podcasts on the topic. One I highly recommend (and was a guest on) is Live Well Bipolar.
The Bottom Line
While bipolar disorder can bring real challenges, it does not define you or limit your ability to live a meaningful life. With the right treatment team, increased self-awareness, and effective coping strategies, it is possible to manage mood episodes and live in alignment with your values.
About The Eating Disorder Center
The Eating Disorder Center, founded by Jennifer Rollin, LCSW-C, is a premier outpatient therapy center dedicated to compassionate and evidence-based eating disorder treatment. Our team specializes in supporting children, teens, and adults navigating anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, OSFED, and body image concerns. We offer in-person therapy in Rockville, Maryland and Arlington, Virginia, and virtual therapy throughout Maryland, Virginia, Florida, Pennsylvania, California, Washington D.C., and beyond. We also provide EMDR trauma therapy, as well as worldwide eating disorder recovery coaching via Zoom.
Learn more or connect with us at www.theeatingdisordercenter.com
