Adaptive Lifestyle Strategies Used by Young Adults Living With Bipolar II Disorder
Keywords:
Bipolar II Disorder, lifestyle strategies, young adults, self-regulationAbstract
This study aimed to explore the adaptive lifestyle strategies employed by young adults living with Bipolar II Disorder (BD-II) to manage emotional regulation, daily functioning, and mental well-being. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 18 participants aged 21 to 34, all formally diagnosed with BD-II and residing in Tehran. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling, and interviews continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis with the assistance of NVivo software. The analytic process followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework, allowing for inductive identification of themes grounded in the participants’ lived experiences. Three overarching themes emerged from the analysis: Self-Regulation and Emotional Management, Lifestyle Structure and Daily Stability, and Social Connection and Support Systems. Participants employed a variety of personalized strategies, including emotional tracking, mood journaling, sleep regulation, structured routines, physical activity, and selective social engagement. Many participants relied on self-monitoring tools, created crisis response plans, and developed medication adherence routines. Social support was sought through trusted relationships, peer communities, and therapeutic alliances, while selective disclosure was used to navigate stigma. These findings underscore the agency and intentionality of young adults in managing BD-II beyond clinical interventions. Young adults with BD-II actively engage in diverse, context-specific lifestyle strategies to stabilize mood and maintain functional well-being. These strategies reflect a proactive, integrative approach to self-management that complements clinical treatment. Recognizing and supporting these behaviors within therapeutic settings can enhance recovery-oriented care and promote long-term stability for individuals living with BD-II.
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