At a stage in life typically marked by uncertainties, heightened insecurities, and immense pressure, the added challenge of living with bipolar disorder can be distressing for students. To address this, we’ve crafted a collection of 58 journal prompts that are specifically designed for young people with bipolar disorder. Support your students on their mental health journey by providing prompts to guide them in exploring complex emotions, tracking their moods, and increasing self-awareness!
1. Write about a time when you felt most understood in terms of your bipolar disorder.
2. Describe how you feel during a manic episode. What are the common symptoms you notice?
3. Describe how you feel during a depressive episode. What are the signs that you’ve entered this phase?
4. How does bipolar disorder affect your relationships with your friends and family?
5. How has bipolar disorder affected your academic performance?
6. Write about a positive aspect of your bipolar disorder. What strengths have you gained?
7. How do your sleep patterns change between manic and depressive episodes?
8. What triggers have you noticed that lead to a mood swing?
9. Write about a time when you successfully managed a mood swing.
10. What coping mechanisms have you found most effective during depressive episodes?
11. What strategies help you stay grounded during a manic episode?
12. How do you feel about the stigma around bipolar disorder?
13. What fears do you have about the future in relation to your bipolar disorder?
14. Write a letter to yourself for a day when you’re feeling low. What would you like to remind your future self?
15. How has bipolar disorder affected your self-esteem and body image?
16. How has your diet changed during different phases of your bipolar cycle?
17. What role does exercise play in managing your bipolar disorder?
18. What misconceptions about bipolar disorder would you like to correct?
19. How has bipolar disorder shaped your view on mental health?
20. How has bipolar disorder influenced your career goals?
21. What kind of support do you wish you had more of?
22. How do you explain your bipolar disorder to people who don’t understand it?
23. Write about your experiences with medication for bipolar disorder.
24. How do you manage stress and its effects on your bipolar disorder?
25. Describe an instance where you felt a great deal of hope despite your condition.
26. How do you maintain balance in your life?
27. How does your mood influence your creativity?
28. Write about a time when you felt frustrated because of your bipolar disorder.
29. How do you manage the unpredictable nature of your mood swings?
30. Describe your most successful coping strategy when you feel overwhelmed.
31. How has therapy or counseling helped you manage your bipolar disorder?
32. Write about a time when you felt in control of your life despite having bipolar disorder.
33. How has your bipolar disorder affected your decision-making process?
34. Describe a scenario where you managed to avoid a potential trigger.
35. How do you deal with guilt or regret after a manic episode?
36. Write about the personal growth you’ve experienced because of your bipolar disorder.
37. How has your bipolar disorder affected your romantic relationships?
38. What are your personal warning signs of an impending mood swing?
39. Describe your support network. Who can you count on when you’re going through a tough phase?
40. How has bipolar disorder impacted your social life?
41. How do you deal with the physical effects of your mood swings?
42. Write about a moment of clarity you’ve had during a manic or depressive episode.
43. What’s the biggest challenge you face when you’re in a depressive episode?
44. How does your environment impact your bipolar disorder?
45. How do you stay focused on your goals during a manic or depressive episode?
46. How do you celebrate your victories, no matter how small, in managing your bipolar disorder?
47. Write about any feelings of isolation or loneliness you may have due to your disorder.
48. What self-care practices have you found to be helpful during mood swings?
49. How has bipolar disorder made you more empathetic or understanding towards others?
50. How do you regain your confidence after a depressive episode?
51. What lessons has living with bipolar disorder taught you?
52. How do you want your teachers or professors to support you?
53. How does your bipolar disorder impact your ability to handle criticism or failure?
54. Write about a time when you were proud of yourself in your journey with bipolar disorder.
55. How does bipolar disorder affect your overall outlook on life?
56. How do you deal with feelings of anger or frustration caused by bipolar disorder?
57. Write about a time you were grateful for an aspect of your bipolar disorder.
58. How do you handle the fear or anxiety associated with the unpredictability of bipolar disorder?