(HealthDay News) -- Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive illness, is characterized by extreme mood swings.

The American Academy of Family Physicians offers these suggestions to help you cope with bipolar disorder:

• Find out as much as you can about the disorder -- ask your doctor for good references and resources.
• Maintain a regular routine of sleeping and waking times, mealtimes and exercise.
• Continue to take your medications prescribed by your doctor.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol, and don't take over-the-counter cold, allergy or cough medicines.
• Try to reduce stress.
• Monitor your moods, and tell your doctor when you start to notice significant changes.