On 3rd April we held the first of what will be our weekly Facebook Live broadcasts hosted by Bipolar UK's CEO, Simon Kitchen. Due to a technical hitch we've been unable to share the archived session. We've put together part one of the points raised and the answers to your questions that were given.

Emma asked: 'I haven’t been diagnosed, I’m waiting for my assessment, but coronavirus means I won’t get to see someone for a long time. What can I do to self-manage at home while I’m waiting?'

• Without a diagnosis is tough as you can’t access medication
• Use our mood diary to keep track of mood.
• Avoid triggers – a lot people with bipolar will only plan one major life event at any one time it's difficult at the moment but avoid taking on too much
• Make sure you get sleep and get regular exercise
• Stay connected to other people
• Some people have found mindfulness helpful too

Abdul asked 'Free prescriptions. Not eligible which seems unfair as a number chronic conditions are. We are planning a Bipolar Commission next year and free prescriptions could be a recommendation?'

You can get free NHS prescriptions if, at the time the prescription is dispensed, you:

• are 60 or over
• are under 16
• are 16 to 18 and in full-time education
• are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months and have a valid maternity exemption certificate (MatEx)
• have a specified medical condition and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx)
• have a continuing physical disability that prevents you going out without help from another person and have a valid medical exemption certificate (MedEx)
• hold a valid war pension exemption certificate and the prescription is for your accepted disability
• are an NHS inpatient

You're also entitled to free prescriptions if you or your partner (including civil partner) receive, or you're under the age of 20 and the dependant of someone receiving:

• Income Support
• income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
• income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
• Universal Credit and meet the criteria

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To view these sessions and the others please head to our Facebook page.

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