Treatment of bipolar disorder

Treatment of bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is one of the most important mental illnesses described in the DSM-IV-TR. It is characterized by episodes of depression and mania. The first article in this series, Understanding the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder, defined these episodes and discussed the different types of bipolar disorder. This article will tell you about some of the treatment options.

Typically, a person with bipolar disorder requires a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Many people see a doctor for medication and think that it will be enough to deal with the symptoms of the disorder. In order to truly understand the disorder, therapy is relevant. Medication can help relieve, but not cure, the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Most people experience persistent symptoms even when taking medication. For this reason, I strongly advocate for a person to attend therapy.

A trained therapist can help you identify behavioral methods to treat symptoms of depression and mania. A common type of therapy for bipolar disorder is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a type of therapy that teaches a person to understand the thinking behind some irrational emotions and behaviors. It can also teach a person to change behaviors to positively influence thoughts and feelings.

Another important technique for treating bipolar disorder is relaxation exercises. A therapist will teach you to relax to manage some of the anxiety and physical discomfort that may accompany the disorder. Breathing exercises, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) are common relaxation exercises that improve your ability to manage symptoms.

Mindfulness is another way to deal with some of the negative emotions you may be experiencing. Mindfulness is a technique that teaches you to recognize your emotions and be present with them without over- or under-reacting. It is very useful for those suffering from depression or hypomania.

Supportive therapy is also often required, particularly when the diagnosis is made for the first time. My motto is: “Smart people have therapists.” It is advisable to have an objective, knowledgeable person to talk to as you learn how bipolar disorder is affecting your life. A therapist can help you process the emotions you are experiencing and accept the diagnosis. Supportive therapy can also help with important things like establishing a healthy routine to manage symptoms.

A healthy daily routine is very important to treat and recognize symptoms. The better you are able to maintain a daily routine, the easier it is to notice when an episode of depression or mania begins. A routine will also help you keep yourself balanced.

Keeping a daily mood chart is one way to determine if your mood is starting to change and if there are triggers or patterns for your mood changes. A therapist can help you identify the important aspects to include in your daily chart. Seeing how your mood changes is one way to help yourself manage symptoms and prevent you from becoming “blindsided” by an episode.

Diet and exercise can also help treat bipolar disorder. Daily exercise can help reduce the number of depressive episodes. Likewise, a low-carb diet high in omega-3 can help stabilize mood swings. You can speak to a doctor, nutritionist, or therapist to learn more about nutritional options.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is another widely used method for treating bipolar disorder that does not respond to medication. ECT involves electrical shocks to the brain performed in a controlled environment by a trained doctor.

You are not expected to know how to manage the symptoms of this disorder just because you have been diagnosed. Never be afraid or ashamed to ask friends, family, doctors or therapists for help. People with bipolar disorder can lead healthy and productive lives when treated with the right medications and taught behavioral skills to manage symptoms.

Inspired by Shannon Rice