Bipolar Disorder Treatments

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a serious psychiatric illness that causes extreme changes in energy, mood and functioning. These changes can manifest themselves in either a dramatic or subtle fashion and tend to vary greatly over the course of a person's life as well as among individuals afflicted with the disorder. Mania is the word used to describe the activated phase of the disorder, and its symptoms include either an elated, happy mood, or an angry, unpleasant mood, racing thoughts, increased activity and energy, risk taking and impulsive behaviors. Depression is the other phase of the disorder, and its symptoms include prolonged sadness, loss of energy, restlessness, inability to concentrate, feelings of hopelessness, changes in appetite, changes in sleep patterns and suicidal thoughts. Bipolar disorder is a chronic and generally life- long condition. Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, it is a treatable and manageable illness. After a diagnosis is made, most people can achieve an optimal level of wellness with a combination of medication and psychosocial therapy.

Using medication to treat bipolar disorder

A number of different medications are used to treat bipolar disorder. If one does not work, there are others to try. Doctors may even advise patients to take a combination of drugs to get the best results. The most widely prescribed mood stabilizer is lithium. Lithium is very effective at removing the extreme highs and lows associated with bipolar disorder and has a history of safe use covering many years. Anticonvulsants are also used to help stabilize moods. Popular anticonvulsant medications used to treat bipolar disorder include valproic acid, divalproex and lamatrogine.

Using psychotherapy to treat bipolar disorder

Psychotherapy is aimed at alleviating the core symptoms of bipolar disorder, recognizing episode triggers, reducing negative emotions in relationships and practicing the factors that lead to maintenance of remission. Cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy and group therapy have all proven effective in treating bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is a very serious disease that afflicts millions of people throughout the world. While there is no cure for the disease, there are a number of medications that can help individuals living with the disorder lead happy lives. The best way to treat bipolar disorder is to combine prescription medication with psychosocial therapy.

Bipolar disorder it is a treatable and manageable illness

by John Klinger, Medical writer