Can bipolar be treated without medication?

Answer 1

Bipolar disorder is a seriously debilitating conditon that can be life-threatening. You will find all sorts of information on the Web about people who claim to be able to control their symptoms (or other people's) non-medically. While much of this information is well-intentioned -- and some of it is designed to separate you from your money -- it is not necessarily applicable to individuals.

Each person has different brain chemistry. When it allows us to function without help, that's great. But sometimes the balance is a bit off, and we need medication to bring things back into line.

The answer to your question, therefore is "yes," it can be treated without medication, but there is only a small chance that such treatment will be as effective as it would be if supported by medication. Given the dangerous aspects of bipolar disorder, we cannot recommend it.

Answer 2

This is something that should be discussed with a psych doctor, who would explain how bipolar medications work. Bipolar mood disorder can be very debilitating and requires medication to stabilise the extreme highs and lows of the illness.

If it is any help to you, a close relative of mine has been on lithium for 15 years and it completely changed her life from one of misery, to one of being able to manage and run her life well.

This illness should NOT be managed without the help of a doctor. If a person had Parkinson's Disease or Multiple Sclerosis, they would seek the help of a doctor. So it should be with bipolar mood disorder.

Answer 3

Not really, as this condition is quite serious. To deal with most mental disorders you need theraphy and medication. A few changes in your lifestyle may be desirable too.

Answer 4

Yes, with tablets.

Answer 5

usually not