Bipolar is a type of mood disorder which is known to affect all aspects of one’s life, which includes your mood; attention; behaviours and energy level. Currently, there is no cure for this disorder, however, the symptoms can be treated. So, it is advised that those who have this disorder are treated once it is discovered, so as to increase the chances of being able to manage it successfully.
Bipolar disorder is a chronic one, which implies that it could last throughout the lifetime of a person. Hence, even if depression fades off, and mania is reduced, there is a huge possibility that they would return if the disorder is not treated.
Treating the symptoms of bipolar disorder, usually requires a mix of psycho-education, psychotherapy and a combination of medication. Some programmes such as Intensive outpatient programmes and hospitalization would also come in handy.
For medication, they are essential in treating bipolar disorder, and below are categories of medications which might be prescribed.
Mood stabilizers
Antidepressants
Antipsychotics
It is necessary to note that, it could take several attempts before you get the medication which would work well for you. You can inform your doctor of all side effects plaguing you, before you stop the use of any medication. It is advised that you should not take medications based on your own volition, which involves either messing with the dosage or stopping its usage completely.
Psychotherapy is another form of treatment which can be applied in treating Bipolar. This treatment is also known as counselling, and ample time is provided for the individual to learn productive strategies which would help to cope with the disorder inherent in regulating the symptoms.
There are also certain values which psychotherapy would teach, such as solving problems effectively, stepping up self-care habits, and building hardiness.
Outpatient treatment is an effective treatment for treating Bipolar, and it involves providing group and individual interventions, peer support, medical support and the likes.
Inpatient treatment involves taking care of a patient in a hospital or a facility, this is usually highly beneficial when the patient has an unstable mood, or if the patient is regularly processing thoughts concerning committing suicide.
Dual diagnosis treatment has its focus on the treatment of both self medicating and bipolar symptoms. It is necessary to always seek medical support in order to solve the symptoms which are often associated with withdrawing from alcohol or drugs use.
