Hi,
Several treatments are available that can help you manage your
bipolar disorder. These include medications, counseling, and lifestyle changes. Some natural remedies may also be helpful.
Medications
Recommended medications may include:
1. mood stabilizers, such as Lithium (Lithobid)
2. antipsychotics, such as
Olanzapine (Zyprexa)
3. antidepressant-antipsychotics, such as Fluoxetine-Olanzapine (Symbyax)
4. benzodiazepines, a type of anti-
anxiety medication such as Alprazolam (Xanax) that may be used for short-term treatment
Psychotherapy
Recommended psychotherapy treatments may include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of
talk therapy. You and a therapist talk about ways to manage your bipolar disorder. They will help you understand your thinking patterns. They can also help you come up with positive coping strategies.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation is a kind of counseling that helps you and your loved ones understand the disorder. Knowing more about bipolar disorder will help you and others in your life manage it.
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) focuses on regulating daily habits, such as sleeping, eating, and exercising. Balancing these everyday basics can help you manage your disorder.
Other treatment options
Other treatment options may include:
1.
electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
2. sleep medications
3. supplements
4. acupuncture
Lifestyle changes
There are also some simple steps you can take right now to help manage your bipolar disorder:
1. keep a routine for eating and sleeping
2. learn to recognize mood swings
3. ask a friend or relative to support your treatment plans
4. talk to a doctor or licensed health care provider
5. Other lifestyle changes can also help relieve depressive symptoms caused by bipolar disorder. Check out these seven ways to help manage a depressive episode.
Some natural remedies may be helpful for bipolar disorder. However, it’s important not to use these remedies without first talking with your doctor. These treatments could interfere with medications you’re taking.
The following herbs and supplements may help stabilize your mood and relieve symptoms of bipolar disorder:
1. Rhodiola Rosea. This research also shows that this plant may be a helpful treatment for moderate depression. It may help treat depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder.
2. S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe). SAMe is an
amino acid supplement. The research shows it can ease symptoms of
major depression and other mood disorders.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Sanjay Kini,
General & Family Physician