Online Counseling Blog

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder involves long-term preventive treatment because people with bipolar disorder need substantial stabilization of their mood swings. The best treatment for bipolar disorder is a combination of medication and psychotherapy which also encompasses psychosocial education. Treatment needs to be continuous, rather than on and off.  Ongoing support is needed after a person is diagnosed with bipolar disorder, because it may take a while to find the best treatment plan for each individual with medications, therapies and support groups.

Medications

Medications for bipolar disorder are mostly known as “mood stabilizers” and are typically prescribed by a Psychiatrist who is a Medical Doctor with expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.  There are several different types of mood stabilizers available.  Usually a person begins treatment taking a mood stabilizer which will be used for extended periods of time (usually for many years) and then other medications can be added if needed for break through mania or depression symptoms.  Work closely with your Psychiatrist and if a sudden change in mood occurs, report it immediately to prevent a full-blown episode by making adjustments to your medication management treatment plan.

Psychosocial Treatment

Psychosocial treatment can help in connection with medications for bipolar disorder.   It can provide education, support and guidance to people with bipolar disorder including their family members.  Psychotherapy, often referred to as “talk” therapy, can help with increased mood stability, fewer hospitalizations, and improve functioning in several areas including family, work and social interactions.  A licensed counselor or psychologist can provide these therapies and often works closely with a psychiatrist to help monitor patients progress.

The four most common types of psychosocial interventions that are used for bipolar disorder include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, psychoeducation and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy.  Another treatment that can be used, if the combination of medication and psychosocial treatment prove ineffective or slow to work and where symptoms of psychosis or suicidality occur, is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).  It is a highly effective treatment for severe depression, manic, and/or mixed episodes and the risks have been significantly reduced with the modern ECT techniques.

Support Groups  

Many people with bipolar disorder benefit from joining support groups.  There may be support groups offered in various different places in the community.  They are usually sponsored by the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI), the National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association (NDMDA) and the National Mental Health Association (NMHA).  Families and friends may also attend these groups and get great benefit and support from these organizations.

Hospitalization

Sometimes a person with bipolar disorder may not realize they need help, especially if they are in the midst of a severe episode.  They may have to be strongly encouraged by family or friends to get an evaluation or treatment and may even have to be hospitalized against their wishes.  If this happens, usually the person is stabilized in the hospital for a few days or so and then referred for ongoing treatment in the community with a psychiatrist and mental health professionals.