Treating Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder results in extreme mood swings that can greatly disrupt your life. These symptoms may cause you distress. But with treatment, you can lead a more normal life.

Medicines

Bipolar disorder is often treated with medicines that stabilize moods. They help you feel better by keeping your moods more even, and help prevent future mood swings. Sometimes you may also be prescribed medicines that treat depression. Take your medicine as prescribed. All medicines can have side effects. If you’re troubled by side effects, tell your healthcare provider. But don’t stop taking your medicine until your healthcare provider tells you. If you do, your symptoms will likely come back.

Talk therapy (psychotherapy)

Talking to a therapist or counselor may be part of your treatment. Having bipolar disorder can make it hard to hold a job or go to school. It can create stress for both you and your loved ones. A therapist can teach you how to cope with bipolar disorder. This can help you lessen manic or depressive episodes, or even prevent them. Your therapist can help you work out problems and heal relationships. He or she can also provide support when you need it most.

Friends and family

Those closest to you may also need support. There are many groups for families of people with bipolar disorder. Learning more about this disorder can help your loved ones cope. It can also help them take an active role in your care.

Looking ahead

People with bipolar disorder have periods with no symptoms. But it is a chronic illness that requires lifetime care. Just as with heart conditions or diabetes, bipolar symptoms can return or treatments many need to be changed. Ongoing professional support is key to effective long-term management. Much research is being done on bipolar disorder. This research may lead to improved treatments and hope for a better future.