Bipolar disorder is a mental health illness that causes people to experience dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and ability to function. People with bipolar disorder can go from severe highs to depressive lows. It is also a lifelong illness, meaning it will affect your life as long as you live. It can cause a lot of problems with relationships, work, and your personal life.
Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder
If you are suffering from bipolar disorder or believe you may have bipolar disorder, Dr. Keise and the professionals at Insyte Psychiatric can help diagnose your symptoms and find the right treatment plan. Your treatment plan may include medications, talk therapy, and education.
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition. The goal of treatment is to manage the symptoms and allow you to take back control of your life.
Medications for Bipolar Disorder
When properly diagnosed, medications are often prescribed to balance your moods right away. Remember, It is extremely important to follow the dosage instructions. Some medications require that you take them daily regardless of being symptomatic. Consistent medicinal treatment can treat and prevent bipolar episodes. Skipping treatment increases the risk of a relapse of symptoms or having minor mood changes turn into mania or depression.
There are many different types of medications to treat bipolar disorder. Depending on your unique situation, medications can include the following:
- Mood Stabilizers – Used to control manic or hypomanic episodes.
- Antipsychotics – Used to treat depression or mania. Usually prescribed as a supplement in addition to other medications.
- Antidepressants – Used to manage depression that can trigger a manic episode
- Combination of Antipsychocotics & Antidepressants – Combines the effects of mood stabilizers and antidepressants.
- Anti-anxiety Medications – Can help manage anxiety and improve sleep. Usually for only short periods of time.
Talk Therapy for Bipolar Disorder
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is defined as the treatment of mental, emotional, personality, and behavioral disorders using methods such as discussion, listening, and counseling. Talk therapy for bipolar disorder involves meeting with a mental health professional regularly to address your feelings, thoughts, and symptoms. Individual therapy is a great way to work through your thoughts and feelings in a safe and private environment. During your therapy sessions, your psychiatrist can help you better understand your symptoms and teach you coping skills to help you process through a bipolar episode.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on changing negative thought patterns by analyzing and changing your responses to uncomfortable situations or emotional distress. Dr. Keise will guide you through a progressive treatment plan that finds solutions and practices to change your behavior and thoughts.
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT)
IPSRT focuses on establishing daily rhythms such as sleeping, eating, and exercising. A consistent routine has shown to be beneficial to better mood management.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle behaviors and habits may worsen the symptoms of bipolar disorder. The following are a few areas that can support your medication and therapy efforts.
- Quit drinking and using recreational drugs.
- Form healthy relationships.
- Create a healthy routine.
- Keep and share a medication list with your doctor.
- Track your mood and analyze triggers.
Do not let bipolar disorder stop you from living your life and schedule your appointment at Insyte Psychiatric today.
