Bipolar Disorder Treatment: An Overview
In most cases,
bipolar disorder treatment is much better controlled if it is continuous rather than if it is on and off. But even when there are no breaks in
bipolar treatment, mood changes can occur and should be reported immediately to your doctor. The doctor may be able to prevent a full-blown episode by making adjustments to the treatment plan. Working closely with the doctor and communicating openly about treatment concerns and options can make a difference in the effectiveness of bipolar treatment.
Keeping a chart of daily mood symptoms, treatments, sleep patterns, and life events may help people with bipolar disorder and their families to better understand the illness. This chart also can help the doctor track and treat the illness most effectively.
Changes to the bipolar disorder treatment plan may be needed at various times during the course of bipolar disorder to best manage the illness. A psychiatrist should guide any changes in the type or dose of medication.
Bipolar Disorder Treatment Options
Effective bipolar disorder treatment involves a combination of:
- Medications
- Psychosocial treatments.
Bipolar Medications
Medications known as "mood stabilizers" are usually prescribed to help control bipolar disorder. Several different types of mood stabilizers are available. In general, people with bipolar disorder continue treatment with mood stabilizers for extended periods of time -- even years. Other medications are added when necessary, typically for shorter periods, to treat episodes of mania or
depression that break through despite the mood stabilizer.
(Click Bipolar Medications for more information on medicines available to treat this condition.)
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