Although several types of bipolar disorder exist, bipolar I is the classic form and produces the most severe symptoms, according to HelpGuide. A person with this type has manic or mixed episodes that last at least seven days, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Depressive episodes often occur, lasting a period of two weeks. A variety of treatments are available, but it may take time to find the most effective combination.
Medication
In some cases, one medication may be effective in treating bipolar I. Finding the right medication may be take time, and for some people, doctors may recommend using a combination of medications for maximum efficacy. The most common medications include lithium, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, Symbyax and benzodiazepines.
Lithium helps stabilize moods and prevent the extreme highs and lows bipolar I causes. Anticonvulsants--otherwise known as seizure medications--help stabilize moods as well, and may be helpful in treating the mixed episodes found in bipolar I, according to the Mayo Clinic. While antidepressants can trigger a manic episode, they may be safe when taken with a mood stabilizer such as lithium. Antipsychotics are typically given to those who see no benefits from anticonvulsants. Symbyax is a combination of an antidepressant and antipsychotic; it works for those who suffer from the effects of depression while stabilizing their mood simultaneously. Benzodiazepines help improve the sleeping patterns of those with bipolar I, as too little sleep can increase manic episodes.
Therapy
For maximum effectiveness, doctors usually prescribe therapy in combination with medication. A number of therapies are available, all of which serve their own purpose for each individual.
Cognitive behavioral therapy assists patients by replacing unhealthy beliefs and behaviors with positive thoughts and behaviors. The most common type of therapy, it also helps patients determine what triggers their episodes so they may gain control over their illness.
Family therapy includes members of a patient's family, reducing stress within the family by increasing communication to help resolve conflict in a positive manner.
Group therapy is just as it sounds. It enables patients to learn coping techniques from fellow group members while forming positive relationships and better relationship skills.
Hospitalization
In some instances, those with bipolar I suffer such severe symptoms that hospitalization is necessary. These patients may benefit from psychiatric treatment at a hospital, as they remain safe as the staff works to stabilize their mood during a severe manic or deep depressive episode, according to the Mayo Clinic. For some, partial hospitalization and day treatment programs are a possibility when support is needed as control of symptoms are regained.
