Psychological treatment of bipolar disorder focuses on the emotional and behavioral problems of patients through therapy. Sometimes medication is prescribed first for people who need to have their moods under control before therapy begins. While a counselor may conduct therapy, use of medication is supervised by a psychiatrist or medical doctor. Still, talk therapy is an effective treatment for bipolar patients for support and guidance, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Identification
Bipolar disorder, also called manic-depressive illness, is characterized by extreme mood swings, from being overly happy and enthusiastic to becoming very sad or depressed. Symptoms of the manic phase include talking very fast, having racing thoughts, jumping from one subject to another, being restless and behaving impulsively. The depressive phase causes feelings of worry, a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, fatigue, difficulty concentrating and thoughts of death or suicide.
Function
A psychologist, social worker or counselor usually handles psychological treatment of bipolar disorder, the NIMH explains. The mental health professionals may work with a psychiatrist or medical doctor to monitor progress of the patient's therapy. Treatment depends on the individual and the severity of the disorder. Goals of treatment include reducing the severity and frequency of episodes and helping the patient function between episodes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Features
Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most common psychological treatment for bipolar disorder. Patients learn to change their patterns of thinking so harmful or negative thoughts can be rechanneled into positive feelings and behaviors, the NIMH says. Family therapy involves teaching family members to recognize signs of new episodes and to better communicate with the patient. Therapy may also involve improving the patient's relationships with others and managing daily activities. Education plays a major role for the patient and family members to understand the disorder and recognize symptoms.
Warning
No matter how much the patient has progressed, continued treatment is necessary to keep bipolar disorder under control, because it is a lifelong disorder, the Mayo Clinic notes. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary if the patient has suicidal or psychotic thoughts, such as delusions or hallucinations.
Considerations
Some bipolar disorder patients suffer from other disorders as well. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may accompany bipolar disorder, making treatment difficult until it is recognized. Alcohol or drug abuse may also accompany bipolar disorder, making substance abuse treatment necessary to help manage the bipolar problem, the Mayo Clinic says.
Medication
Medication often accompanies the psychological treatment for bipolar disorder. Medication is prescribed by a medical doctor, such as a psychiatrist, and is used during ongoing therapy and treatment. Mood stabilizing drugs help control moods and are usually the first choice of medication, according to the NIMH. Antipsychotic and antidepressant drugs may also be prescribed and are sometimes used with other medications, depending on the condition of the patient. Changes in drugs or doses often occur throughout treatment because of changes that can occur with bipolar patients. The medication is regularly monitored and adjusted.
