Bipolar disorder, sometimes called manic depression, is a mental health condition that involves behaviors that fluctuate between serious depression and mania, or an emotional "high." Bipolar disorder usually results from a chemical imbalance in the brain, and requires treatment and supervision from a medical professional. Bipolar disorder can be successfully treated with a combination of therapy and medications to control the emotional highs and lows.
Step 1
Get a diagnosis. Bipolar disorder needs to be diagnosed by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. A physical exam, physical tests and a mental health exam can help to diagnose bipolar disorder, and the doctor can recommend the best combination of treatment.
Step 2
Start antidepressant medications. Antidepressant medications are often needed to help alleviate the depressive mood swings characteristic of bipolar disorder. However, the Mayo Clinic notes that they aren't always prescribed or recommended because they can increase episodes of mania.
Step 3
Take mood-stabilizing medications. Most often, says the Mayo Clinic, mood stabilizers are prescribed to even out the wildly swinging moods that occur with bipolar disorder. Lithium and other mood stabilizers are often the first medication prescribed to help treat the condition, and can alleviate both depressive and manic episodes.
Step 4
Try antipsychotics and other medications. There are many other medications available that may be prescribed to help treat bipolar disorder. Antipsychotic drugs, such as risperidone and olanzapine, may help, as well as anti-anxiety drugs such as benzodiazepines, according to the Mayo Clinic. Anti-seizure medications, called anticonvulsants, can also help to stabilize the fluctuating moods of bipolar disorder.
Step 5
Seek therapy. Medication alone isn't enough to treat bipolar disorder; therapy is needed in addition to medication to help manage symptoms. Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," can help an individual learn to manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder, according to the Mayo Clinic. Cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches how to rid the mind of negative thoughts and focus on more positive ones, is also an effective therapy for bipolar disorder.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to someone about your symptoms and emotions, and seek help for bipolar disorder.
- Seek immediate help and medical attention if you have thoughts of suicide.
Things You'll Need
- Antidepressants
- Mood-stabilizing medications
