Bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, affects over 10 million Americans. Symptoms include severe mood swings described as high (manic) or low (depressive). Individuals diagnosed with bipolar struggle with relationships, academics and careers due to the fluctuations of their moods, energy levels and behaviors. Treatment options vary according to the severity of the mental illness and each individual's treatment plan.
Options
Bipolar treatment options include medications--usually mood stabilizers or anti-seizure medication--and psychotherapy--generally cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy.
Goals
With effective treatment, individuals with bipolar encounter fewer episodes of mania and depression. The mood swings that do occur are short-lived.
Side Effects
The medications prescribed to treat bipolar may cause side effects. These include weight gain and an increased risk of high blood pressure and diabetes. In addition, some of these medications may harm a fetus or a nursing child.
Considerations
Even during times of remission, individuals with bipolar must continue treatment. Lapses in medication or therapy may increase the occurrence of manic and depressed episodes. It also may increase the severity of small episodes.
Treatment Trial
The National Institute of Mental Health conducted a treatment study on bipolar patients. The first group underwent short-term psycho educational therapy alone. The second group's treatment included medication along with long-term therapy including cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy. The second group better adhered to their treatment plans, had fewer relapses and stayed well longer.
