Bipolar Disorder Treatment

During the past few years, society has been paying an increasing amount of attention to mental health disorders. Some of the most common mental health disorders that people suffer from are depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. 

According to information published by the Mayo Clinic, the exact cause of bipolar disorder is not yet known; however, the disorder itself can still be effectively treated. For those who are looking for help with bipolar disorder, there are a few key points to keep in mind.

An Overview of Bipolar Disorder: The Symptoms

According to information that has been published by the National Institutes of Mental Health, bipolar disorder is relatively common. Some of the key statistics include:

  • Just under three percent of adults in the United States have suffered from bipolar disorder in the past year
  • Over four percent of people in the United States will suffer from bipolar disorder at some point in their lives
  • Bipolar disorder is relatively evenly distributed between males and females

The sooner bipolar disorder is diagnosed, the faster it can be treated. Therefore, it is important to spot the symptoms of bipolar disorder as early as possible. Individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder swing between episodes of mania and episodes of depression. Some of the symptoms of mania, also referred to as a manic episode, include:

  • The ability to go without sleep for several days at a time
  • A total loss of inhibition which leads to shopping sprees, drug use, and other dangerous decisions
  • Feelings of euphoria

Then, people swing toward episodes of depression, which include symptoms such as:

  • A loss of enjoyment in activities that used to bring pleasure
  • Changes in sleep and eating habits
  • Emotional irritability
  • Thoughts of suicide

The good news is that bipolar disorder can be treated.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment and Challenges

The treatment of bipolar disorder is a combined approach using approved psychiatric medications and psychotherapy. Typically, the medications used to treat bipolar disorder are mood stabilizers, which include valproic acid (Valproate) and lithium. These medications are combined with psychotherapy, which helps people effectively manage bipolar disorder. Usually, it takes between one and two months for patients to start feeling full effects of treatment; however, those who are able to adhere to the treatment plan usually experience positive results.

There are a few challenges that patients are going to face when bipolar disorder treatment starts. These include:

  • Individuals with bipolar disorder need to get used to their mood feeling more stable
  • Patients will have to find a treatment routine that works for them
  • Individuals with bipolar disorder have to take their medications for life

The good news is that, with proper support, the prognosis of bipolar disorder is positive.

Living with Bipolar Disorder

For those who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it is important to develop routines that accommodate the treatment plan. Then, individuals with bipolar disorder have to stick to them. It is important to understand that going off of the routine, even for a few days, can cause the manic and depressive episodes to return. Even though people with bipolar disorder feel better once they take their medications, this does not mean that bipolar disorder has been cured. They need to keep taking their medications to stay that way.

Getting Help for Bipolar Disorder

There is nothing wrong with asking for help. With treatment, the prognosis of bipolar disorder is favorable because most people respond well to the combined approach of medications and therapy. It is critical to see a specialist who can more reliably diagnose, treat, and manage individuals with bipolar disorder. This is why primary care providers always refer patients with bipolar disorder to a specialist. That is where we can help.

Call Jonas Hill Hospital for Help

At Jonas Hill Hospital, we are proud to take care of patients with a wide variety of mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder. You are heard here. Our goal is to work with our patients and families to find a treatment plan that will effectively treat all facets of someone’s health and well-being. This includes mental health conditions. To learn more about how we can help you, please call us today at 828-394-6722.

 

Jonas Hill Hospital & Clinic a division of Caldwell Memorial Hospital provides our community with safe, dignified and integrated care for adult patients experiencing an acute mental health need. We provide hope, treatment, and healing through a holistic program of evidence-based psychiatric treatment, team-based medical care, and education provided by engaging and dedicated professionals in a safe and healing environment. Contact Jonas Hill Hospital and Clinic today at (828) 394-6722 for more information.