Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

With all the medical advancements of the present generation, it is indeed alarming that there is no sure-shot bipolar disorder cure. There are various methods of treatment for bipolar disorder that have been used but none of them can be termed as a one-for-all solution. Bipolar disorder remedy is a rather subjective treatment so it does require each case to be treated individually.

From all the approaches that have been used in the past, the two major options for bipolar disorder cure include:

1. Treatment by medication
2. Treatment by therapy

Treatment For Bipolar Disorder With Medication

When it comes to treatment for bipolar disorder with the help of medication, mood stabilizing medication are usually the first option taken up by most doctors and a stress quiz. In fact, there are patients who are kept under mood stabilizing medication for years together. Some of the most popular mood stabilizing medications includes lithium, valproic acid, divalproex sodium, lamotrigine, Neurontin, topiramate and oxcarbazepine. Some common side effects including drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, diarrhea, constipation, heartburns etc. are associated with these drugs so they must be taken under strict medical supervision.

On the other hand, atypical antipsychotic medications are also used for bipolar disorder cure. However, these medications are often paired up with several other medications for maximum effect. For example, the drug olanzapine is administered along with antidepressants since it is highly effective in fighting symptoms of manic episodes. The same applies to drugs such as aripiprazole, quetiapine, risperidone and ziprasidone. Some common side effects of these drugs include drowsiness, skin rashes, sensitivity to the sun, rapid heartbeat, blurred vision, dizziness etc.

Antidepressant medication is also used to take care of the depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder and relationship stress as well. These are often used with atypical antipsychotic medications to get a balanced bipolar disorder remedy. Drugs such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, bupropion and sertraline are popular in this respect. Antidepressants also have some side effects such as agitation, sleep problems, sexual problems, nausea, headaches etc.

Psychotherapy For Bipolar Disorders

Though medications are quite effective in treating symptoms on the surface of mood swings, there is still a requirement for deeper solutions because the mind does indeed run in multiple layers. Psychotherapy, which predominantly consists talking to the patient, is a must along with medical treatment. This therapy is used to provide guidance, support and direction to patients as well as friends and family members. The following are the primary methods of bipolar disorder remedy through psychotherapy.

– Cognitive Behavior Therapy is used to help people learn methods to change negative or harmful thought patterns.

– In Family Focused Therapy, family members are included in the treatment process. This approach enables the family to be a part of the treatment and create a favorable environment for recovery of the patient.

– In social rhythm therapy, the patient is taught to deal with other people and manage daily routines by reducing dysfunctional thoughts and behavior.

– Psycho-education is used to educate bipolar disorder patients about the various aspects of their disorder so they can deal with it in a more functional and constructive manner.