Can bipolar be treated without meds

Natural Remedies for Treating Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder involves extreme shifts in mood, energy, and levels of activity. Medications can help people manage symptoms, but these can have adverse effects. A number of natural remedies may also help.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) estimate that around 2.6 percent of people in the United States have bipolar disorder, and nearly 83 percent of cases are severe. On average, it starts when a person is 25 years old.

A person with bipolar disorder experiences times of severe depression and times of mania, or “high” mood. The risks during a low mood include an inability to function at work and in other areas of life.

During mania, the person may be at risk of making reckless decisions. If the mood becomes too high or low, psychosis can develop.

There is no cure for bipolar disorder, but treatment enables people to manage it. Some lifestyle adaptations can also help, alongside the medication.

Lifestyle changes

Counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and a range of lifestyle changes can help people with bipolar disorder to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Sleep

Bipolar disorder can disrupt a person’s sleep. During a manic phase, an individual may sleep very little, but during a low phase, they may sleep for a long time.

Missing sleep can trigger a mood change, and getting enough sleep is essential to managing mood.

Good sleep hygiene can encourage people with the condition to have regular sleep.

Tips include:

going to bed and getting up at regular hours
making sure the room is comfortable
avoiding screen time and potentially stressful situations before bed
not eating a large meal too soon to sleeping
avoiding or limiting alcohol intake

People with bipolar disorder who have difficulty sleeping should speak to their physician.

Diet

A healthful diet is an important lifestyle habit for a person with bipolar disorder.

A 2011 study found that up to 68 percentTrusted Source of people seeking treatment for bipolar disorder have excess weight or obesity. People with bipolar disorder also had a higher risk of various other conditions, including diabetes, low bone density, and cardiovascular disease.

A healthful diet can help to reduce the risk of these conditions.

In 2013, another study found that people with bipolar disorder are more likely to engage in binge eating than the general population.

This may be a side effect of medication or due to overeating during episodes of depression.

Being overweight can complicate recovery and increase the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and anxiety.

Doctors do not know what causes bipolar disorder, but it may be due to an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. These chemicals, also called neurotransmitters, are noradrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin.

Serotonin can also affect appetite. It may be that when serotonin levels are low, people experience cravings for carbohydrates and sweet foods.

Tips for maintaining a healthful diet include:

keeping to regular eating times
ensuring that the diet is varied, well-balanced, and has plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
making a meal plan for the week, preparing a list before going to the grocery store, and sticking to it

Learning and practicing new recipes during times of positive mood may help a person to establish these habits.

Exercise

Moderate and regular exercise can help to balance mood and prevent a number of health problems, such as obesity and cardiovascular disease.

There is a lack of evidence to show that physical activity can specifically help people with bipolar disorder, but some research suggests it may help to improve mood during a low phase.

A 2015 reviewTrusted Source of studies suggested that exercise “may be a viable and effective strategy to deal with the depressive phase of bipolar disorder. ”

Another review, published in 2016, concluded that “generally, exercise was associated with improved health measures, including depressive symptoms, functioning, and quality of life.”

More studies are needed to find out how much exercise an individual should have, how often, and how intense the activity should be, especially as bipolar disorder involves a number of physical and psychological factors.

Practicing moderation

People with bipolar disorder have a higher risk of engaging in addictive behaviors.

One study found that 56 percent of people with the condition had at some time experienced addiction involving either alcohol or drugs.

Certain circuits in the brain play a role in pursuing rewarding experiences. One study has suggested that people with bipolar disorder have stronger activation in these circuits.

This may be what drives the person towards risky behavior.

The positive side of this, say the authors of the study, is that it encourages people to work with energy toward their goals and ambitions.

On the other hand, it may mean that an individual focuses fully on the short-term rewards of a decision while disregarding the possible long-term risks.

Tips for avoiding these problems include:

becoming more aware of any tendency to engage in risky — for example, addictive — behaviors
seeking help if there is already a problem
asking friends and loved ones to support any decisions to avoid destructive or addictive behaviors

Friends who are aware of the risks might, for example, suggest going to see a movie instead of a bar on a night out.

Managing a manic episode

It is not always possible to prevent a manic episode, but as the condition progresses, the individual and their friends and family may start to notice the signs of a mood change.

Here are some tips when this happens:

See a doctor, if it is the first time, if you have discontinued treatment, or if treatment is not working.
Follow the treatment plan and keep all medical appointments, as medications may need adjusting.
Try to keep to a regular sleeping pattern and avoid unnecessary stress when possible.
Eat a healthful diet and get enough exercise.
Avoid alcohol and other substances.
Keep track of your moods and feelings.

If you have people around you, try to share with them what is happening so that they can support you.

Can A Bipolar Person Live Without Medication?

Home » Treatment » Can A Bipolar Person Live Without Medication?

If you have bipolar disorder, medication may be a vital component of your recovery process. While there is no immediate cure to the condition, the appropriate medication can reduce mood episodes and other symptoms. With the right medicine, the success rate for bipolar treatment in the United States is 80%.

Mental health professionals might prescribe mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, among other things. However, what best works for a patient will ultimately depend on their specific needs.

Due to the growing popularity of home remedies and alternative medicine, you might be wondering if people with bipolar disorder can survive without medication. In this guide, you’ll learn the standard treatment for bipolar disorder, the consequences of going off medication, and how best to sustain your recovery.

What Medications Are Used To Treat Bipolar Disorder?

Doctors typically prescribe at least two different types of medication for people with bipolar disorder. A mixed treatment plan alleviates symptoms of depression while providing mood stability and preventing a manic episode.

Below are common treatments you’re most likely to receive for bipolar disorder:

Mood Stabilizers: Medicines such as Carbatrol, Depakote, Lamictal, and Depakene help prevent mood swings and subdue manic highs and lows. They can also improve social interactions/interpersonal relationships and correct unwanted behaviors.
Antipsychotics: Some people with bipolar disorder experience mild hallucinations. Treatments such as Seroquel, Zyprexa, and Prozac can reduce delusions and correct the severe mood changes that cause them.
Antidepressants: Though antidepressants such as Seroquel and Symbyax effectively treat bipolar depression, patients should never use them alone. One of the risks of monotherapy is that it could trigger an extreme mood change or manic episode. In most cases, the side effects of only taking an antidepressant outweigh its benefits.
Anti-Anxiety Medication: An adult diagnosed with bipolar disorder is also likely to experience anxiety. Anti-anxiety drugs such as benzodiazepines can help mitigate the occurrence of binge eating, poor sleep, hygiene, and moods, and agitation. Central nervous system (CNS) depressants can also help slow brain activity, though they can become addictive and result in sluggishness.

What Happens When A Bipolar Person Doesn’t Take Their Medication?

Mood stabilizers are a long-term treatment that you should not stop taking without your doctor’s advice. Your doctor will likely recommend that you remain on your mood stabilizers for at least two years to reduce the risk of relapse.

Going off your treatment prematurely can also result in the following side effects:

Mania and depression
Irregular moods and irritability
Difficulty sleeping
Withdrawal symptoms such as nightmares, agitation, and panic
Nausea, including other stomach and gut problems
Headaches and dizziness

When coming off your medications, always speak with your doctor first – never stop cold turkey. Some professionals will wean you into a “maintenance dose” over a four to six-week period, depending on how you respond to the reduction.

If you are considering stopping multiple treatments, healthcare professionals will likely wean you off one medication at a time.

Why Do Some People Go Off Their Medication?

Adults who experience severe bipolar disorder will likely have to remain medicated their whole life. However, it’s common for people to go off course with their medications or even stop them entirely. Below are a few common reasons a patient might come off their treatment plan.

Anosognosia

Sometimes, people with bipolar disorder experience anosognosia, or the inability to perceive reality, while on mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, or other related drugs. People with mood disorders experience frequent changes in their frontal lobe, which can hinder the ability to perceive new information. When such confusion occurs, a person’s health might deteriorate.

One telltale sign that you or someone you know is suffering from anosognosia is constant confusion and a lack of awareness. Consider whether you were experiencing these symptoms even before your diagnosis and take note of other side effects.

Side Effects

Nearly all people will experience side effects when taking a new medication. However, the severity of these effects will vary, especially if you suffer from other health problems. A person just getting started on bipolar medication will likely experience side effects like:

Dizziness and nausea
Weight gain
Constant fatigue and sluggishness
Acne and rashes
Muscle spasms

In most cases, these side effects are bearable and will typically stop after a few weeks. But when medication creates significant discomfort, some people quit their treatments without consulting a mental health professional – we highly recommend against this.

Substance Abuse

The majority of people diagnosed with bipolar disorder also suffer from substance abuse, typically to self-medicate. However, increasing drug consumption or alcohol intake while taking mood stabilizers or antidepressants can worsen symptoms.

Your doctor might prescribe a benzodiazepine to prevent these symptoms. Keep in mind that these prescription drugs can also become addictive.

Forgetfulness

Some people lack a daily routine and often forget to take their prescribed medication. Going on and off bipolar medication can be dangerous and exacerbate side effects.

Ultimately, even people who no longer experience erratic moods and psychosis are better off following their medication protocol. Doing so can reduce the chances of developing cardiovascular disease, increase serotonin levels, and make daily life more productive.

How To Stay On Bipolar Medication

The key to a successful program is experimenting with what works and what doesn’t. It also helps to manage your symptoms correctly, so you can eventually reduce the amount of medication you take. Below are a few self-management strategies that can help you retain a healthy routine.

Create A Schedule

If you’re frequently missing doses because of a busy schedule, creating daily reminders can help you stay on top of your medication. If you have trouble setting reminders, enlist the help of a friend or family member who can account for your daily schedule.

Make your routine habitual by taking your medication as soon as you get up or right before bedtime. Use a pillbox or similar type of organizer when taking your pills.

Track Your Progress

Knowing how your medication affects your moods can help you understand how they work and remind you why you need them. Take note of your immediate triggers and how your medicine helps – or doesn’t. The more information you can provide your doctor, the better they can adjust your treatment.

Consider Alternative Options

While often necessary, medication isn’t the only method of treating bipolar disorder. Consider enrolling in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you correct unwanted behavior and replacing bad habits with more positive ones. Social rhythm therapy is another remedy you’ll want to consider if you struggle to maintain interpersonal relationships.

Make The Right Lifestyle Changes

Making the appropriate lifestyle changes not only mitigates manic episodes and reduces the chances of experiencing an unwanted side effect – it also improves your quality of life.

For example, a regular meal plan rich in omega-3 fatty acids can enhance your health and mood. Even little things such as using a meditation app or mood tracking technologies to keep up with your progress can help keep you motivated.

You should also develop a healthy routine that works with your schedule and preferences. This might include daily exercise or conversations with a loved one.

The Bottom Line

No two people experience bipolar disorder in the same way. However, most (if not all) patients can benefit from taking medication. Prescription drugs are essential to recovery. By taking your pills as prescribed and incorporating healthy habits into your routine, you can live a perfectly functional life.

If you or someone you know has bipolar disorder, reach out to our experts at Transformations Treatment Center by message, email, or phone. We provide health information and treatment strategies, so that your diagnosis doesn’t hinder your daily activities.

Treatment of bipolar disorder: what methods and drugs do doctors use?

Modern psychiatry is represented by new generation drugs, innovative approaches in psychotherapy. They are used in bipolar disorders. Patients should not be treated as if they were depression or schizophrenia - the drug regimen is selected depending on the phase and condition of the patient. If we are talking about depression, antidepressants are selected, if about mania, they are contraindicated, anxiolytics and sedatives are prescribed.

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Bipolar personality disorder is quite complex in terms of the treatment of the disease. Building a therapy strategy can only be entrusted to an experienced psychiatrist. In no case should patients self-medicate, as this may lead to a worsening of the condition. Treatment is primarily medical, but psychotherapy and lifestyle changes are also recommended. The treatment regimen is selected by the doctor individually, depending on the characteristics of the course of the disease and the psychotype of the patient. Abuse of antidepressants or refusal to take medications with a temporary improvement in well-being can lead to complications, so the patient should be constantly under the supervision of the attending physician.

Treatment of bipolar disorder: what methods and drugs do doctors use?

If you or someone close to you suffers from bipolar disorder, do not delay seeking qualified help. The sooner you start treatment, the higher your chances of success. Timely and effective treatment of bipolar disorder relieves its symptoms, reduces the frequency and intensity of mood swings, and helps to live a normal life. In a previous article on bipolar disorder, I have already looked at the general aspects of this disorder. Today's post is entirely dedicated to the treatment of bipolar disorder. In this regard, before you start reading, I will answer the most common question: Can bipolar disorder be cured on its own? The short and simple answer is NO! You can greatly help the treatment, make the process easier and more effective, but nothing more. For non-believers, I'll explain why. If the fact of the disease is established, then it manifested itself through the symptoms. Symptoms are what we see. Therefore, the disease takes over the mind, since we see its manifestations. If a person could suppress the manifestation of symptoms by willpower, then no one would ever know about any disease, that is, it would not exist. Any person experiences different emotions from time to time, but as long as he can control them, he is mentally healthy. If emotions take over and control the consciousness of a person, he is sick. How can a sick person fight on his own with what he cannot control? - No way! In this case, it is impossible to do without outside help.

Overview of bipolar disorder and its treatment

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition. Its manifestations are always unpredictable, so "ups" and "downs" alternate without any apparent pattern. If treatment is delayed, these ups and downs can be devastating. The recurring episodes of manic and depressive phases that characterize the disease make it difficult to lead a normal, stable, and productive life. In a manic phase, you may be hyperactive and irresponsible; in a depressive phase, it may be difficult for you to do anything at all. Early diagnosis and treatment will undoubtedly help to avoid these problems. The success of treatment for bipolar disorder depends on a number of factors. Medications alone are not enough. In order to get the most out of your treatment, it is very important to educate yourself and educate yourself about your illness, communicate with doctors and psychologists, and provide yourself with a strong support system to lead a healthy lifestyle and stick to your treatment plan. The healing process for bipolar disorder is long and will not happen overnight. Like the mood swings of bipolar disorder, treatment too will have its ups and downs. Finding the right treatment will take time, and failures happen along the way. But with proper attention to the disease, as well as a consistent commitment to the desire to improve your condition, you can take control of the symptoms of bipolar disorder and live life to the fullest. What can you do to feel better? Know the difference between the symptoms of the disease and the characteristics of your psyche. The professionals you turn to for help can help separate your personality traits from the symptoms of the disease, which will allow you to recognize in which cases changes in your behavior are caused by the disease and which are not. To do this, you must be open and honest about your behavior, because you will have to monitor it in order to improve the recognition of episodes of bipolar disorder. · Educate your family members and involve them in the process of fighting the disease. Your loved ones can help identify symptoms and monitor your behavior. They will also motivate and support you, which will certainly allow you to deal with future crises much more effectively. · Lead a healthy lifestyle. A normal and healthy lifestyle, including regular sleep, a healthy diet, the absence of alcohol, drugs and risky behavior is one of the main conditions for recovery. Develop an individualized treatment plan. Talk to your doctor about your medications, especially side effects that may be bothering you. There are many options for drug exposure and there is always plenty to choose from. It is very important to consult with specialists before making any changes in the treatment process, from the set of medications used, the schedule for taking them, and ending with the daily routine.

Accurate diagnosis of bipolar disorder

Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is the first step in the successful treatment of bipolar disorder. This is not always easy to do. The mood swings of bipolar disorder can be difficult to distinguish from other mental health problems such as depression, ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), or borderline personality disorder. For many people with bipolar disorder, it takes years and multiple visits to the doctor before the problem is identified and properly diagnosed. Correctly diagnosing bipolar disorder can be difficult even for qualified professionals, so it is better to consult a psychiatrist with experience in the treatment of bipolar disorder, and not just a psychotherapist in an outpatient clinic or a local doctor. An experienced psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of bipolar disorder is likely to be much better informed about the latest research in the field and advanced treatments. He also probably maintains contact with other specialists, which will make your treatment more effective. What to expect from the diagnosis? A diagnostic evaluation for bipolar disorder typically consists of the following: · Psychiatric evaluation - a complete psychiatric history (data collection and medical history) will be taken by a medical specialist. You will answer questions about your symptoms, tell your history of concerns, any treatment you may have received in the past, and your family history of mood disorders. · Physical Examination and Investigations – There are no specific laboratory tests to detect bipolar disorder. But the doctor must take a medical history and conduct a series of tests to rule out diseases or medications that may be causing your symptoms. For example, screening for thyroid disorders is especially important, as thyroid problems can cause mood swings that mimic the symptoms of bipolar disorder. In addition to a psychiatric evaluation and physical exam, your doctor may talk to family and friends about your mood and behavior. Very often, people around you can give a more accurate and objective picture of your symptoms. Diseases and drugs that can mimic symptoms of bipolar disorder Thyroid disorders Corticosteroids Antidepressants Adrenal disorders (eg, Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome) Anxiety drugs Drugs for Parkinson's disease Vitamin B12 deficiency Neurological disorders (e.g. epilepsy, multiple sclerosis)

Types of Bipolar Disorder

I have already covered the types of this disorder in the article Bipolar Disorder, which you can read if some of the terms are not clear to you. But in order not to refer those who know what is at stake to another publication, I will once again remind you of the types of bipolar disorder, only in more detail. Each type of bipolar disorder is defined by the nature of the episodes of mania and depression. Treatment may differ depending on the type of bipolar disorder you have been diagnosed with. · Bipolar I disorder (mania and depression) - Bipolar I disorder is the classic form of the disease and also the most typical type of bipolar disorder. It is characterized by at least one episode of mania or a mixed episode. The vast majority of people with bipolar I disorder also have at least one episode of depression, although this is not necessary for a diagnosis. · Bipolar II disorder (hypomania and depression) - full-blown mania does not appear here. Instead, the illness involves recurring episodes of depression and hypomania (a mild form of mania). In order to be diagnosed with Bipolar II, you must have had at least one episode of hypomania and one major depressive episode. If you have had a manic episode at least once in your life, your diagnosis will be changed to Bipolar I disorder. · Cyclothymia (hypomania and mild depression) - Cyclothymia is a mild form of bipolar disorder. Like any bipolar disorder, cyclothymia is made up of cyclical mood swings. However, the highs and lows are not severe enough to unambiguously qualify as mania or depression. For a diagnosis of cyclothymia, you must experience multiple episodes of hypomania and mild depression over at least a two year period. Since people with cyclothymia are at an increased risk of developing full-blown bipolar disorder, this form of the disease needs to be carefully screened for accurate and timely diagnosis.

Bipolar disorder or depression?

Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed as depression. One reason for this is that most people with bipolar disorder seek help when they are in the depressive phase of the illness. If a person is going through a manic phase, he rarely sees a doctor because he doesn't acknowledge that there is a problem. In addition, in people with bipolar disorder, a significantly greater percentage of the time is spent in depressive phases than in manic or hypomanic phases. Misdiagnosed, bipolar disorder is a potentially dangerous problem because the treatment for bipolar depression is different from that for regular depression. In fact, antidepressants used to treat regular depression can significantly worsen bipolar disorder. Therefore, it is very important to contact a specialist in a timely manner, who will help you understand what is really happening. Signs that your depression is really bipolar disorder: · Episodes of depression are recurring. · You had your first episode of depression before the age of 25. · You have a relative with bipolar I disorder. · When you are not depressed, your mood and energy levels are higher than those of most other people. · When you are depressed, you sleep a lot and overeat. Episodes of depression are short (less than 3 months). You lose touch with reality when you are depressed. · You have had a case of postpartum depression. · You have had episodes of mania or hypomania while taking antidepressants. · Your antidepressants stopped working a few months after you started taking them. · You have tried 3 or more antidepressants without success, but nothing worked for you.

Treatment options for bipolar disorder

If your doctor determines that you have bipolar disorder, they will offer treatment options and possibly prescribe medication. You may also be referred to other specialists for advice and development of an individual treatment plan.

Comprehensive treatment for bipolar disorder

Comprehensive treatment plan for bipolar disorder aims to: Relieve symptoms Restore the ability to act and solve problems both at home and at work Reduce the chance of relapses A complete treatment plan includes: Medications - Medications are the backbone of the bipolar disorder treatment process. By taking stabilizing drugs, you minimize the "ups" and "downs" and retain the ability to manage the situation. · Psycho1therapy - necessary to deal with bipolar disorder and the problems that the disease has caused in your life. Working with a doctor, you will learn about how to deal with difficult or unpleasant emotions, reconnect with others, deal with stress, and learn how to manage your mood. · Education - Managing symptoms and preventing complications begins with an in-depth understanding of one's illness. Education is a key component of treatment. The more you and your loved ones know about bipolar disorder, the easier it will be to avoid problems and deal with setbacks. · Lifestyle changes – By carefully following a healthy lifestyle, you can minimize the impact of bipolar disorder symptoms. This includes maintaining a regular sleep pattern, avoiding alcohol and drugs, a consistent exercise program, avoiding conflict, avoiding stressful situations, and maintaining a positive mindset at all times. · Support – Life with bipolar disorder can be challenging, so having a strong support system can help change your outlook and increase positive motivation. Participation in a bipolar disorder support group will give you the opportunity to share your experiences and learn from those who have already gone through the stages that you are just going through now. The support of friends and family is also invaluable.

The role of medication in treating bipolar disorder

Most people with bipolar disorder need medication to keep their symptoms under control. Long-term drug treatment can reduce the frequency and severity of episodes of the disease, and sometimes prevent them completely. If you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, you and your doctor will work together to find the right drug or drug combination that is best for you. Because everyone reacts differently to medications, you may try a wide variety of medications before you find one (or group of medications) that relieves symptoms. Do not take it into your head to "get" medicines and take them - the consequences can be not just bad, but terrible · Visit your doctor regularly. It is important to have regular blood tests to ensure that the blood level of the drug is in the therapeutic range (sufficient for a therapeutic effect, but not so high as to aggravate the situation). Determining the exact dose of medication you need is a constant balancing act between too little and too much, so regular monitoring will help keep you from showing symptoms and keep you healthy. · Continue taking your medicines even if your mood is stable. Do not stop taking your medicines as soon as you start to feel better. Most people need to take medication on a regular basis to avoid relapses. · Don't expect medicines to solve all your problems. For bipolar disorder, medications can help reduce symptoms of mania and depression, but in order to feel better, it's important to lead a lifestyle that supports good health. This includes the support of others, therapeutic treatment and proper rest. · Be extremely careful with antidepressants. Studies show that antidepressants are not particularly effective in treating bipolar depression. In addition, they can cause mania or sudden and frequent jumps between depression and mania.

Psychotherapy as an important part of treatment

People who take drugs to treat bipolar disorder are much more likely to be cured if they also receive medical treatment. In therapy, you will learn how to deal with issues that cause symptoms of bipolar disorder, such as relationship issues and self-esteem. Therapy sessions will address other issues you struggle with, such as substance abuse or anxiety. Particularly useful in the treatment of bipolar disorder are the following three therapies: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy Family Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy sessions, you will learn about how your thoughts affect your emotions, and you will learn to change negative thought patterns into more positive ways of responding. In the treatment of bipolar disorder, the emphasis is on managing symptoms, avoiding relapse triggers, and dealing with problems that arise.

Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy

Interpersonal Therapy addresses the most pressing relationship issues to help you connect better with those around you. This type of treatment aims to reduce stress levels, and since stress is a trigger for bipolar disorder, interpersonal and social rhythmic therapy will help reduce mood swings, making them less frequent and less severe. In the treatment of bipolar disorder, interpersonal therapy is often combined with social rhythm therapy. It has been proven that people with bipolar disorder have an increased sensitivity to biological rhythms. In turn, biological rhythms can be easily disturbed by a mismatch between biorhythms and social rhythms. Social rhythm therapy focuses on stabilizing social rhythms such as sleeping, eating, working hours. When these rhythms are stabilized, the biological rhythms that control mood also remain stable.

Family therapy

Living with a person who suffers from bipolar disorder is very difficult, which leads to tension in family relationships. Family therapy is focused on solving these problems and is aimed at restoring a healthy and supportive home environment. Informing family members about the disease and teaching them how to deal with its symptoms is a major component of family therapy.

Alternative treatments for bipolar disorder

Most alternative treatments for bipolar disorder are actually complementary treatments, meaning they must be used in conjunction with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Here are some useful additions: Day and Night Therapy — Like Social Rhythm Therapy, Day and Night Therapy focuses on the biological rhythms of people with bipolar disorder. This therapy offers assistance in organizing biorhythms by properly adjusting lighting at different times of the day to provide darkness when nighttime rest is needed and light when wakefulness is needed. One of the main components of this therapy is the restriction of daylight or artificial light for ten hours each night. · Focus and Meditation - Research has shown that focus based cognitive therapy and meditation help fight and prevent depression, anger, anxiety, and anxiety. Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and focusing on one's own mind help break down negative thinking patterns. · Acupuncture — Acupuncture is currently being studied as an additional treatment for bipolar disorder. Some researchers believe that it may help people with bipolar disorder by modulating their response to stress. Research on acupuncture in the treatment of bipolar depression has already shown a reduction in symptoms, and every year there is more and more evidence that acupuncture can relieve the symptoms of not only depression, but also mania.

People with bipolar disorder tell how to support them properly

March 30th is celebrated as Bipolar Day around the world. With this disease, it is important to monitor mood changes, which can be difficult to do alone.

The founder of the Bipolar Association, Masha Pushkina, has collected stories of people who are helped by treatment partners.

At the initiative of public organizations that unite scientists, doctors and activists, every year on March 30, World Bipolar Day is celebrated. The date chosen was the birthday of Vincent van Gogh, an artist who, according to researchers, was the embodiment of a "bipolar genius."

With bipolar disorder, a person lives either in a state of high emotional uplift and excitement (mania), or in depression. According to world statistics, about 2% of people suffer from bipolar disorder in various forms. This means that in Russia there are at least three million bipolar people - this is about half of St. Petersburg.

In most cases, this condition responds well to medication. But, unfortunately, many do not seek help or do not know how to find it. Without treatment, the disease progresses and ultimately leads to sad consequences: loss of family, job, disability in general, and in almost every seventh case, suicide.

These consequences can be avoided. The peculiarity of bipolar disorder is that the onset of remission depends not only on the doctor and medications, but also on the behavior of the patient himself. Very often, bipolar people provoke seizures "with their own hands." The mood of people with BAD (bipolar affective disorder. - Note ed. ) is very unstable, the balance is fragile, and mania or depression can be “started” in dozens of ways: the psyche is easily shaken by psychoactive substances, alcohol, lack of sleep, too intense work, travel and even love. So, a short time after the next course of treatment with powerful drugs, the person again ends up in the hospital. And each new attack reduces the chances of a long remission, affects social status, and even more painfully - self-esteem.

The experience of people with mental disorders around the world has proven that you are much more likely to cope with difficulties when you are supported by people who understand your problems and condition, but do not look at you as a patient. As practice shows, such a person can be not only a partner or close relative. An old friend, and even a person with whom you have never met in person, can help you get through the darkest times. Masha Pushkina, especially for Afisha Daily, spoke with several bipolar people about those in whom they found their support. The result is a story not about illness, but about friendship and trust, which can defeat even madness.

Details on the topic

How to live with bipolar disorder

Yana, 31 years old

Housewife, collects books and is fond of confectionery

. I have been sick for 15 years. The first person who looked after me was my best friend, and now it's my husband.

When my hypomania0081 Note ed. ) dispersed into a full-fledged mania (this state is also characterized by a one-sided attraction to some topic, sometimes accompanied by delirium. - Note ed. ), it became clear that I needed to be looked after. A friend began to pay attention to repetitive patterns of behavior in one phase or another, and we decided together to find out what helps in such cases. I think my friend was afraid to take responsibility for my condition, but she turned out to be generous and selfless. When I got married, a friend passed this knowledge on to her husband, and he already supplemented it, based on his own experience. The husband initially knew with whom he connects his life. He says it didn't scare him.

I have obsessions during my manic episodes. My husband does not argue with me at this time, but he also does not feed them, trying to redirect my stormy energy in a different direction. You can’t argue, because the result will be the opposite: I will finally get stuck on the idea, I will consider that I must prove it at all costs, even if the whole world is against me, and there are enemies and conspiracies around. If this does not help, the husband agrees to discuss all these things, but at the same time tries to slow down their implementation by offering to draw up a specific and detailed plan. Sometimes it takes me a long time.

For example, I always want to move somewhere. Right now, and why aren't we packing our things yet? My husband tries to make me write down what are the pros and cons of different cities, what attracts us to them. As a result, I sit for hours on different forums, make lists, think about how we will arrange our life, calculate the budget for different countries of the world. There is also a manic passion for travel, but after preparation, we usually implement these plans. And many years ago, in a fit of mania, I bought an apartment - with a mortgage, with hellish payments. Then it took a long time to resolve this situation, but, fortunately, everything worked out well.

The husband initially knew with whom he connected his life. He says that it did not frighten him

My husband began to keep a graph of my mood. I also manage it, and we check the results so that they are objective. Quarrels due to the fact that the husband takes on the role of the elder often arise in the manic phase (never in depression). Then I become very suspicious, any attempts at control cause rage. But now the husband has learned from experience, so he does not react to attempts to unleash a conflict. With obvious attacks of rage and auto-aggression, he uses holding therapy (long strong hugs. - Note ed. ). We have seen this in autistic children, this is how their parents influence them.

When I'm depressed, he doesn't comfort me because it's pointless, but he tries to give reasonable arguments that this period has always ended and this time will also pass soon. We look at mood charts for the past months, discuss the duration of the attacks: two weeks have already passed and, judging by past experience, it should get better in a couple of weeks.

Such support from the husband helps in many ways. When I was being treated by two doctors, taking all the medicines, I didn’t have such support, everything was very bad. Over time, I stopped disappearing from home in a manic state and inflicting serious injuries on myself. All my super-ideas remain on paper in the form of graphs and tables, I don’t even have time to start putting them into practice, so that later I don’t have to deal with the consequences with the whole family.

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How to behave if a loved one is depressed? Psychologist explains

Alice, 27 years old

Biologist

To be honest, I do not always find understanding from my healthy environment, I often faced condemnation, devaluation of problems. But from a person who has a similar experience, you won’t hear “don’t invent”, “you can’t feel so bad”, “take a walk and it will pass”.

It so happens that my best friend also suffers from bipolar disorder. I did not look for support in specialized communities where patients communicate, we met by chance. My friend is much older, he has much more life experience, and he was able to become a real mentor for me. Not once did his actions worsen my condition - I hope that he can say the same about me.

During periods of upsurge, I find it unpleasant when he tries to slow me down and reduce the degree of passions. But as soon as this state passes and I again take a sober look at the situation, each time I thank him for trying to stop the revelry and disgrace. My friend himself is currently not being treated, but he never imposed his position on me, and when I turn to doctors, he supports me in this.

From a person with a similar experience, you won't hear "don't make it up", "you can't feel so bad", "take a walk - and it will pass"

I told the doctor about this source of support - he is exclusively for it. Before meeting a friend, I had suicidal attempts, but during the entire time of our communication I never tried to say goodbye to life. When you know that there is a person who will understand everything and share warmth (while even my own family repels me), that there is a place where you can come in any condition and where they will accept me without unnecessary questions and teachings, this is a source of great strength. and hope.

When I was expecting my second child, I was depressed. My husband did not yet fully understand the features of the disease and did not want to admit obvious things - this added problems, and my emotional state became extremely difficult. It seems that only thanks to the participation of my friend, I did not do anything to myself and successfully endured the pregnancy. The child was named after him.

Sergey, 49 years old

Freelancer

At the height of the depression, I was looking for any available support and ended up in an online group of anonymous debtors (people who have taken on large loans). One of the participants drew attention to my condition and said that I urgently need medical help. Despite the fact that she lives in the USA, we began to communicate regularly via Skype. Olga literally brought me to the hospital and helped me prepare for the treatment.

Americans are a pragmatic people, many young and healthy people have folders with wills and instructions in case of their death. They also approach mental difficulties calmly and thoroughly. It is common practice for the patient to draw up detailed instructions in advance. In the United States, there is a practice of issuing Treatment Agreements for people with mental illness (Treatment Contract). This document is needed so that family, friends and doctors recognize the symptoms of deterioration in time and take into account your experience and wishes in the treatment. Typically, such a document contains: a list of trusted people; signs of a normal state; signs of an approaching episode; symptoms of mania and depression; actions that trusted people should take to help a person get better and keep him from destructive acts; plan of action in case of an emergency (for example, a suicide attempt). who and what will be done in case of his hospitalization, so that he can be treated without anxiety for household chores.

In a period of severe depression, there is a struggle inside a person between the craving for death and the desire to live - and many external things can outweigh in one direction or another. Every clue is important to help you get out. It is very difficult for one to cope with all this.

I madly didn’t want to go to the hospital and wouldn’t have made up my mind myself, until the last I hoped that somehow everything would go away on its own. But under the supervision of a friend, I drew up a preparation plan: warn the customer at work, arrange to look after my cats. Reported to her about every step. But then he could no longer simply “escape” [from hospitalization], because he felt obliged to both her and the doctor. During depression, one's own life has no value, but the people dear to me, the promises made to them, do.

It is a common practice for a patient to draw up detailed instructions in advance on who and what will be done in the event of his hospitalization

At the most difficult moment, Olga became my “external brain”, who told me what to do when I myself did not understand anything. After I was discharged from the hospital, I turned to four friends for support. Usually we call each other once a week, I tell what my condition is. It is important not only to chat online, but also to hear the voice, you can understand a lot from it. Friends immediately pay attention, if I suddenly disappear and stop calling, then something is wrong.

I think it is possible to find such a person if you set yourself such a goal. Take a closer look at people in support groups, religious or other communities - those who understand what compassion and mutual assistance are. This must be an internally mature person, ready to take responsibility for you in a difficult situation. If this person has similar problems, then he will better understand your experiences. For this reason, relatives are far from always suitable: they themselves can panic, seeing how bad you feel, choke you with their anxiety, overprotection.

It is necessary to establish the frequency of communication and observe it. And of course, in no case should you parasitize on someone else's kindness. The support system works when you yourself take responsibility for your life, and do not outweigh it completely on another.

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Anna and Valeriya, 21

Students

Anna: After a major depressive episode four years ago that nearly ended in a suicide attempt, I started looking for information on [support]. I managed to find a guide in English for relatives and friends on how to behave with such a person. I have sent this list to all my friends so that they have an idea of what is happening to me. For the past few years, Lera has been monitoring my emotional state on a daily basis, and if, in her opinion, it goes beyond the norm, she tells me about it. Lera just asks every day how I'm doing, and if she sees that I'm reacting strangely, she wonders if something happened. At first, it was very difficult, because, in principle, I did not like to regularly share personal experiences. But by regularly receiving feedback, I can imagine the dynamics: do the pills help, how long do the side effects last, does the depressive phase go into a moderate and severe degree, do I lose my critical thinking during hypomania.

Valeria: We gradually established a very trusting relationship. Anya studied the topic of bipolar disorder up and down, and I read the articles that she sent me. The diagnosis did not change anything for me, because it remained the same. After that, we already discussed some formalities (for example, who to call in case of an emergency).

Anna: I asked Lera to watch for hypomanic manifestations in which I lose an adequate assessment of my actions: impulsive night walks, alcohol begin.

Valeria: My friend is a very responsible and conscious girl who takes care of herself, her health and her wallet. Before buying something expensive, she asks for my advice - and then we are already sorting out the situation. We can entrust accounts to each other and not worry. I also know where and to whom to run in cases of exacerbation.

This is not eating each other's emotional resources, but supplementing and supporting

Anna: I react badly to prohibitions and reminders of illness. Yes, I periodically have to turn to relatives for help, change treatment or take long breaks, but I expect mutual respect so that they don’t look at me through the prism of the disease.
When the mood is unstable, harsh phrases like “the disease speaks in you”, “these are not your real emotions” cause persistent rejection, even when they are true. The line between accepting a loved one's illness and identifying him with a diagnosis for healthy people is extremely thin. Therefore, those who were able to grope it deserve great respect.

Anna: In the last year, I go to see the doctor with my parents. When the doctor notices that I may not be able to do it alone, she duplicates the instructions and advice for them. I, in turn, am a friend. The doctor has repeatedly emphasized that the change of episodes is more noticeable from the outside.

Valeria: We don't have any kind of hierarchy in relationships, so there is no pressure when one makes decisions for another. This is not eating each other's emotional resources, but complementing and supporting.

Anna: The main danger in a relationship with a person with a serious illness is to fall into codependency. This format is equally bad for both the "controller" and the "subordinate". Unfortunately, I have been in such relationships before. It is worth maintaining mutual respect and treating each other as equals. Illness should not dominate a relationship. In difficult episodes, it temporarily comes to the fore, but you should always remember that you are not a disease.

Anna: I have memory problems: I don't remember some episodes. In such cases, I can ask Lera for help. If you remember the last weeks, then these are regular reminders to call the doctor. In mixed episodes, this becomes an acute problem, because I can suddenly change my mind or forget. Against the backdrop of a severe episode, I may develop psychosis, and this is the most dangerous thing in the disease. Thanks to our format, I manage to avoid such exacerbations almost always.

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Maria Gantman

Psychiatrist, Candidate of Medical Sciences, Mental Health Center clinic

- this is an early response and the fact that he knows the usual behavior of the patient very well and can notice even small changes.

The main disadvantage is that normal friendly communication risks turning into constant monitoring of symptoms. Not every mentally healthy person is able to remain within the boundaries of reason.

It is important to agree in advance, before an attack, what is an undoubted sign of a worsening condition (for example, persistent insomnia), and what you do not need to pay special attention to (for example, loud indignation at something that you do not like). In a difficult situation, often a loved one begins to behave not as an equal, but as a “healthy” and “knowledgeable”. Not all relationships stand this test.

There is also a variant of "buddy" (when two people with mental disorders look after each other. - Note ed. ) - it is good precisely because it is the true request of the patient and more equal relations without mixing roles. But I don't know the buddy support system.

Alexander Palin

Psychiatrist, psychotherapist

To choose a person you can rely on in a critical situation, look at your surroundings. Above all, a high level of trust is needed. Your assistant should be open to nonjudgmental and open dialogue and at the same time emotionally stable and resistant to stress.

Anna Ushkalova

Psychiatrist

Support is extremely important for every person - very often we, mental health professionals, need it. And with bipolar disorder, this problem is especially acute. At the initial stages, those closest to you often ignore the presence of the disease, and friends advise you to either "pull yourself together" or, conversely, "relax", sometimes with the help of alcohol. When it becomes obvious to everyone that the “condition” will not go away on its own, urgent hospitalization is already required. The saved patient receives the "stigma".

Psychiatrists then make it the responsibility of the uninitiated next of kin (parent or spouse) to monitor any changes in the patient, and they really try to do so. At the level of "laughing out loud - hypomania has begun, upset - depression.

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