Herbs for bipolar treatment

Herbs for Bipolar Disorder: Types, Research, and Benefits

Many people with bipolar disorder consider natural and alternative treatments. Let’s look at the research behind some herbs people use for this condition.

For many people living with bipolar disorder, herbal supplements can be a helpful addition to a traditional treatment regimen.

Herbs may be an attractive option, as they help address common bipolar symptoms that are often untreated or undertreated, such as:

anxiety
insomnia
cognitive difficulties

These symptoms often fall outside the realm of typical bipolar medications.

Another draw is that herbs tend to have fewer side effects than many pharmaceutical drugs.

According to one study, 40% of people with bipolar disorder reported having used complementary and alternative medicines, such as herbs, supplements, homeopathy, or acupuncture.

It’s important to note that some herbs people use to treat bipolar disorder aren’t supported by bipolar disorder-specific research. However, these supplements do have research-backed benefits for certain symptoms that are common in bipolar disorder, such as stress and insomnia.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herb people have used for millennia in Ayurvedic medicine. It’s also known as Indian ginseng, and it may help boost cognition in people with bipolar disorder.

People use ashwagandha to help lower stress, improve stamina, and boost concentration levels.

Ashwagandha belongs to a class of medicinal herbs known as adaptogens, which essentially “adapt” to your body’s needs. These herbs help boost your body’s natural ability to handle mental, emotional, and physical stress.

Many people with bipolar disorder experience cognitive symptoms both during and after mood episodes. These impairments can take a heavy toll on your overall well-being and ability to function.

One study looked at the effects of taking a standardized extract of ashwagandha on cognition in bipolar disorder. A total of 53 participants took 500 milligrams per day of ashwagandha for an 8-week period, adding the supplement to their usual maintenance medications.

As a result, participants experienced significant benefits in three tests of cognition.

The researchers suggest that ashwagandha may help improve auditory-verbal memory, reaction time, and social cognition. It also appears to have a solid safety profile with few potential side effects.

Many people with bipolar disorder experience anxiety and insomnia between mood episodes and even after their primary symptoms are under control.

Valerian is a medicinal herb that people have used as far back as Ancient Greece and Rome. It’s considered a nervine, a type of herb used to help the nervous system.

Research suggests that valerian may be able to help with these symptoms, as the herb appears to act on GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety and insomnia.

Side effects appear to be minimal and may include daytime sleepiness at higher doses.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a lemon-scented nervine in the mint family. It may also address symptoms related to anxiety, memory, and insomnia, which may occur between episodes.

People have used lemon balm for centuries in traditional medicine as a mood enhancer, an astringent, and a fix for nervous headaches, among many other uses.

Research indicates that lemon balm may enhance memory and well-being in some people.

One report showed that a single dose of the herb improved memory function and created a feeling of calmness in healthy participants. When combined with valerian, lemon balm was also shown to reduce test-induced anxiety.

Overall, researchers suggest that lemon balm may have potential to treat mild anxiety and insomnia in people with bipolar disorder.

Rhodiola rosea, or golden root, is an adaptogenic herb that people have used for millennia to relieve depression, fatigue, and stress.

While it’s been shown to have a positive effect on anxiety, some experts warn against using rhodiola in bipolar as it can trigger manic episodes in some people.

Still, other experts suggest that the herb may be helpful for those taking mood stabilizers and who mostly experience depression with only occasional hypomanic symptoms.

Rhodiola is not recommended for people taking antidepressants or monoamine oxidase inhibitors because it can cause serotonin syndrome. This is a cluster of side effects you can experience if high levels of serotonin build up in your body.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include:

irritability
rapid heartbeat
nausea
shivering
diarrhea
dilated pupils

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is another ancient nervine that people have long used to treat anxiety, insomnia, menstruation issues, and burns. Passionflower may act on GABA receptors in the brain and is considered an effective stress reducer.

Research suggests that passionflower may help people with chronic insomnia and memory problems. The herb also shows positive effects when people take it during episodes of anxiety, restlessness, sleeplessness, and depression.

It’s thought to affect depression indirectly by helping reduce stress, which can be a factor that leads to depression. Thus, it’s possible that it may help relieve depressive episodes because of its stress-reducing properties.

Overall, researchers suggest that passionflower may have the potential to alleviate certain psychiatric symptoms, including stress reactivity, insomnia, and anxiety.

American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is another nervine that can help relieve stress and tension. This herb affects your mood by acting on GABA receptors in the brain.

American skullcap has strong antioxidant effects and may help protect against neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Similar to valerian and lemon balm, skullcap may help reduce feelings of anxiety and insomnia.

In one study, 43 healthy participants took 1,050 milligrams daily of American skullcap. They showed an increase in mood with no reduction in cognition or energy levels.

There’s not enough evidence on the effects of skullcap in people with bipolar disorder, or on manic or depressive episodes in particular. Scientists need to delve more deeply into these topics.

The following supplements are nutritional supplements, not herbs, but are worth mentioning due to promising evidence regarding bipolar disorder. These supplements have shown positive results in the treatment of bipolar disorder symptoms.

Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil. The anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil have been shown to reduce depression. In bipolar disorder, omega-3 fatty acids exert a significant improvement in symptoms, according to research.
Certain amino acids. L-taurine, L-theanine, L-tryptophan, and L-tyrosine may be helpful in bipolar disorder.
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). This is the main antioxidant in the brain. Research from 2008 suggests that NAC may help with depressive symptoms. More research is needed in this area as subsequent (and shorter) studies did not show the same effects. NAC also protects the kidneys from toxicity due to lithium, a common medication for bipolar disorder.

Research suggests that cannabis may trigger or worsen manic episodes in people who have bipolar disorder.

Another study shows that the following herbs have triggered manic episodes in some people:

St. John’s wort — may also cause phytotoxicity or serotonin syndrome, especially in people using antidepressants
ginseng (Panax ginseng)
brindleberry (Garcinia cambogia)
ma huang (Ephedra sinica)

Regulation of herbal supplements

Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the dietary supplements they make are safe, including herbal supplements like the ones we list above. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t screen them for safety and effectiveness.

That’s because the FDA considers dietary supplements to be a subcategory of “foods,” not as similar to pharmaceutical drugs.

However, the FDA does require manufacturers to label their dietary supplements accurately according to labeling regulations. The organization will take products off the market if they’re found to be unsafe or if the manufacturer makes claims about them that are misleading or false.

Thus, you can’t be certain an herbal supplement is safe, effective, or contains what the label says it does.

Consider choosing supplements that have been tested by a well-known third-party organization, such as:

ConsumerLab
U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP)
NSF International

The supplements should say so on the label.

Herbal supplements are a helpful option for many people living with bipolar disorder. You may find they work well as a complementary treatment to your traditional treatments. However, they don’t replace regular treatment for bipolar disorder.

It’s important to note that bipolar symptoms vary widely, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Many of these herbs work well because they affect the neurotransmitter systems in your brain. Because of this, it’s wise to use caution when taking them — just as if you were trying a new medication.

Consider speaking with a licensed healthcare professional before trying a supplement to assess possible risks, medication interactions, and the correct dosage. Some herbs can interact with current medications or trigger undesired effects in some people.

Herbs for Bipolar Disorder: Types, Research, and Benefits

Many people with bipolar disorder consider natural and alternative treatments. Let’s look at the research behind some herbs people use for this condition.

For many people living with bipolar disorder, herbal supplements can be a helpful addition to a traditional treatment regimen.

Herbs may be an attractive option, as they help address common bipolar symptoms that are often untreated or undertreated, such as:

anxiety
insomnia
cognitive difficulties

These symptoms often fall outside the realm of typical bipolar medications.

Another draw is that herbs tend to have fewer side effects than many pharmaceutical drugs.

According to one study, 40% of people with bipolar disorder reported having used complementary and alternative medicines, such as herbs, supplements, homeopathy, or acupuncture.

People use ashwagandha to help lower stress, improve stamina, and boost concentration levels.

Many people with bipolar disorder experience cognitive symptoms both during and after mood episodes. These impairments can take a heavy toll on your overall well-being and ability to function.

As a result, participants experienced significant benefits in three tests of cognition.

The researchers suggest that ashwagandha may help improve auditory-verbal memory, reaction time, and social cognition. It also appears to have a solid safety profile with few potential side effects.

Many people with bipolar disorder experience anxiety and insomnia between mood episodes and even after their primary symptoms are under control.

Valerian is a medicinal herb that people have used as far back as Ancient Greece and Rome. It’s considered a nervine, a type of herb used to help the nervous system.

Research suggests that valerian may be able to help with these symptoms, as the herb appears to act on GABA receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety and insomnia.

Side effects appear to be minimal and may include daytime sleepiness at higher doses.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a lemon-scented nervine in the mint family. It may also address symptoms related to anxiety, memory, and insomnia, which may occur between episodes.

People have used lemon balm for centuries in traditional medicine as a mood enhancer, an astringent, and a fix for nervous headaches, among many other uses.

Research indicates that lemon balm may enhance memory and well-being in some people.

Overall, researchers suggest that lemon balm may have potential to treat mild anxiety and insomnia in people with bipolar disorder.

Rhodiola rosea, or golden root, is an adaptogenic herb that people have used for millennia to relieve depression, fatigue, and stress.

While it’s been shown to have a positive effect on anxiety, some experts warn against using rhodiola in bipolar as it can trigger manic episodes in some people.

Still, other experts suggest that the herb may be helpful for those taking mood stabilizers and who mostly experience depression with only occasional hypomanic symptoms.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include:

irritability
rapid heartbeat
nausea
shivering
diarrhea
dilated pupils

Overall, researchers suggest that passionflower may have the potential to alleviate certain psychiatric symptoms, including stress reactivity, insomnia, and anxiety.

American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is another nervine that can help relieve stress and tension. This herb affects your mood by acting on GABA receptors in the brain.

In one study, 43 healthy participants took 1,050 milligrams daily of American skullcap. They showed an increase in mood with no reduction in cognition or energy levels.

There’s not enough evidence on the effects of skullcap in people with bipolar disorder, or on manic or depressive episodes in particular. Scientists need to delve more deeply into these topics.

Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil. The anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil have been shown to reduce depression. In bipolar disorder, omega-3 fatty acids exert a significant improvement in symptoms, according to research.
Certain amino acids. L-taurine, L-theanine, L-tryptophan, and L-tyrosine may be helpful in bipolar disorder.
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). This is the main antioxidant in the brain. Research from 2008 suggests that NAC may help with depressive symptoms. More research is needed in this area as subsequent (and shorter) studies did not show the same effects. NAC also protects the kidneys from toxicity due to lithium, a common medication for bipolar disorder.

Research suggests that cannabis may trigger or worsen manic episodes in people who have bipolar disorder.

Another study shows that the following herbs have triggered manic episodes in some people:

St. John’s wort — may also cause phytotoxicity or serotonin syndrome, especially in people using antidepressants
ginseng (Panax ginseng)
brindleberry (Garcinia cambogia)
ma huang (Ephedra sinica)

Regulation of herbal supplements

That’s because the FDA considers dietary supplements to be a subcategory of “foods,” not as similar to pharmaceutical drugs.

Thus, you can’t be certain an herbal supplement is safe, effective, or contains what the label says it does.

Consider choosing supplements that have been tested by a well-known third-party organization, such as:

ConsumerLab
U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP)
NSF International

The supplements should say so on the label.

It’s important to note that bipolar symptoms vary widely, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Herbs for Bipolar Disorder - WellOnward Russia

October 17, 2008

There are many herbal remedies that you should investigate for. bipolar disorder (manic depression). Although glossy, the new veneer of today's additives can make them look attractive, it's just as important to be a smart consumer in this area as it is with traditional the medicine Disclaimer However, being more informed can be tricky. Drugs approved by the FDA or similar government agencies undergo rigorous testing. Research results and detailed information about these compounds are available in numerous books, online, or directly from the manufacturers.

With additives it is not always so. It seems like every week a different paperback seems like a wild claim for a new antioxidant compound or herbal remedy. These books - not to mention journal articles, websites, and half-inzero friends - sometimes wrap a hypothesis in a thin veneer of science. They may be exposed to misleading studies that misinterpret what appeared in the misleading journals, or that were so badly designed or biased that no journal ever published them.

Additional sellers, and especially those who take part in multi-level marketing schemes, seem to have learned from their predecessors during the travel show days. They have little to lose by making outrageous claims on their products and much to gain financially. Here are just a few of the unsupported claims found in one five-minute sweep of websites selling supplements online.

" Glutathione slows down the clock of aging, prevents disease, and prolongs life.”
"Pycogenol ... drastically relieves Add / ADHD improves the smoothness and elasticity of the skin, reduces inflammation of the prostate and other inflammatory conditions are reduced diabetic retinopathy as well as neuropathy , improves circulation and boosts cell vitality…” [and, according to the website, treats just about anything that can get you!]
"Sage and" bee pollen nourish the brain."
"Soya lecithin It has been found to clear veins and arteries - dissolve cholesterol globule - and thereby increase circulation, alleviate problems of the heart, veins and arteries. He cured a lot of diabetic thickeners, strokes , paralyzed legs, arms and hands! "

Take the time to browse your local store's shelves and you're likely to make a number of questionable products. Some companies try to trick you with sound names, packaging that mimics other products or suggestive names that hint at drugs. Other colorful bottles of pills contain substances that cannot actually be absorbed by the body orally, such as "DNA" (deoxyribonucleic acid, the building block of human genetic material) occupying the shelves of some stores. One manufacturer of this useless "supplement" claims that "it is a key element in reprogramming and stimulating lazy cells to avoid, improve, or correct problems in the respiratory, digestive, nervous, or glands." This company notes that its "DNA" is extracted from fetal cells; Other brands appear to be nothing more than brewers yeast capsules.

Some other supplements provide end products of internal procedures, such as glutathione, rather than the precursors needed for the body to make sufficient supply on its own, such as Vitamin E. Disclaimer This approach may not work. When in doubt, consult your physician or qualified dietitian.

How can you evaluate supplement claims? Start by relying mostly on respectful reference books for your basic information, rather than advertising or the popular press. Keep an eye out for any product whose sellers claim to cure something. Supplements and vitamins can enhance health and promote health, but they rarely solve cures. Be wary of general utility claims. The worst criminals advertise their products as a cure for a variety of unrelated conditions in addition to advertising.

There are several other sales that should make you cautious. If the product literature refers to the myth of the long-lived Hanzas, someone is trying to pull the wool out of their eyes. This tale of a Hardy Russian Mountain Folk who supposedly lives to be over a hundred years old has been debunked by long-respected researchers. If it's a natural substance, but a particular company claims to be the only one who knows the secret to its usefulness, it doesn't really make much sense. Be especially careful when sales pitches are written in a pseudo-language that doesn't hold up closely with a dictionary. This is a popular ploy. For example, one supplement marketed by MultiLevel Marketers claims to "support cellular communication through dietary supplementation of monosaccharides necessary for glycoconjugate synthesis." Translated into plain English, this product is a sugar pill.

Even when you've seen the science behind vitamin or addition to the treatment, there is still the problem of quality and purity. It is almost impossible for consumers to know that a tablet or powder contains substances advertised for strength and purity. Whenever possible, do business with reputable manufacturers who back their products with warranties or potency standards. In many European countries potency is regulated by state standards; In the US, it's a matter of corporate choice.

Natural does not mean harmless. Whenever a vitamin or supplement is strong enough to heal, it also has the ability to cause damage to harm. Be sure to work with your doctor or dietitian if your child will be taking anything more complex than daily multivitamin Refusal

Herbal remedies for bipolar disorder

Many herbs have been used to treat neurological disorders for ages. Geralists refer to these substances and some may be useful in the treatment of a particular Bipolar symptoms disorders.

Of all herbal medicines, this group of herbal extracts is one of the strongest and most likely to cause serious side effects. Along with the herbal sleep aids mentioned earlier in this chapter, the nerves that have been tried by people with bipolar disorders or related conditions include:

Black Kogosh (Cimicifuga racemosa). Nervous system depressant and sedative , is sometimes used by people with autoimmune conditions for its anti-inflammatory effects. Its active ingredient seems to bind to estrogen receptor Sites so that it can cause hormonal activity.
Damiana (Turnera Aphrodisiaca). Traditional cure for depression. As its Latin name indicates, it is also considered to have aphrodisiac properties. Whatever it is, it seems to work on the hormonal system. Its energy quality can be dangerous for bipolar patients.
Ginko Biloba. Ginko tree extract advertised as an herb that can improve your memory. There is some clinical evidence for this claim. It is an antioxidant and prescribed in Germany for Dementia treatment Failure It is believed to increase blood flow to the brain.
Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolium). It has an energizing effect that may be beneficial for people whose depression is accompanied by extreme fatigue and lethargy.
Grapeseed oil and picogenol. Both are very powerful antioxidants. (Picogenol is derived from marine pine trees.)
Gotu Kola (Cesella Asiatica, Hydrocotyl Asiatica). Ayurvedic herbal stimulant is sometimes recommended for depression and anxiety Refusal
Licorice (glabra glycyrrhization, Livirilia officinalis). Increases hormone production, including hormones active in the digestive tract and brain.
Sassaparilla (HEMIDESM ENDICUS). Like licorice, it seems to affect the production of hormones as well as the settlement of the stomach and calms the nerves.
St. John of the Court (Perypericum Perforatum). Gained popularity as an herbal antidepressant Disclaimer It has the support of a decent amount of research. Those who choose to use this medicine should follow the same precautions as ssris and Maoi, two pharmaceutical families antidepressants Failure It can also cause increased sensitivity to light. It is available by prescription in Germany, where it is the most widely used antidepressant. It is potentially dangerous to use St. John's wort with prescription antidepressants or any other medicines that may affect serotonin Refusal

Treatment for Bipolar Disorder - Bipolar.su

With the right treatment, most people with bipolar disorder, even in its most severe forms, can be stabilized by mood swings and other symptoms of the disease. Since bipolar disorder is relapsing, preventive treatment is not only indicated but strongly recommended. Treatment that combines medication and psychotherapy is optimal to keep the disease under control.

In most cases, bipolar disorder is controlled much more effectively if the patient does not interrupt the course of treatment, but continues to follow it. But even in these cases, episodes of mood swings are quite likely. In such cases, you must definitely notify the attending physician. A timely change in the course of treatment by a doctor can prevent a full-blown episode.
Treatment will be more effective if you openly discuss all doubts and proposed treatment options with your doctor.
In addition, if the patient himself and his relatives fill out a daily schedule of symptoms of mood, medication, sleep patterns, events of the day, then they begin to better understand the disease. Such graphs also help the attending physician to more effectively monitor the progress of the disease and treatment.

Medications

Medications for bipolar disorder are prescribed by registered psychiatrists-Doctors of Medicine (MD), specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Although a therapist can also prescribe medication, it is highly recommended that people with bipolar disorder be seen and treated by a psychiatrist.
So-called "mood stabilizers" are usually prescribed for bipolar disorder. There are several types of them. Usually people with bipolar disorder continue to take mood stabilizers for a long period of time (years). Other drugs are added as needed, usually for a shorter period of time, to relieve episodes of mania or depression that can occur intermittently, even with mood stabilizers.

Lithium is the first mood-stabilizing drug approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of mania. This medicine is effective in controlling mania or preventing recurrence of both manic and depressive episodes.

Anticonvulsants such as valproate (Depakote®) or carbamazepine (Tegretol®) also have a mood-stabilizing effect and can be used in particularly difficult to treat cases of bipolar disorder. The FDA approved the use of valproate for the treatment of mania at 19

New anticonvulsants such as lamotrigine (Lamictal®), gabapentin (Neurontin®), and topiramate (Topamax®) are under study to determine how well they work to stabilize mood cycles
To achieve maximum effect, several anticonvulsants can be prescribed at once or they can be used in combination with lithium.

Children and adolescents with bipolar disorder are usually treated with lithium, but valproate and carbamazepine are also used. Scientists are evaluating the safety and effectiveness of these and other psychotropic drugs in children and adolescents. Studies have shown that valproate can lead to hormonal changes in adolescent girls and to polycystic ovary syndrome in young women who start taking this drug before the age of 20 years. .

Patients with bipolar disorder who want to become pregnant or are already pregnant face a difficult choice because mood stabilizers can have negative effects on the fetus or on the breastfed infant. pros and cons of various treatments. Currently, new drugs are being tested that significantly reduce the risk during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Studies have shown that patients with bipolar disorder treated with antidepressants are at risk of developing mania, hypomania, or a rapidly circulating form of the disease.

Mood stabilizing drugs, either in combination with antidepressants or on their own, are usually required to protect people with bipolar disorder from these effects. Currently, lithium and valproate are the most commonly used mood-stabilizing drugs. However, trials are ongoing to evaluate the effectiveness of new drugs to stabilize mood.
Atypical antipsychotics including clozapine (Clozaril®), olanzapine (Zyprexa®), risperidone (Rispendal®), quetipine (Seroquel®), and ziprasidone (Geodon®) are being studied for use in the treatment of bipolar disorder. There is evidence that clozapine may help patients who do not respond to lithium or anticonvulsant therapy.
Other studies have confirmed that olanzapine is effective in acute mania and has recently been approved for use as such by the FDA.17 Olanzapine is also helpful in the treatment of psychotic depression.18
Aripiprazole (Abilify®) is another atypical antipsychotic used to treat symptoms of schizophrenia and manic or mixed (manic and depressive) episodes of bipolar I disorder. It is available in both tablets and liquid form. The injections are used to treat the symptoms of agitation in schizophrenia and manic or mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder.
If insomnia is a problem, high-potency benzodiazepine drugs such as clonazepam (Klonopin®) or lorazepam (Ativan®) may help. However, because these drugs are addictive, they are only prescribed for a short time. In some cases, sedatives such as zolpidem (Ambien®) are prescribed instead.
During the course of treatment for bipolar disorder, you have to change medications more than once in order to achieve the most effective treatment. All drug changes and dose changes must occur as directed by the treating psychiatrist.
Be sure to tell your psychiatrist about all medications you take, including over-the-counter medicines, homeopathic remedies, vitamins, and other supplements. This is very important as some medications and supplements are incompatible and may cause adverse reactions.
To avoid relapse or a new episode, the treatment plan must be strictly adhered to. Talk to your doctor about any questions you have about medications.

Thyroid function

Thyroid dysfunction is common in patients with bipolar disorder. Elevated or decreased levels of thyroid hormones in themselves can have an impact on changes in mood and energy levels. Therefore, it is very important that the thyroid gland indicators are under the constant supervision of the attending physician.
The rapidly circulating form of bipolar disorder is often accompanied by thyroid disease. In such cases, along with medications for bipolar disorder, it is necessary to take thyroid medications. It should also be borne in mind that in some patients, lithium can cause a decrease in thyroid activity. In this case, it is necessary to introduce medications into the course of treatment to regulate the function of the thyroid gland.

Side effects of drugs

Always talk to your psychiatrist and/or pharmacist about possible side effects before starting new medicines. Depending on the drug, side effects may include weight gain, nausea, tremors, decreased sexual activity or ability, anxiety, hair loss, difficulty moving, and dry mouth. Be sure to tell your doctor about any side effects that occur while taking this or that medication. To remove or reduce side effects, the doctor may change the dosage of the drug or change it to another. Do not change medications or stop taking them without consulting a psychiatrist.

Psychosocial methods

Psychosocial methods, including certain forms of psychotherapy (or "talk" therapy), are recommended along with medication. Such methods help patients with bipolar disorder and their families to understand the specifics of the disease and obtain the necessary information. The results of studies have shown that psychosocial therapy helps to stabilize mood, reduce the number of hospitalizations and improve life in various areas of human activity.

Typically, this therapy is administered by licensed psychologists and social workers who coordinate with the treating psychiatrist and work together to monitor the progress of the patient's health. The number of sessions, their frequency and duration depend on the individual needs of each patient.
Psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder include cognitive behavioral therapy, psychological education, family therapy, and a new approach, interpersonal and sociorhythmic therapy. Researchers at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) are studying and comparing the effectiveness of these methods in combination with various drugs for the treatment of bipolar disorder:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps people with bipolar disorder understand and change negative or distorted thought patterns and behaviors associated with the disorder.
Psychological education provides patients with information about the disease and its treatment methods, as well as helps them learn to recognize the signs of relapse, which allows them to seek help early and prevent the onset of a full-blown episode. Psychic education is also useful for family members of the patient.

Family therapy uses a strategy to reduce the level of tension in the family, which can aggravate the symptoms of the disease or provoked by them.
Interpersonal and socio-rhythmic therapy helps patients with bipolar disorder improve interpersonal relationships and organize their daily routine. A regular schedule and regular sleep patterns help prevent manic episodes.
As with drug treatment, adherence to the prescribed course of treatment is essential to achieve successful results in psychosocial therapy.

Other treatments

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT/ECT) is used when medications, psychosocial therapies, or a combination of the two do not work or are too slow to treat serious symptoms such as psychosis or suicidality. The use of ECT may also help during acute episodes when the patient's physical condition (including pregnancy) does not allow the use of drugs. ECT is highly effective in the treatment of severe depression, manic and/or mixed episodes. The possibility of long-term memory problems as a result of ECT, which until recently was a serious cause for concern, is now significantly reduced thanks to the latest methods of ECT.
However, the pros and cons of using ECT and other alternative therapies should be discussed in advance with the patient and, if necessary, with family members or friends.
Herbal medicines and natural supplements, such as St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum), are not yet well understood and little information is available about their impact on bipolar disorder. Since FDA regulations do not apply to such products, different manufacturers of these supplements use different amounts of active ingredients. Before you start taking herbal medicines or natural supplements, you should consult with your doctor. There is evidence that St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of certain drugs (see: www.nimh.nih.gov/events/stjohnwort.cfm) by leaving the OMH site. 20 In addition, like prescription antidepressants, St. John's wort can induce mania in some patients with bipolar disorder, especially when the patient is not taking mood stabilizers.
Studies are being conducted on the effectiveness of using omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil) in the treatment of bipolar disorder in combination with traditional medicines or separately.

A chronic disease with very effective treatment

Although episodes of mania and depression tend to come and go, it must always be remembered that bipolar disorder is a chronic disease that currently has no cure. The only way to keep this disease under control is to take medicine constantly, even when you feel well. Only in this case it is possible to reduce the chance of relapses and deterioration.

Comorbidities

Alcoholism and drug addiction are very common among patients with bipolar disorder. Studies have shown that there are a number of reasons for this, including self-medication, mood swings from alcohol or drug abuse, and risk factors that affect both the development of bipolar disorder and drug addiction.

Treatment for alcoholism or drug addiction is an important part of the overall course of treatment.
Anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) are also common in bipolar disorder.

Comorbid anxiety disorders can sometimes be controlled with the same tools as bipolar disorder, but in some cases special treatment is required.

Help for people with bipolar disorder and their families

People with bipolar disorder should be managed by an experienced psychiatrist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of the condition. Psychologists, mental health social workers, and psychiatric nurses help provide various aspects of treatment and care for patients and their families.

Help is available at the following locations:

University or medical school treatment programs
Hospital psychiatric departments
Private psychiatric offices and clinics
Community health care organizations (HMO)
Pediatric doctors
Community mental health centers
People with bipolar disorder may need help to get help

People with bipolar disorder often do not realize how sick they are, or they see the cause of their illness not in a mental disorder, but in something else.
People with bipolar disorder may need encouragement and support from family and friends to seek medical help. The therapist can play an important role in insisting on consultation with a psychiatrist.
It is sometimes necessary for a family member or friend to accompany a person with bipolar disorder to medical appointments and treatment.
Sometimes a patient who is in the stage of an acute attack needs to be hospitalized for his/her own safety and to ensure the necessary treatment. In some cases, it is necessary to hospitalize the patient against his/her will and without consent.
It is necessary to constantly support and encourage the patient, after the start of treatment, because in some cases it may take quite a long time to find the right course of treatment.
In some cases, patients with bipolar disorder in remission may agree on a specific plan of action in the event of a future manic or depressive relapse.

Like other serious illnesses, bipolar disorder takes a toll on spouses, family members, friends, and employers.

Learn more