Bipolar Treatment

 Bipolar Treatment 

The main focus of the treatment of bipolar disorder comes from the biological evidence that the mood swings of bipolar disorder are the result of disturbances in a number of the brains neurochemical systems.  The use of medication, particularly those called mood stabilizers, are the most important first line approach to bipolar treatment.  These medications not only help prevent episodes of illness, but many have been found to protect the brain from damage that can occur as a result of the chemical disturbance.

In addition to medication, psychological approaches are also showing promise in the treatment of bipolar.  When these interventions are combined with medication they can help people stay well, and enhance quality life. There are a number of different psychological strategies that are showing promise in the adjunctive treatment of bipolar disorder.  A key component of these approached is providing education (sometimes called psycho-education) about bipolar.  This includes information about the nature of bipolar, the rationale for medication, the role of stress and triggers on illness and the identification of early warning signs.  Other psychological perspectives may have an additional focus.  For example Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), also explores identifying and challenging changes in thinking patterns that occur when becoming unwell. 

As everyone is an individual not one medication, or one psychological approach will be right for everyone.  It is certainly a case where one size does NOT fit all.  It can take time to find the right medication and dose, or find a form of psychological assistance that you find helpful.  Finding those that don’t work so well, are frustrating – but part of the journey in finding the right one.