Nonmedical treatment for bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a relatively common mood disorder that is a universal phenomenon and affects all kinds of people, irrespective of the sex or race. Characteristic features of bipolar disorder include the person experiencing extreme mood changes which swing between mania and depression, polar opposites. These mood shifts are unpredictable and last for abnormally long periods of time and are in fact known to last for up to a month or more.

Due to the extreme variation in moods, a person affected with bipolar disorder will often behave erratically and experience a lot of mood changes. All these affect the person’s relationships and ability to function normally. In severe cases of bipolar disorder, the person is likely to experience psychotic symptoms (hallucinations and delusions) and may also have suicidal ideations, both of which are to be taken seriously.

The best way of managing bipolar disorder is through the use of medication. In fact medication has been proven extremely successful in keeping the symptoms of bipolar disorder under check, and in allowing the person to live a normal life. However along with medication, other forms of non-medical treatments for bipolar disorder are also available which may be used together with medication, or by themselves in case medication is not needed.

The most common non-medical treatment for bipolar disorder includes different types of psychotherapy. These are extremely helpful in educating, supporting and guiding patients and their families about bipolar disorder and effective ways of handling it. Psychotherapy has been proven to reduce instability of mood, hospital visits as well as improve functioning. Psychotherapy is generally offered by a licensed psychologist or counsellor along with a psychiatrist.

The most common non-medical treatments for bipolar disorder amongst psychotherapies include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychoeducation, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, family therapy and behaviour therapy. CBT helps people learn how to recognise and change their thought patterns in order to change their behaviours and control mood changes. Psychoeducation aims at teaching the patients about the disorder and the treatment, along with recognising symptoms so that early interventions can be sought. Psychoeducation is useful for the families too. Another useful non-medical treatment for bipolar disorder for families is Family therapy. Family therapy uses techniques designed to reduce the levels of stress in the family members which is the direct result of the bipolar disorder. The new therapy, interpersonal and social rhythm therapy helps people develop a routine for their daily living which helps in normal functioning as well as improve interpersonal relationships. By following a set routine, the chances of a manic episode are reduced.