Prognosis of Bipolar Affective Disorder
People with bipolar affective disorder have a higher death rate from suicide and heart disease than the general population. However, with the right treatment, the prognosis for bipolar disorder can be greatly improved.
Other People Are Reading
-
Health Risks of Bipolar Affective Disorder
-
Up to one in five people with bipolar disorder commits suicide. Bipolar patients are also more prone to heart disease, cancer and autoimmune and endocrine disorders, resulting in a 9.2-year decrease in life expectancy.
Prognosis Without Treatment
-
The prognosis for someone with untreated bipolar affective disorder includes a higher death rate, the alienation of family and friends and inability to perform job and day-to-day activities.
-
Prognosis With Treatment
-
With proper and consistent treatment, the prognosis for survival and a productive life is greatly increased. Treatment involves medication, psychological care and lifestyle changes.
Treatment With Medications
-
Psychiatrists usually prescribe a mood stabilizer and antidepressant to keep mood swings in check. Anti-psychotic medications may also be prescribed.
Other Methods of Treatment
-
Counseling and psychoanalysis are part of a successful treatment plan for bipolar disorder. Lifestyle changes may involve quitting drugs or alcohol, getting plenty of exercise, mood tracking, stress management and eating a healthier diet.
-
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of kenny
