How to Get Help With Bipolar Disorder

Member

By Upon-Request, eHow Member

Article Rating: (14 Ratings)

Facebook
Twitter
StumbleUpon
Email
Print
Share

Getting Back to the Life You Love

Bipolar Disorder causes extreme mood swings from manic episodes of endless energy to extreme depression. Early diagnosis and treatment is critical to managing the disorder and putting your life back in order. Here are a few tips and resources that may be of help to you or someone you know that has been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Internet

Step 1

PREVENTION: Mood swings associated with this disorder can be controlled with medications (mood stabilizers) so be sure to discuss all options with your doctor. Research also shows that eating a healthy diet, exercising daily, maintaining consistent sleep patterns, and staying away from alcohol help to prevent the onset of manic episodes.
Step 2

TESTING/DIAGNOSIS: There are no lab tests for bipolar disorder, but your physician can do a mental health assessment - which tests your ability to think, remember, and reason, as well as your emotional functioning. Early detection can reduce the risk of drug & alcohol abuse or suicide. More importantly, it can give you hope and quality of life.
Step 3

Medications Can Help

TREATMENT: Since Bipolar Disorder may not be diagnosed until the onset of a manic episode, medications such as lithium, Haldol, or Abilify may be prescribed. Ongoing treatment includes counseling and adjusting medications to ultimately prevent future episodes. PsychologyToday.com has a great search engine for finding a mental health professional in your area. You can view each provider's bio and contact information, and find out if they offer additional services like small group counseling.
Step 4

MANAGING THE DISORDER: Small group and peer counseling may be very helpful. Knowing you're not the only one going thru this can be very comforting, as can having an outlet to discuss your frustrations and fears. Family and loved ones should be educated about the disorder so that they can step and help when needed. You may need help controlling manic energy episodes, or help with daily activities if you are experiencing depression. ASK FOR HELP IF YOU NEED IT. Additional resources are listed below.