Bipolar Disorder – Treating This Common Illness

Bipolar therapy is used in a variety of different ways across many different countries. Developed by two psychiatrists, this bipolar therapy treatment incorporating family dynamics actually makes sense, since primary caregivers of people with bipolar disorder are often at a higher risk of developing depression or the other condition than the average population. In some cases, the bipolar disorder can be treated without the use of medications. Some medications are sometimes prescribed to help reduce the bipolar symptoms and lessen the chances of mania or depression occurring as quickly as they do in some patients.

Bipolar disorder can have a profound effect on a person’s quality of life. It can have profound social, economical and emotional effects on people who suffer from it. The illness disrupts daily living as people with bipolar disorder lose interest in work and other activities, become isolated and socially reclusive, and sometimes even become suicidal. Bipolar disorder is actually categorized as a serious mental illness, and people who experience symptoms should seek medical attention to ensure that the symptoms are diagnosed and treated early. Early diagnosis and treatment, therefore, play an important role in ensuring the patient’s overall health and social well being.

In the United States, two main types of treatments exist for bipolar disorder. The first, and more widely used form of treatment involve the use of psychotherapy and medications prescribed by medical doctors and psychologists. Family and group focused therapists, sometimes called support groups, are helpful for bipolar disorder patients who want to learn how to deal with their bipolar symptoms and the issues that arise in families with people with bipolar disorder. They offer information and help to family members to deal with these issues.

In the United Kingdom, researchers are currently examining the role of genetics in determining a person’s susceptibility to bipolar disorder. Researchers are particularly interested in examining the role that genetic factors may play in the disorder’s development in twins. It has long been suspected that genetic differences contribute to the increased rate of bipolar disorder in some families. The study is still in its early stages, and scientists are not certain whether or not it will provide significant new insights into the condition. However, the results of this study could help to increase awareness of the potential environmental and other causes of bipolar illness that have not been previously considered.

Another area of research that is examining the potential environmental factors that may contribute to the development of bipolar disorder is studying the link between obesity and mood disorders. In particular, it is looking at the effect that excess body weight may have on a person’s ability to both express emotion and control attention and activity. Researchers have explored the connection between obesity and bipolar disorder in families where there is an apparent family history of the illness, but have yet to identify specific genetic or environmental factors that contribute to the link. These studies are currently being conducted by different teams within the Mayo Clinic.

In addition to examining the potential environmental factors that may contribute to bipolar disorder, family focused therapy is also proving effective in many cases. Family focused therapy can be used in a number of ways to treat bipolar disorder. It is often offered as an add-on service to standard treatment at the family doctor’s office or at the clinic where one patient is receiving treatment. Family members are often encouraged to attend the sessions with their loved ones, as the shared experiences with other family members can provide much needed support and encouragement to those suffering from the illness.

In terms of medications used to treat bipolar illness, a great variety of options exist. The most common medications prescribed for bipolar-disorder are antidepressants with serotonergic properties and those with neuroleptic properties. Many people suffering from bipolar disorder have had success with low risk antidepressants like Paxil, Prozac, Celexa, and Zoloft. Medications that are used to treat mixed episodes of mania and depression are often used in conjunction with these types of mood stabilizers. However, drug therapy is not the only method of treating bipolar disorder, and many researchers believe that lifestyle changes are just as important as medication.

One of the more common complications associated with bipolar-disorder is suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Research has proven that a significant number of people who suffer from bipolar disorder have attempted suicide at some point. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are usually characterized by feelings of anger and sadness that intensify quickly and repeatedly over time. Because these feelings can lead to actual suicide attempts, treatment for bipolar-disorder must take this into consideration when deciding how best to approach addressing the disease. If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors, it is strongly recommended that they seek professional assistance.