If you’re thinking about entering the world of bipolar manic depression online therapy, you’ll first want to be absolutely certain that you’ve got all your questions answered prior to you to start the course of treatment. Online group counseling offers you the chance to receive much-needed individual support while engaging in the therapy with other individuals who are experiencing the same problems you do. It’s also more convenient than having to join a therapist’s office. However, just because it’s more convenient doesn’t mean you should choose it just because it’s more affordable.
Your therapist won’t be able to help you if you don’t take responsibility for your own treatment. By taking the initiative to enroll in therapy yourself, you can be sure you’ll be receiving individualized treatment and attention that’s specially tailored for you. You’ll also avoid the costly costs of therapist-facilitated treatments which, while more convenient, don’t give you the same effectiveness as individual sessions with trained psychologists and mental health care providers.
If you do decide to pursue bipolar manic depression online, there are several things you need to be aware of. Although online counseling is relatively inexpensive, you should be aware that it’s not necessarily a “do-it-yourself” undertaking. You’ll need to have fairly good reading skills, excellent writing skills (if you’re using this method to write about your disorder), and you’ll probably need a computer with a high-speed Internet connection and a printer. You may want to call the clinic where you’ll be receiving treatment at and ask about office hours of operation.
Online counselors are trained to provide therapy in a supportive environment. That means you’ll be able to reach them anytime, but you’ll also have to be comfortable giving them your name, phone number, and social security number. Remember, counselors are skilled at putting you in vulnerable situations. Therefore, you’ll need to trust them completely before beginning therapy.
Another tip to remember is that many people who suffer from bipolar manic depression may be ashamed or embarrassed by their condition. Keep in mind, however, that you’re not alone. There are thousands, if not millions, of people like you around who suffer from similar problems. Online counselors can help you overcome the shame you feel because you know that you’re not alone, and because you realize that you can find help.
Online counseling for bipolar depression isn’t any different than it would be in person. The first step will always be individual counseling with your therapist. You’ll discuss your symptoms, your thoughts and feelings, and you’ll discuss your goals and any medications you’re currently taking. Counselors are skilled at helping you overcome manic depression by helping you manage your depression.
Once you’ve started individual therapy, keep in mind that it will likely take several weeks or months for you to start seeing the results you’re looking for. It’s not unusual for someone who has suffered from manic depression to go through six months or more without treatment before being able to go on and become stable. Don’t give up! You must stick with the course of treatment, even though you may feel overwhelmed. If you do, you may be leaving yourself open to a relapse into depression and manic activity.
When you first meet with a therapist, explain the symptoms of your bipolar disorder and any medication you’re currently taking. They can then develop an online therapy plan for you that will work best for your situation. Your therapist can also offer you additional support if you feel overwhelmed. Regardless of whether you choose to begin online therapy or talk with your therapist directly, you’ll quickly find that you can make progress toward feeling better about yourself and being bipolar with depression.