Receiving a diagnosis of bipolar disorder can feel frightening. However, getting an accurate diagnosis is a good thing because it means you can finally get the bipolar disorder treatment you need. Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition that requires lifelong management.
If you or someone you love has bipolar disorder, comprehensive bipolar disorder treatment can relieve symptoms and help reduce the frequency and intensity of manic and depressive episodes. At Rose Hill Center, we understand the complexities of bipolar disorder. Our experienced multidisciplinary treatment team provides supportive, effective care in a safe and nurturing environment. Learn about treatment options by calling 866.367.0220.
What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Bipolar Disorder?
People with bipolar disorder often go for years being undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. The complexity of bipolar disorder makes proper diagnosis difficult for several reasons, including the following:
- People can go for long periods without experiencing a manic or depressive episode. During these times, they appear and feel as though nothing is wrong.
- People often only reach out for help when experiencing a depressive episode, so they get misdiagnosed with depression.
- Many people cannot recognize a manic episode for what it is and often feel relieved that they are no longer depressed.
A significant number of people never reach out for help.
Following a proper diagnosis, a treatment plan for bipolar disorder needs to be comprehensive and individualized. Treatment is directed at managing symptoms.
Effective treatment for bipolar disorder should draw on multiple treatment modalities and disciplines to address psychological, neurological, physical, and psychosocial needs. Compared to the general population, individuals with bipolar disorder are more likely to have substance use disorders. For these individuals, co-occurring treatment needs to be part of the overall treatment plan for bipolar disorder.
Is Bipolar Treatment Without Medication Effective?
Managing bipolar disorder without medications is challenging. However, medication is not suitable for everyone and often comes with unwanted side effects. Some of the ways you can manage bipolar symptoms without medications include:
- Talk therapy, including interpersonal therapy, family intervention, and behavioral therapies like CBT and DBT
- Keeping a mood diary to help identify patterns in mood swings over time
- Peer support to make connections with others who have similar or shared experiences
- Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet
- Refrain from using alcohol or drugs
It is critical to understand that managing bipolar disorder without medications is impossible for most. Furthermore, it is successful only for individuals with mild symptoms and a solid support system.
What Is Included in a Treatment Plan for Bipolar Disorder?
There is no specific test to diagnose bipolar, but your doctor will take blood work and do other tests to rule out other diagnoses. Bipolar disorder has genetic, biological, and neurological components, requiring comprehensive treatment to address all areas. A residential rehabilitation program is often the best option for bipolar disorder treatment.
Components of a comprehensive treatment plan for bipolar disorder include:
- Education about bipolar disorder and how it affects you and your loved ones
- Medication management
- Lifestyle management training and skills development
- Therapy to address underlying issues and repair damaged relationships
- Group therapy to foster communication skills and build a support network
The first goal of treatment is to stabilize acute symptoms. Many with bipolar disorder have co-occurring substance use disorders because they turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate, so they need dual diagnosis treatment.
Reach Out to Rose Hill Center for Your Treatment Options
Rose Hill Center is one of the nation’s leading long-term residential treatment facilities. Our experienced staff understands the complex nature of bipolar disorder. We can provide the most effective treatment options. If you or your loved one needs bipolar disorder treatment, reach out to Rose Hill Center today to learn about your treatment options. Use our secure online form or call 866.367.0220 to speak with an intake specialist who can answer all of your questions.
