Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disorder that interferes with the energy levels, mood fluctuations, and behavioral and thinking patterns of a person. The main sign of this health condition is multiple hypomanic and manic episodes along with depressive episodes.
If you or your near ones are experiencing any symptoms of bipolar mood disorder then you must avail of bipolar mood disorder treatment without any hesitation. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, this condition is manageable and the patient can live productively.
There are three types of bipolar disorder such as bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. There can also be some unspecified or specified bipolar disorder sometimes that depends upon the diagnostic criterion. Rapid speech, excessive happiness, psychosis, increased energy, increased impulsivity, restlessness, and mood changes are some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Diagnosis
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) is the main tool that is used by most doctors to evaluate the criteria for bipolar mood disorder. The symptoms that are included in DSM-5 are compared with the ones that you are facing for proper diagnosis.
The doctor may also run a physical exam where you can be recommended with certain lab tests such as hyperthyroidism. After this, a proper medical history check will be done which will contain an evaluation of family history, symptoms, experiences, and lifetime history.
The diagnosis method also includes a proper evaluation of the mental health condition or psychiatric assessment. In this method, the doctor will assess your behavioral patterns, thoughts, and feelings to determine your mental stability. You can be asked to fill out a questionnaire or self-assessment form during this evaluation. You can visit the best hospital for bipolar disorder to get an effective diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment Options
- Therapy- Psychotherapy or talk therapy is one of the most effective treatment methods for people suffering from bipolar disorder. This therapy utilizes various techniques to change troubling behavior, emotions, and thoughts. Some of the other effectual therapies include interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), psychoeducation, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Medications- The doctor may prescribe you certain medications to control the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Some of the medications include antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and antidepressants. Mood stabilizing medications such as Valproic acid and lithium helps in managing maniac episodes whereas, antipsychotics such as Cariprazine and Lurasidone control depressive episodes.
- Lifestyle Changes- Along with medications and therapies, the treatment plan must also include certain lifestyle changes to make a speedy recovery. Some of the lifestyle improvements that one must include are keeping a mood chart or daily diary, quitting alcohol, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy sleeping pattern. One must also indulge in meditation and manage stress effectively to recover from bipolar disorder.
Apart from these treatment options, the doctor may also recommend you other medical options based on your symptoms and mental condition such as thyroid medications, ketamine treatment, and electroconvulsive therapy. You can visit an experienced psychiatrist to get appropriate bipolar mood disorder treatment.
You must also remember the fact that if you’re suffering from bipolar disorder and you’re suddenly getting the thoughts of hurting yourself or experiencing hallucinations then you visit a doctor immediately. In certain cases, hospitalization is also essential to control the symptoms.