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Therapeutic Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disorder in which the affected person experiences episodes of marked depression followed by episodes of mania. In most cases of bipolar disorder, some type of medication is usually required to keep depressive and manic symptoms under control. Psychological therapy, in addition to medication, can also help make bipolar symptoms more manageable for the patient.

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common type of therapy used for treating bipolar disorder. This type of therapy focuses on the patient's appraisal of stressful or difficult life situations and the thought processes used in these appraisals. It is thought that an overly negative appraisal can contribute to the exaggerated moods of bipolar disorder. The goal of treatment is to teach the patient how to test his own sense of reality in order to eliminate distorted thinking and control emotions.

    Psychoeducation

    • Psychoeducation can be very helpful in preventing relapse in bipolar patients. In this type of treatment, patients learn about their illness and about the medication they are on. This can be effective in keeping bipolar people on their medication, which is often difficult because of the unpleasant side effects that some medications cause. Psychoeducation teaches patients how to recognize the signs that a behavioral relapse may occur so that they can seek help. Family members of a bipolar patient may also benefit from psychoeducation as it may lead them to better understand the moods and behaviors of their loved one.

    Family Therapy

    • Bipolar disorder can be devastating for the family members of the bipolar person because of the extreme mood swings and sometimes reckless behavior that occurs in bipolar people. Family therapy can help resolve any underlying familial issues which may be adding to the stress the disorder already causes. This can also be good for other family members as it may help them heal and forgive any wrongs the bipolar person may have committed when manic or not on medication.

    Social Rhythm Therapy

    • Social rhythm therapy is a unique type of psychosocial treatment that focuses on both interpersonal relationships as well as structured daily routines. This type of therapy may teach the bipolar person how to improve or maintain a friendship or support network while also emphasizing regular sleep, work and medication schedules to help prevent and manage manic episodes.

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