Bipolar Anxiety Treatment

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental condition, and people living with this condition often experience periods of extreme happiness and extreme lows. In addition to depression, bipolar patients may deal with periods of anxiety, wherein they experience panic attacks, nervousness, worry or fear. But fortunately, treatments are available, and people living with bipolar anxiety can control their symptoms and balance their moods.

Medications

• A host of medications are available to treat people living with bipolar disorder. Doctors generally prescribe medication based on a patient's symptoms and the severity of their bipolar episodes. In the case of bipolar anxiety, common medications include an antidepressant, mood stabilizer or an anti-anxiety medication. These drugs help regulate brain chemicals related to depression, which results in fewer mood swings. In severe cases of bipolar disorder, doctors may recommend antipsychotic medications. These medications assist patients who experience hallucinations or delusions.

Counseling

• Because bipolar anxiety requires long-term treatment, people living with the condition may attend counseling sessions in conjunction with medication. Therapy or counseling is effective because sufferers can speak with a mental health professional and uncover the root of their bipolar episodes. Different factors contribute to bipolar anxiety such as a family history of mental illness, a traumatic experience, drug abuse and intense stress. Through individual sessions, family sessions and group sessions, patients learn how to identify situations and circumstances that bring on depression and anxiety. And they learn how to cope with disappointments, negative thoughts and other problems in their life. Managing stress, improving problem-solving skills and establishing healthy relationships is key to dealing with bipolar disorder.

Physical Activity

• Engaging in regular exercise can help bipolar anxiety sufferers improve their mental health. For people living with bipolar disorder, exercising a minimum of 30 minutes a day can balance their moods and decrease the frequency and severity of episodes. Physical activity releases brain chemicals such as dopamine and serotonin. These chemicals increase pleasure and stabilize moods. In addition to drug therapy and professional counseling, incorporating physical activity (aerobics, jogging, biking, swimming, sports) may speed the recovery process.