Bipolar Cure

Bipolar disorder, a mental disease defined by extreme ups and downs in mood, can be controlled but not cured. The ups, referred to as manic episodes, result in reduced inhibitions, agitation and risky behavior such as excessive gambling and risky driving. The downs, or depressive episodes, can be recognized by reduced self-esteem, dramatic changes in sleep and eating patterns and a prolonged period of extreme sadness. A variety of techniques can be used to curb each of these behaviors.

Antidepressants

• Antidepressants can be used to reduce the symptoms of depressive episodes. These medications have a relatively high success rate with only minor side-effects.

Mood Stabilizers

• Mood stabilizers, such as lithium, help prevent the emergence of manic episodes. Lithium and antidepressants are often prescribed together to combat both extremes.

Therapy

• No medication will act as a perfect cure for bipolar disorder. Therapies designed to treat mental disease can help a patient learn to cope with his ailment and reduce symptoms.

Self-help

• Learning to recognize manic and depressive episodes is a vital skill for victims of bipolar disorder. Understanding the mental changes can help to preemptively fight irrational impulses of mania and depression.

Outcomes

• Because bipolar disorder has not been cured an ongoing treatment is required. Despite this, a combination of medicine and therapy goes a long way in reducing symptoms and leading a normal life.