Alternative Ways of Treating Bipolar Disorder

The National Institute of Mental Health defines bipolar disorder, or manic depression, as a condition in which sufferers go through severe mood swings. In an instant, a person with bipolar disorder goes from being full of energy, or manic, to being sad and depressed to the point where it interferes with daily activities. Between these periods of ups and downs, the person may have balance in moods. To treat bipolar disorder, many doctors prescribe medication as standard treatment. However, people are looking for alternative ways of treating bipolar disorder. These alternative methods are used by themselves or in conjunctions with prescription medication.

Light and Dark Therapy

• Light and dark therapy is an alternative way to treat bipolar disorder. People suffering from bipolar disorder often have disturbed sleep-wake cycles, which trigger the mood changes experienced by the condition. Light and dark therapy treats bipolar disorder by exposing the sufferer to natural light and reducing the amount of artificial light for at least 10 hours every night. This helps put the body back on its sleep-wake cycle.

Acupuncture

• Helpguide.org states that another alternative way of treating bipolar disorder is acupuncture. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says that acupuncture involves inserting thin, metal needles in the skin. These needles balance the internal systems by working on a person's yin and yang. When acupuncture is used as a complementary treatment, this alternative treatment manipulates stress hormones, reducing symptoms of depression.

Art Therapy

• Art therapy is an alternative way of treating bipolar disorder for many people. Art therapy is the general term used for treatments like drawing, painting, pottery, sculpting, and creative writing. The American Art Therapy Association states that art therapy is used by mental health professionals to improve a person's physical, mental and emotional well-being. This treatment helps people suffering from bipolar by reducing their stress levels, increasing their self-esteem and reducing anxiety by using art as a form of self-expression.

Diet and Nutrition

• Brain Bio Centre Food for Brain states that dietary and nutritional changes treat bipolar disorder when used in conjunction with other treatments. Consuming specific nutrients as an alternative treatment lowers symptoms of bipolar disorder. The American Journal of Psychiatry conducted research that indicated that consuming omega-3 fatty acid improves moods in many bipolar sufferers. In addition, Food for Brain says that mood and blood sugar affect brain functions. The brain depends on carbohydrates to function properly; however, refined carbohydrates decrease brain function and negatively affects mood. Reduced consumption of refined sugars and consuming good carbohydrates like fruits, vegetables and whole grains balance blood sugar levels.

Massage Therapy

• A Guide to Alternative Therapy Practitioners says that massage therapy, including Swedish and Shiatsu, work as alternative ways of treating bipolar disorder by promoting relaxation and creating body awareness. A half-hour massage helps relieve sensory defensiveness associated with bipolar disorder.