Bipolar disorder is highly treatable, but not curable.
Dealing with it effectively concentrates on managing mood swings and preventing relapses:
- Medications
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- Mood stabilizers
Lithium (the gold standard).
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- Antipsychotics
E.g., quetiapine, olanzapine (helpful in mania or bipolar depression).
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- Antidepressants
Used cautiously, often with mood stabilizers.
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- Anticonvulsants
Like valproate or lamotrigine.
- Psychotherapy
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- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
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- Psychoeducation (learning about your condition).
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- Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT): Stabilizing routines and sleep patterns.
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- Family therapy if support is needed at home.
- Lifestyle management
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- Regular sleep schedule.
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- Tracking moods (apps or journals).
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- Avoiding alcohol/drugs.
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- Stress reduction strategies (like mindfulness or exercise).
Without treatment, bipolar disorder can:
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- Lead to job/relationship problems.
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- Increase risk of suicide (particularly during depressive episodes).
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- Be mistaken for other conditions like ADHD, depression, or BPD.
Roughly 1 in 5 people with bipolar disorder die by suicide, which is why early diagnosis and ongoing care are crucial.
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