Bipolar disorder is classified as a mental illness. It is also known as manic depression and can be characterized by severe mood swings, cognitive problems and a general feeling of unease. The keys to successfully managing bipolar disorder are early detection, diagnosis and treatment. Without these, bipolar disorder can make life for the patient and those they care about very difficult.1
There are a few major causes of bipolar disorder. It is not clear how these all play a part in the development of bipolar disorder, yet they do play a part. The main causes are:
Some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder are disguised as normal things that may occur when someone becomes stressed out. They may experience some of these symptoms just like other people. The difference is that these symptoms are usually magnified to the point where the patient with bipolar disorder cannot control their reactions or actions. Some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder are:
A diagnosis of bipolar disorder can only be done by a physician. It usually involves a series of medical tests including blood work, a personal history of the patient and an overall physical exam. There may also be a mental health component to the diagnosis of bipolar if the doctor deems in necessary. The doctor will also consult a book of diagnostic and medical disorders (DSM) to confirm diagnosis.4
Treatment of bipolar disorder is usually done in stages. The first stage is to get the patient on any medications needed to help balance their mood. The next step is to have the patient go to therapy and learn how to cope with their bipolar disorder. If the patient has been abusing drugs or alcohol prior to diagnosis of bipolar disorder, a detox or drug and alcohol rehab may also be suggested. One of the most extreme treatments is commitment to a mental ward or hospitalization. This is usually done in only the most extreme cases of bipolar disorder. It usually depends on how bad the bipolar has become and how long between onset of symptoms as well as severity of those symptoms.
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness but it is manageable. A doctor and patient must be on the same page for treatment to be successful. Following counseling appointments as well as both natural and any prescribed therapies will go a long way to successful treatment. Many people with bipolar disorder lead full lives, especially when they have the support of their friends, family and physician.
St. John's Wort is the most effective natural product for Bipolar Disorder CuresDecoded worldwide community recommends
This can be taken in pill form. It is helpful in managing the depressive symptoms of bi-polar disorder. Always consult a doctor before starting this due to the precautions listed above. It may not be appropriate for all patients.
May interact with some bi-polar medications.
Taking this remedy can be beneficial to bi-polar patients and lower mood swings. This remedy can be taken by pill or by the food we eat. Try to get omega 3 fatty acids in at least two meals a day.
Taken in pill form, magnesium may help lower incidents of manic episodes. The compounds in this remedy may work on the brain in different ways to shorten the cycles of mania as well. Taking this a couple times a day may give the best benefits.
If this is taken when someone is also depressed is not recommended. It is naturally occurring in the body however it may be helpful in a liquid or pill form. Consult a doctor before taking.
May actually provoke mania according to some research.
Fish oil can be beneficial for bi-polar disorder because of its effect on nerve tissue. The fatty acids in fish oil may strengthen the brain connections in someone with bi-polar disorder. Taking fish oil in pill form twice a day can give these benefits.