What Is Used To Treat Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is also referred to as manic depression. Atypical mood swings, depression, shifts in energy levels and an inability for the person to function normally in society or in relationships are signs of this ailment. Approximately one percent of the population is diagnosed with this disorder each year. It can affect academic growth, careers, and personal relationships negatively. This long term disorder requires lifetime maintenance and monitoring to assure proper treatment.

Most treatment methods combine the use of prescription medications with counseling or other forms of mental health assistance. It is recommended that people who experience these symptoms consult a psychiatrist for diagnosis and the complete spectrum of treatment needed to control it. There are two types of medications generally prescribed for this, mood stabilizers and antidepressants. It is very common for both types to be used in order to prevent swinging from one extreme to another.

Lithium is one of the first and most popular medications to be prescribed. It is also the drug most readily prescribed for use with children and teenagers. Some drugs like valproate or carbamazepine are traditionally used as an anticonvulsant but have been found to also act as a stabilizing agent for mood swings. One or a combination of these drugs will help equalize the moods of a patient. Benzodiazepine or lamotrigine are often used as antipsychotic and antidepressant medications to compliment the mood stabilizers.

Omega-3, St. John