Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a mental health ailment that is becoming more and more common by the day. According to statistics, more than 46 million people from around the world have bipolar disorder. Sadly, the disorder is more common among men than women.
Not to mention, it affects people of every age group, though it’s more common in adults. If you don’t know enough about it, you’re in for a treat today. In this article today, I’m going to cover all the details about bipolar disorder, so stick around to find more about it.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
As you know, bipolar disorder includes unusual shifts in mood and energy, but that’s not all. It has various other symptoms. Although the symptoms of bipolar disorder are different for everyone, some of them remain common in all. The following are a few frequently experienced symptoms of bipolar disorder:
- Abnormally upbeat, jumpy, and wired behavior
- Racing thoughts and unusual talkativeness
- Risk-taking behavior, sometimes suicidal
- An exaggerated sense of self
- Frequent anger outbursts and social withdrawal
- Either insomnia or sleeping too much
- Decreased ability to concentrate or think
Treatment of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder manifests in three episodes, mania, hypomania, and a major depressive episode. The treatment of this disorder depends on the episode one is experiencing. However, the common treatment options include:
Allopathic Medicines
First and foremost, once you’re diagnosed with bipolar disorder, your physician is going to prescribe you some antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. In case you’re going through a major depressive episode, they may prescribe you antidepressants, too. In severe cases, your physician may also recommend an electroconvulsive shock treatment. It is usually recommended in case of visual hallucinations and risk-taking behavior.
Herbal Medicines
Many people don’t believe in allopathic medicines because of the side effects they have. They sometimes make your condition worse instead of making it better. On the other hand, several herbs and plants work well to tame the symptoms of bipolar disorder. They include valerian root, ashwagandha, lemon balm, passionflower, and plus CBD oil. Since they have minimal to no side effects, they’re a lot safer than allopathic medicines and some of them work incredibly well to uplift your mood and eliminate stress.
Psychotherapy
The third and last is psychotherapy. Once you’re done combating the severe symptoms of bipolar disorder, you can move towards psychotherapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is usually recommended for people with bipolar disorder. It’s a talk therapy that helps you release your stress and motivates you to continue with your life.
And that’s about it… I’m sure now you know enough to realize the severity of this disorder and how prompt treatment is essential. I wish you all the best, my friends!
