How is it treated?

The aims of treatment are to reduce the symptoms of depression or mania. Also to prevent or reduce the frequency of future episodes and to help the individual come to terms with having a bipolar disorder.

Most people will require medication at some stage, but supportive counseling and/or specific psychological treatments, such as cognitive behaviour therapy, can play an important role.

If a person experiences an episode of mania or severe depression they may be admitted to hospital to allow more intensive treatment and support to be offered, or to help avoid actions that are dangerous or regrettable. People with less severe depressive or hypomanic episodes can usually be offered additional treatment and support in the community.

Stages of Treatment

• Acute phase: treatment is aimed at ending the current manic, hypomania, depressive, or mixed episode.
• Preventive or maintenance phase: treatment is continued on a long term basis to prevent future episodes.

Components of Treatment

Medication: is necessary for nearly all patients during acute and preventive cases. This page tells you about the different medications, side effects and hospitalization.	Education: is crucial in helping patients and families learn how best to manage bipolar disorder and prevent its complications.	Psychotherapy: helps patients and families affected by bipolar disorder deal with disturbing thoughts, feelings, and behaviours in a constructive manner.