Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that affects three percent of the U.S. population. A patient who suffers from bipolar disorder suffers from severe mood swings—at one moment a person can feel great and at a moment’s notice can have a drastic mood change. Someone who suffers from bipolar disorder often also suffers from depression. Between the depression and the extreme mood swings, bipolar disorder can be very frustrating; however, there are many treatment options. When medication and bipolar disorder treatment programs are used together, patients enjoy a 70–85 percent success rate!

Treatment Programs

The most popular method of treatment for bipolar disorder is an intensive outpatient program. Intensive outpatient programs aim to improve functionality and to stabilize the current manic, hypomanic, or mixed episodes with which the patient is struggling. When this is combined with medication, outpatient treatment is very successful. Treatment goals are set after a patient’s diagnosis, and specific treatment strategies are set depending on the patient’s symptoms and the type of bipolar disorder. Intensive outpatient programs also promote awareness of impairments, evaluate personal relationships, monitor the patient’s activity, and track the patient’s success.

Another popular option for treating bipolar disorder is inpatient bipolar disorder treatment, which lasts 30–60 days, depending on the patient’s symptoms. Inpatient treatment allows a focus on the illness without external distractions. This treatment program has the same goals as those of the intensive outpatient program, but it provides more preparation for patients to reenter their lifestyles and communities after completing treatment. Inpatient treatment also uses medication and group therapy in a low-stress environment.

Both treatment programs include medication therapy. Common medications used are lithium carbonate and anticonvulsants, which help patients to stabilize their moods. Lithium is a frequently prescribed medication that helps to balance the highs and lows of bipolar disorder. Anticonvulsants are usually prescribed to patients with rapid cycles of manic episodes and major depression.

Family counseling is often used in combination with other treatment programs. It helps with family concerns and in repairing relationship problems. Family counseling not only helps the patient, but it also helps educate the family about the effects of bipolar disorder. Statistics show that patients with family support have a higher rate of recovery, and Solace Counseling works with the patient and the family to repair the family relationship.

It is important to seek help, because if bipolar disorder is left untreated, conditions may worsen. For more information about bipolar treatment programs, contact Solace Counseling. We can help with the tough symptoms of bipolar disorder, and we offer customized treatment programs to meet each patient’s needs.