Bipolar Disorder

Which Type of Bipolar Disorder Do You Have?

Few people are aware that there are two types of bipolar disorder, which are distinguished by the severity of your behavior.

• Bipolar I Disorder Patients will experience one or more distinct manic episodes that may or may not be followed by a period of significant depression. Episodes of depression are typically one of the disorder's prominent symptoms.

• Bipolar II Disorder Those suffering from bipolar ll will have recurrent episodes of depression and mania.

The Consequences of Untreated Bipolar Disorder

As previously said, bipolar disorder is a lifetime disease with unexpected ups and downs. If left unchecked, this changing pattern might have disastrous consequences for the victim. Those who suffer from the repeated episodes that characterize bipolar disorder will find it extremely difficult to maintain stable and productive lives. They become careless and hyperactive during manic episodes. During serious depressive episodes, individuals will find it difficult to operate and will feel as if they are operating on autopilot. Early identification and treatment are critical because episodes of mania can last anywhere from 3-6 months on average and periods of depression can last anywhere from a year or more.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Those who suffer from the most severe forms of bipolar disorder can find relief with the wide choice of medications that are now available. A combination of medicine and treatment has been found to have the most effect; but, like with many mental health issues, determining the optimum drug for each person can be a matter of trial and error. Antidepressants, anticonvulsant and antipsychotic drugs, and beta blockers are frequently used in combination to help patients get through their darkest times.

Medication alone has been shown to be unsuccessful in the long term treatment of bipolar illness. Therapy should be started right away because it is not only an important part of treatment but also a valuable asset during the phase when you are exploring different medications to discover the one that works best for you.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

This is also known as CBT and is referred to as 'talking therapy.' CBT assists bipolar patients with efficiently managing their difficulties by improving the way they think and conduct. Nothing, including CBT, can cure bipolar disorder; instead, it can help you manage with it in a more constructive way. Its goal is to break you free from the vicious circle created by your own negative sentiments and beliefs. It operates on the concept that actions, sentiments, thoughts, and physical sensations are all linked and contribute to a sense of helplessness.

CBT helps in breaking the circle by breaking down those big difficulties and allows you to tackle them in smaller portions. You will feel better if you change the negative pattern in which your thoughts process. Unlike many other therapies, CBT focuses on current challenges rather than issues from the past. It looks at you as a person and looks for practical and realistic ways for you to enhance your own mental condition not only on a daily basis but also in the long run.

Taking Care of Yourself

By understanding your disease, interacting freely and transparently with both your therapist and doctor, making good lifestyle choices, and following your treatment plan, you are giving yourself the greatest possible opportunity of managing your bipolar disorder. A robust support system is also necessary, and unfortunately, many sufferers believe they do not have one.

You must also be practical, as even the most effective medications and therapies will not cure you immediately. Effective management and your own determination to getting better are crucial, and only by combining the two will you be able to control your symptoms and enjoy your life to the fullest.