Bipolar Disorder

Treatment

With proper bipolar disorder treatment, patients can live full and productive lives. Medications are crucial to successful bipolar disorder treatment. Psychotherapy is often used to help patients cope with the illness and identify personal conflicts that aggravate the disorder. Mayo specialists have expertise in integrating these treatments for newly diagnosed patients, and making modifications to improve treatments for those previously diagnosed.

A Mayo medical team, including a psychiatrist, psychologist and nurse work with patients to set bipolar disorder treatment goals and monitor progress in meeting them.

Mayo Clinic emphasizes communication between patients and physicians, as treatment can vary over the course of the illness. Keeping records of moods, symptoms, treatments, sleep patterns and life events can help patients and their doctors understand the illness. It is important for patients to report mood changes so that treatment plans can be adjusted, often preventing full-blown episodes.

Medications

Medications are crucial to treatment for bipolar disorder. Doctors at Mayo Clinic work with patients to carefully monitor medications, especially antidepressants, which can increase the risk of rapid cycling or manic episodes. See related research findings.

Commonly prescribed medications for bipolar disorder include:

• Lithium
• Anticonvulsants and mood stabilizers, such as divalproex sodium and carbamazepine
• Atypical antipsychotic mood stabilizers
• Antidepressants

Patients with bipolar disorder may continue treatment with mood stabilizers for years. Other medications are sometimes added when necessary, typically for shorter periods, to treat episodes of mania or depression that can break through despite mood stabilizers. Antidepressants also are commonly prescribed.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is often used in conjunction with medications to help patients identify personal conflicts that aggravate the illness. A therapist can help patients deal with personal relationships, maintain a healthy self-image and ensure compliance with treatment recommendations. Psychotherapy also can assist patients in coping with medication side effects.