There is no cure for BD but, with proper therapy, people with this disease can lead stable and productive lives. Bipolar disorder will not get better without medical treatment.
Self-care without medical treatment is not recommended. Self-care measures are not effective in relieving symptoms or preventing harmful behavior.
Treatment of bipolar disorder centers on (1) medications to stabilize mood swings and (2) counseling with a therapist. However, therapy is more successful with strong support from family and loved ones.
Medications don't always work the first time and may need to be changed many times until the right medication or combination of medicines is found.
Those people who are a danger to themselves or others will have their medications started in the hospital and will remain there until they are able to control their emotions enough to function at home.
Not all episodes are serious enough to require hospitalization. Many people can be treated as outpatients.
| Printer-Friendly Format | | | Email to a Friend |
Get tips on therapy and treatment.
Bipolar Nose Test for Better Care
Bipolar disorder produces extreme mood swings that can be debilitating. Researchers think the nose's "smell" cells may lead to better care. See more WebMD Videos »
|