During a manic episode, a person will often feel happy, have lots of energy, and be very sociable. During a depressive episode, they may feel sad, have low energy, and withdraw socially. In this article, we explore whether bipolar disorder is curable. We also discuss how to manage the condition in the long term.
Is bipolar disorder curable? In the UK, lithium is the main medicine used to treat bipolar disorder. Lithium is a long-term treatment for episodes of mania and depression. For best results, experts say you should exercise at least three to four days per week for 30 to 40 minutes at a time. Being alone can increase the symptoms of depression. Get involved in social activities, such as local book clubs or athletic teams. Spend time with friends and family or chat with them regularly on the phone.
Having the support of friends and loved ones can help you feel more comfortable and confident. However, doing so can help alleviate your symptoms. Similarly, yoga or meditation may be new to you, but they can be beneficial during depressive episodes. These activities are known for being relaxing. They can make it easier for you to cope with the stress or irritability you may be experiencing.
It can be helpful to join a support group for people with bipolar disorder. A group gives you the opportunity to meet other people with the same condition and to share your experiences during depressive episodes. Ask your mental healthcare provider about support groups in your area. You can also find different bipolar disorder and depression support groups by searching online. Visit the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance website for a list of online support groups.
People with bipolar I experience at least one manic episode before or after a depressive episode or mild manic episode called hypomania. People with bipolar II have at least one major depressive episode that lasts two weeks or longer.
They also have at least one mild hypomanic episode that lasts more than four days. Referral to a child psychiatrist with experience in bipolar disorder is recommended. Our caring team of Mayo Clinic experts can help you with your bipolar disorder-related health concerns Start Here. Treatment is best guided by a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions psychiatrist who is skilled in treating bipolar and related disorders.
You may have a treatment team that also includes a psychologist, social worker and psychiatric nurse. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition. Treatment is directed at managing symptoms. Depending on your needs, treatment may include:. The primary treatments for bipolar disorder include medications and psychological counseling psychotherapy to control symptoms, and also may include education and support groups. A number of medications are used to treat bipolar disorder.
The types and doses of medications prescribed are based on your particular symptoms. Finding the right medication or medications for you will likely take some trial and error.
If one doesn't work well for you, there are several others to try. This process requires patience, as some medications need weeks to months to take full effect. Generally only one medication is changed at a time so that your doctor can identify which medications work to relieve your symptoms with the least bothersome side effects.
Medications also may need to be adjusted as your symptoms change. Mild side effects often improve as you find the right medications and doses that work for you, and your body adjusts to the medications. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional if you have bothersome side effects.
Don't make changes or stop taking your medications. If you stop your medication, you may experience withdrawal effects or your symptoms may worsen or return. You may become very depressed, feel suicidal, or go into a manic or hypomanic episode. If you think you need to make a change, call your doctor. A number of medications for bipolar disorder can be associated with birth defects and can pass through breast milk to your baby.
Certain medications, such as valproic acid and divalproex sodium, should not be used during pregnancy. Also, birth control medications may lose effectiveness when taken along with certain bipolar disorder medications. Discuss treatment options with your doctor before you become pregnant, if possible.
If you're taking medication to treat your bipolar disorder and think you may be pregnant, talk to your doctor right away. Psychotherapy is a vital part of bipolar disorder treatment and can be provided in individual, family or group settings. Several types of therapy may be helpful. Managing bipolar disorder without medication is possible for a few, but not many. Mood stabilizers are the primary treatment for bipolar disorder but even with them, and certainly without them, bipolar depression can be hard to manage.
However, there are options that act as antidepressants that are not pharmacological in nature. There are few options for the management of bipolar mania without medications.
The following are those with some evidence:. In short, in almost all of the above cases, the evidence is only preliminary and only available for adjunctive to traditional, medication treatment see also Natural Herbs, Supplements for Bipolar Disorder.
Medically reviewed by Harry Croft, MD. All Rights Reserved. Site last updated October 25,
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