Counseling Options for Treating Bipolar Disorder

Most people who have bipolar disorder need medication therapy to treat the disorder. However, other forms of treatment, used along with medications, play an important role in maintaining mood balance and quality of life. Counseling, along with medication and stress reduction has been used effectively to treat bipolar disorder.

Types of counseling used to treat bipolar disorder include the following:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • Interpersonal therapy
  • Problem solving
  • Family therapy

You should establish a long-term relationship with a counselor you like.

The counselor will then be able to help recognize your personality changes, which will indicate when you are moving into a mood episode. Getting early treatment can reduce the length of the mood episode.

Family involvement in the treatment of a person who has bipolar disorder may be very important.

It is helpful if family members have good relationships with those who provide care for their loved one. Family members may be able to identify symptoms of a manic or depressive episode in the early stages of the episode. In addition, family members may benefit from being able to talk about how the illness has affected them.

Bipolar disorder greatly affects family members. Encourage your family to seek support as well. They will need to understand the disorder and what they can do to help you, as well as themselves, in dealing with the disorder.

Taking your medications, getting counseling, and taking care of your body and mind will greatly enhance your quality of life as you live with bipolar disorder.