Answer to Request for Bipolar Information

I recently received an email request from an individual outside of the United States, asking for help regarding treatment for bipolar disorder beyond medication. I am publishing my reply and hope that it will be of assistance to others who are similarly interested:

Dear Ruben:

I received your email and am hoping I can be of some assistance to you.

As you may know, the medication taken for bipolar disorder is critical to recovery. While there are co-existing treatments that stabilize biochemistry, I believe medication is essential.

As well, "talk" therapy is helpful in sorting out the issues which arise from having a mood disorder. Breakdown in communication with friends and loved ones can occur in the midst of an episode, and we must learn to confront and take responsibility for the consequences of our behavior at those times.

My not knowing the culture in your country is a drawback because I am not able to assess the amount of stigma there may be in seeking psychological therapy and whether that is an option for you. Regardless, going for counseling is also an important therapy.

Support groups may be helpful in maintaining self-esteem. Being with others who share your diagnosis can be helpful and relaxing to the tension which can surround a diagnosis. Often, the feedback of others can reduce stigma and help you feel connected and less isolated.

One organization you can contact in the U.S. is the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, or Nami as it is called. They may be able to put you in touch with treatment options closer to you. Their website address is: www.nami.org.

Also, the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is a helpful organization for those with bipolar disorder. You can contact them at: DBSAlliance.org. for information about the illness, its treatment, and referral to professionals who can help. They may have more information about treatment.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy has been found to be helpful as a psychotherapy for bipolar disorder. Doing a search of the internet will give you more information on this. It is the type of therapy that stresses our mind's ability to control our behavior.

As well, educating yourself about your illness is the most important thing you can do to help treat it. Learning what you are up against, and dispelling untruths about mental illness can be one of the key things you can do to empower yourself to persist in recovery.

Websites like PsyhcCentral, FinkShrink, and StableMoods are but a few of many sites that can increase and expand your knowledge and sense of well-being.

Lastly, don't be discouraged. With persistence, you can have a life and maybe someday help others to learn more, maybe even start your own support group in your own country.

Good Luck,

Donald Kern, MFT
email: info@kerntherapy.com
Author: Mind Gone Awry
website: kerntherapy.com
blog: bipolarbychance.blogspot.com