Bipolar Disorder Treatments And Bipolar Natural Cures

Bipolar disorder is a serious mood disorder characterized by mood swings varying from an abnormally elevated mood to an extremely depressed state, thus exhibiting behaviors that are poles apart. Elevated mood is referred to as mania and a milder form is hypomania. These individuals may have manic or depressive mood swings fluctuating over a period of time or in some cases, they may experience mixed episodes that have manic and depressive feelings simultaneously. The mood swings may be punctuated by normal periods or the individual may suffer a rapid change between mania and depression referred to as rapid cycling.

Extreme mania can cause hallucinations and delusions and extreme depression may lead to suicidal behavior. Based on the nature and severity of the mood swings, bipolar disorder has been divided into various types, the three main types being bipolar I, bipolar II and cyclothymia. Insomnia, irritability, anxiety, anger, fatigue and loss of motivation are some of the symptoms that accompany bipolar disorder.

Most individuals suffering with bipolar disorder are diagnosed in the initial stages of adulthood through observed behavior and self-reported experiences. Bipolar disorder could be linked with environmental factors or could also be an inherited disorder. Since bipolar disorder is a mental disorder, visiting a reputed psychiatrist is recommended as only a trained individual will be able to monitor the condition effectively. There are no tests available for the diagnoses of bipolar disorder but medical investigations may be conducted to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms that the individual is experiencing. Diagnosing bipolar disorder is extremely difficult even for an experienced mental health professional as some patients may exhibit lesser occasions of mania than depression and vice versa. Most researchers believe that bipolar disorder is connected with chemical imbalances in the brain.

Doctors usually prescribe medication to control the chemical imbalance in the brain. A sudden discontinuation of the medication can have adverse effects and no medication should be stopped without consulting the psychiatrist. Looking out for causes that trigger the erratic mood swings and trying to avoid them may help in reducing the episodes. Positive surroundings, motivation and a reduction in negativity, stress and high expectations may also help the individual experience more normal phases in life.

Diet For Bipolar Disorder Patients

Deep breathing exercises and meditation help in calming the brain. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is recommended for the better functioning of the body. Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish and flax seeds may prove beneficial is improving brain function. Alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, aerated drinks and chocolate should be avoided as they may have the ability to trigger undesirable episodes.