Although there are reports that some supplements and herbs may help, not enough research has been conducted to fully understand how these supplements may affect people with bipolar disorder.

Supplements as Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Managing bipolar affective disorder with conventional medications can be challenging. Interestingly, anecdotal reports indicate that some individuals with bipolar disorder use cannabinoids to alleviate symptoms of both mania and depression.

Cannabinoids in bipolar affective disorder: a review and discussion of their therapeutic potential

Lithium is a medication used to treat bipolar disorder, primarily by preventing or reducing the severity of manic episodes. While its full mechanism is complex, a key action involves blocking the activity of norepinephrine, an excitatory neurotransmitter, at the synapses. This complements its other known effects, such as inhibiting the release of dopamine and glutamate and enhancing the function of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA.

Mechanism of Lithium in Treating Bipolar Disorder

Medications generally used to treat bipolar disorder include mood stabilizers and second-generation (“atypical”) antipsychotics. Treatment plans may also include medications that target sleep or anxiety. Health care providers often prescribe antidepressant medication to treat depressive episodes in bipolar disorder, combining the antidepressant with a mood stabilizer to prevent triggering a manic episode.

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This list includes different categories and types of methods for treating and/or managing different bipolar and related disorders. These can be broken down into categories of methods that include:
- Effective Treatment Plans for Bipolar Disorder
- Medication Treatments
- Psychotherapy Treatments
- Medical Interventions
- Beyond Treatment: Things You Can Do


Treatment and Management Methods for Bipolar and Related Disorders

National Institute of Mental Health . (n.d.). Bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disorder. Retrieved January 27, 2022, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder 

Bipolar Disorder

An effective treatment plan for those with bipolar disorder usually includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy, also called “talk therapy.”

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness. Episodes of mania and depression typically come back over time. Between episodes, many people with bipolar disorder are free of mood changes, but some people may have lingering symptoms. Long-term, continuous treatment can help people manage these symptoms.

Effective Treatment Plans for Bipolar Disorder

Treating Bipolar Disorder: Medication 

Psychotherapy is a term for a variety of treatment techniques that aim to help a person identify and change troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. It can provide support, education, and guidance to people with bipolar disorder and their families.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Psychoeducation 

Treatment may also include newer therapies designed specifically for the treatment of bipolar disorder:
- Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) 
- Family-focused therapy

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