Understanding best treatment for Bipolar Disorder- A Study

Bipolar disorders are brain conditions that lead to significant shifts in mood, energy, and daily functioning. Individuals with bipolar disorder experience extreme emotional states known as mood episodes, which are categorized as manic, hypomanic, or depressive. These episodes alternate with periods of normal mood.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition characterized by unpredictable cycles of highs and lows. Without treatment, these fluctuations can severely disrupt one's ability to live a stable and productive life. During manic phases, individuals may exhibit hyperactivity and reckless behavior, while depressive phases can result in severe difficulties in daily functioning. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing these symptoms effectively.

Recent advancements in treatment have shifted the approach for outpatient care. Nowadays, fewer patients are treated solely with mood stabilizers; instead, there is an increased use of second-generation antipsychotic medications. A new study highlights that combining medication with group or family-based therapy offers the best chance for individuals with bipolar disorder to maintain stability. According to study author David Miklowitz, a professor of psychiatry at the University of California, Los Angeles, effective management involves addressing the significant mood swings from depression to mania.

"These episodes can last from a few days to weeks," Miklowitz noted, before patients enter a "recovery period," where they gradually stabilize in mood and resume their daily responsibilities. During this recovery phase, some patients continue to receive psychiatric monitoring and take medications, typically mood stabilizers and antipsychotic drugs.

However, Miklowitz emphasized that recovery is also an ideal time to start therapy in conjunction with medication. The study revealed that patients experienced better control over mania and depression when medication was combined with therapy, especially in group settings or with family involvement.