Anxiety and depression are two of the main components of bipolar disorder and can result in episodes of prolonged depression. If left untreated, anxiety and depression can lead to a worsening of the individual's condition and symptoms, often resulting in severe social and interpersonal problems, dangerous or harmful thoughts and even suicide. For these reasons, it is important to treat bipolar anxiety and depression at an early stage, before hospitalization is necessary.
Instructions
Treat Bipolar Anxiety and Depression
1. Keep a journal of moods and feelings. Keeping a journal of mood and feeling variations can help an individual recognize when he is entering a depressive stage or experiencing elevated levels of anxiety. If the individual is able to recognize a change in behavior patterns at the early stages and seek medical treatment immediately, he or she can avoid experiencing a full-blown depressive episode, interpersonal problems, extreme social phobia or other anxiety-induced problems.
2. Talk to psychiatrist or mental health expert and ask about different medications. Because depression and anxiety are two of the most dangerous symptoms of bipolar disorder, it is important to seek help if the individual feels he is entering a depressive phase or is suffering from increased anxiety. Mood stabilizing drugs such as lithium and anticonvulsants, antidepressants and even antipsychotics can help reduce depressive thoughts and anxiety.
Individuals suffering from anxiety often suffer from insomnia, which may further increase anxiety. In extreme cases of anxiety and insomnia, a doctor can prescribe sleeping pills as well.
3. Begin or continue therapy sessions. Talking to a qualified, experienced mental health professional can help the bipolar individual learn to cope with anxiety and depressive episodes.
Perhaps the most important type of therapy for individuals suffering from bipolar disorder is cognitive behavioral therapy, which teaches individuals change negative thoughts, behaviors and patterns. Individuals can learn to recognize and change the factors that are contributing to anxiety and depression.
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy can help individuals improve their social skills and can provide skills for decreasing social phobias and social anxiety.
Psychoeducation therapy allows individuals to recognize the early signs of manic depression, resulting in earlier, more effective intervention.
If an individual is unresponsive to medications and therapy, electroshock therapy can also be employed. Electro-convulsive shock therapy appears to be highly effective, helping up to 75 percent of individuals who are experiencing suicidal thoughts. The patient is put under anesthesia and given 30- to 90-second electrical shocks.
4. Lead a healthy lifestyle. Getting plenty of exercise and sleep, avoiding drugs and alcohol and following a consistent daily schedule can help keep depression and anxiety at bay. Aside from serving as a distraction, exercise releases endorphins into the body, which can help ward off depressive episodes. Getting enough sleep is likely to reduce anxiety levels, decreasing the chances of severe anxiety-related problems. Drugs and alcohol are known to worsen the symptoms of bipolar disorder and can also have dangerous interactions with or decrease the effectiveness of many of the medications individuals take to control their symptoms.
Maintaining a more or less unchanging daily routine can also reduce anxiety levels and allows the individual to feel more in control of his or her life.
5. Seek support from friends and family. Family-focused therapy is a therapy option that includes family members and/or close friends of the individual suffering from bipolar disorder. The more friends and family members know about the early symptoms of increased anxiety and manic depression, the earlier medical intervention can be sought.
Individuals suffering from bipolar disorder should talk to their friends and family about their feelings and thoughts. Having a strong support circle can improve an individual's condition.
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