How to treat bipolar disorder naturally

Some people with bipolar disorder have reported that using alternative treatments provides relief from symptoms. Scientific evidence supports many of the benefits in treating depression. But the effectiveness in treating bipolar disorder requires more research.

Always check with your doctor before starting any alternative treatments. Supplements and therapies may interact with your medication and cause unintended side effects. Alternative treatments shouldn’t replace traditional treatments or medications. Some people have reported feeling increased benefits when combining the two together.

Fish oil and fish are common sources of two of the three main types of omega-3 fatty acids:

• eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
• docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)

These fatty acids may affect the chemicals in your brain associated with mood disorders.

Bipolar disorder seems to be less common in countries where people consume fish and fish oil. People with depression also tend to have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood. Omega-3 fatty acids may help:

• reduce irritability and aggression
• maintain mood stability
• reduce depression symptoms
• improve brain function

You can take fish oil supplements to help reach this daily amount. However, fish oil supplements may have side effects that include:

• nausea
• heartburn
• stomach pain
• bloating
• belching
• diarrhea

Rhodiola rosea (arctic root or golden root) may help treat mild to moderate depression. R. rosea is a mild stimulant and may cause insomnia. Other side effects include vivid dreaming and nausea.

Ask your doctor before taking R. rosea, especially if you have a history of breast cancer. This herb binds with estrogen receptors and may increase your risk of breast cancer.

Results of a review of studies indicate that the supplement form of a substance that naturally occurs in the body, S-adenosylmethionine, may be beneficial for depression. This amino acid supplement may also be effective for bipolar disorder.

Some dosages of these supplements can cause serious side effects like triggering manic episodes. Talk with your doctor about proper dosages, and ask about how S-adenosylmethionine might interact with other medications you take.

This antioxidant helps reduce oxidative stress. Additionally, a review of the literature reported that in one randomized controlled trial of people with bipolar disorder, adding 2 grams of N-acetylcysteine per day to traditional medication for bipolar disorder led to significant improvement in depression, mania, and quality of life.

Last Updated: June 8, 2020 References

This article was co-authored by Trudi Griffin, LPC, MS. Trudi Griffin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin specializing in Addictions and Mental Health. She provides therapy to people who struggle with addictions, mental health, and trauma in community health settings and private practice. She received her MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marquette University in 2011.

There are 20 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.

This article has been viewed 31,408 times.

Bipolar disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings between depressive low points and manic high points. This can be a very disruptive condition, so you’ll naturally want to treat it any way you can. Therapy and medication are the main treatment options, but medications can have side effects and you might want a more natural treatment regimen. Unfortunately, natural treatments are not very successful in treating BPD on their own, so you should stick with your prescribed medication schedule. However, some lifestyle and dietary changes could definitely complement your regular treatment and help you recover. None of these remedies is a substitute for professional counseling and medication. Rather, these lifestyle routines can work together with treatment from a mental health professional.

A few lifestyle changes can definitely help you feel better, even if they don’t get rid of your BPD. Your therapist will probably recommend a few of these daily changes to complement your treatment. While they won’t cure your bipolar disorder on their own, they can improve your mood and make your mood swings less severe. Paired with therapy and medication, these methods could make a big improvement in your overall mental health.

How to Treat Bipolar Disorder Naturally

Bipolar depression is a mental disorder characterized by manic, almost euphoric highs and depressive lows. It is a life-long condition. It can influence the victim’s energy and activity levels, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. It can even result in suicide.

There are ways to treat bipolar naturally, but before trying any of them, one must check with their physician to make sure there are no drug/herb interactions.

How to Treat Bipolar Disorder Naturally

Exercise Consistently

Exercise has always been associated with releasing the hormones that we call “feel good” hormones called endorphins and they are natural remedies for bipolar depression. Start off slowly with walks around the neighborhood, and gradually build up the time and number of days walking. Gradually add in additional types of exercise like going to a gym.

Keep Healthy Sleeping Habits

Disrupted sleep can really aggravate a mood disorder like bipolar depression. A first step may be figuring out all the factors that may be affecting sleep and discussing them with your doctor. It is important to avoid caffeine and exercise several hours before going to sleep. Making sure the bedroom is cool enough, dark, and without distractions all help to reach a deep restful sleep. The use of fans, blinds, earplugs, or sleep mask, help attain a good night’s sleep.

Avoid Stimulants

Coffee, tea, ice tea, chocolate all contain caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant and can make getting and staying asleep nearly impossible for many people. Abstain from caffeine, or at least no closer than 12 hours before bedtime.

Eat a Healthy Diet

There is no specific bipolar diet, but eating foods that are nutrient rich, low fat, and low in simple carbs will allow the body to be healthy and avoid disease. Treating bipolar naturally can be simply taking better care of the body as well as the mind.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with brain health. Places in the world where the diet is rich in eggs and omega rich fish have a much lower incidence of bipolar disease.

How to Develop Healthy Eating Habits:

Keep Away from Unhealthy Relationships

Get rid of the “black holes” or energy suckers. These are the people who being with makes one feel bad about themselves or just plain bad. It is important to have healthy, stable, well balanced people in one’s life. Volunteer your time to help others. This type of activity encourages one to feel good. Surrounding oneself with positive people, helps to lift spirits.

Practice Yoga

Yoga employs the use of poses and meditation. It also focuses on breathing. These all induce deep relaxation and can also invigorate. Yoga is also a good stretch for body and mind.

Yoga For Deep Relaxation, Sleep, Insomnia, Anxiety & Stress Relief:

Manage Stress

Take breaks, especially if stress levels.

Try deep breathing focusing on the breath.

Listen to relaxing music.

Remember to call a friend to both distract you and to feel good.

Try St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is a remedy for treating bipolar naturally that has been associated with helping depression. However, it can have interactions with certain serotonin update inhibitors so they must not be combined.

Try Meditating

Stress complicates bipolar depression. Meditation calms and relaxes and can really help with stress. Since it helps produce a calm feeling, it should be part of the patient’s bipolar treatment plan.

Easy Meditation for Bipolar Disorder:

Bipolar disorder involves extreme shifts in mood, energy, and levels of activity. Medications can help people manage symptoms, but these can have adverse effects. A number of natural remedies may also help.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) estimate that around 2.6 percent of people in the United States have bipolar disorder, and nearly 83 percent of cases are severe. On average, it starts when a person is 25 years old.

A person with bipolar disorder experiences times of severe depression and times of mania, or “high” mood. The risks during a low mood include an inability to function at work and in other areas of life.

During mania, the person may be at risk of making reckless decisions. If the mood becomes too high or low, psychosis can develop.

There is no cure for bipolar disorder, but treatment enables people to manage it. Some lifestyle adaptations can also help, alongside the medication.

Counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and a range of lifestyle changes can help people with bipolar disorder to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Sleep

Share on Pinterest Regular sleep is important for people with bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder can disrupt a person’s sleep. During a manic phase, an individual may sleep very little, but during a low phase, they may sleep for a long time.

Missing sleep can trigger a mood change, and getting enough sleep is essential to managing mood.

Good sleep hygiene can encourage people with the condition to have regular sleep.

• going to bed and getting up at regular hours
• making sure the room is comfortable
• avoiding screen time and potentially stressful situations before bed
• not eating a large meal too soon to sleeping
• avoiding or limiting alcohol intake

People with bipolar disorder who have difficulty sleeping should speak to their physician.

A healthful diet is an important lifestyle habit for a person with bipolar disorder.

A 2011 study found that up to 68 percent of people seeking treatment for bipolar disorder have excess weight or obesity. People with bipolar disorder also had a higher risk of various other conditions, including diabetes, low bone density, and cardiovascular disease.

A healthful diet can help to reduce the risk of these conditions.

In 2013, another study found that people with bipolar disorder are more likely to engage in binge eating than the general population.

This may be a side effect of medication or due to overeating during episodes of depression.

Being overweight can complicate recovery and increase the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and anxiety.

Share on Pinterest Regular eating habits can help people with bipolar disorder to stay healthy and avoid gaining excess weight.

Doctors do not know what causes bipolar disorder, but it may be due to an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. These chemicals, also called neurotransmitters, are noradrenaline, dopamine, and serotonin.

Serotonin can also affect appetite. It may be that when serotonin levels are low, people experience cravings for carbohydrates and sweet foods.

Tips for maintaining a healthful diet include:

• keeping to regular eating times
• ensuring that the diet is varied, well-balanced, and has plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
• making a meal plan for the week, preparing a list before going to the grocery store, and sticking to it

Learning and practicing new recipes during times of positive mood may help a person to establish these habits.

Exercise

Moderate and regular exercise can help to balance mood and prevent a number of health problems, such as obesity and cardiovascular disease.

There is a lack of evidence to show that physical activity can specifically help people with bipolar disorder, but some research suggests it may help to improve mood during a low phase.

A 2015 review of studies suggested that exercise “may be a viable and effective strategy to deal with the depressive phase of bipolar disorder.”

Another review, published in 2016, concluded that “generally, exercise was associated with improved health measures, including depressive symptoms, functioning, and quality of life.”

More studies are needed to find out how much exercise an individual should have, how often, and how intense the activity should be, especially as bipolar disorder involves a number of physical and psychological factors.

Practicing moderation

People with bipolar disorder have a higher risk of engaging in addictive behaviors.

One study found that 56 percent of people with the condition had at some time experienced addiction involving either alcohol or drugs.

Certain circuits in the brain play a role in pursuing rewarding experiences. One study has suggested that people with bipolar disorder have stronger activation in these circuits.

This may be what drives the person towards risky behavior.

The positive side of this, say the authors of the study, is that it encourages people to work with energy toward their goals and ambitions.

On the other hand, it may mean that an individual focuses fully on the short-term rewards of a decision while disregarding the possible long-term risks.

Tips for avoiding these problems include:

• becoming more aware of any tendency to engage in risky — for example, addictive — behaviors
• seeking help if there is already a problem
• asking friends and loved ones to support any decisions to avoid destructive or addictive behaviors

Friends who are aware of the risks might, for example, suggest going to see a movie instead of a bar on a night out.

Managing a manic episode

It is not always possible to prevent a manic episode, but as the condition progresses, the individual and their friends and family may start to notice the signs of a mood change.

Here are some tips when this happens:

• See a doctor, if it is the first time, if you have discontinued treatment, or if treatment is not working.
• Follow the treatment plan and keep all medical appointments, as medications may need adjusting.
• Try to keep to a regular sleeping pattern and avoid unnecessary stress when possible.
• Eat a healthful diet and get enough exercise.
• Avoid alcohol and other substances.
• Keep track of your moods and feelings.

If you have people around you, try to share with them what is happening so that they can support you.

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness characterized by episodes of extremely elevated and depressed emotion. Bipolar disorder is a brain illness commonly treated with psychotropic medication, like mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications (Can You Manage Bipolar Disorder Without Medication?).

Many people with bipolar disorder will always require medication management of their illness. However, there are natural bipolar treatments that make use of techniques outside of pharmacological drugs. These natural bipolar treatments can be used with or without bipolar medication, but no changes should be made to any treatment plan without first consulting a doctor.

How to Treat Bipolar Without Medication: Therapy

For many, therapy is important in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Bipolar therapy may be short-term or ongoing, but either way it allows for the treatment of bipolar disorder without medication. Key to any therapy is finding a qualified therapist experienced in the desired type of therapy.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular short-term option. CBT teaches skills to deal with and challenge everyday thoughts and assumptions. CBT attempts to change thought patterns as a treatment of bipolar without medication.

Interpersonal psychotherapy is also medication-free. Psychotherapy may be time-consuming but can be very helpful for those with longstanding personal issues that are contributing to unstable mental health. Psychotherapy delves deeply into personal issues and is usually done individually with a qualified psychotherapist.

Light is a Natural Mood Stabilizer / Antidepressant

Many people have heard of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD produces mood swings based on the amount of available sunlight, typically depression in the winter, when light is low. SAD is often treated with artificial sunlight (light therapy).

Research now suggests light therapy is also useful in bipolar disorder depression, even without a seasonal component. This natural bipolar treatment uses a dawn simulator and a light box to manipulate the amount of light received by the patient. Use of a light box requires a strict schedule so light is always administered at the right time and in the right amount.

Light therapy is a low-risk treatment of bipolar disorder without medication, but it is not no-risk. Light therapy can induce mixed or manic episodes. 1 Always consult a doctor before starting light therapy.

Exercise and Daily Routines: Natural Bipolar Treatments That May Act as Natural Mood Stabilizers

Exercise is a natural treatment for depression and in some cases, acts as effectively as an antidepressant. Exercise is also beneficial for sleep, overall health and some researchers believe it acts as a mood stabilizer as well. 2

Daily routine can also be an excellent way to treat bipolar without medication (or alongside existing medication). It has been shown that a strict bipolar routine involving good sleep hygiene, eating, sleeping and socializing times can be a natural mood stabilizer. Social rhythm therapy tries to create these strict routines for people and has been shown to reduce the overall likelihood of relapse. 3

Bipolar disorder was earlier known as manic depression. It is a mental illness linked with intense shifts in energy, mood, and levels of activity. The changes can arise suddenly or over some weeks. Manic depression is controllable. With proper treatment and care, people with this disorder can lead full, successful lives. Keeping bipolar disorder under control requires a combination of psychotherapy and medication. However, there are alternative treatments and lifestyle habits that can help manage it naturally. Let’s see below how you can treat bipolar disorder naturally.

Following a nutrient-rich diet

Healthy eating nourishes your brain and body to help it function appropriately and hence reducing the occurrence of the severity of the mood episodes. Being overweight disrupts the recovery of manic depression process and increases the risk of high blood pressure. Healthy diet aids to reduce or avoid gaining weight. While there is no particular diet for people with this condition, it is necessary to make dietary changes and choose your foods wisely. Here is what you should include in your food to assist calm mood, prevent illness, and avoid weight gain.

• Legumes like lentils, beans, lentils, and peas
• Whole grain bread, pasta, and cereals
• Cold-water fish, such as cod and salmon
• Dark, leafy vegetables, kale, and spinach
• Lean meats, such as turkey, and chicken
• Low-fat cheese and milk
• Eggs
• Fresh fruits, including apples, bananas, and berries
• Green tea

Although eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods is imperative, eating at regular times all through the day is even significant. Maintaining a proper eating plan is a key aspect in improving mood.

Exercise

Exercise might sound like something that you obviously do, but it plays a critical role in regulating mood and dealing with the condition. Handling bipolar disorder requires consistency: the more you remain active the more your attitude will improve. Exercise is considered a powerful natural remedy for manic depression. A workout can help a depressed person to feel better. Physiological changes occur during and instantly following exercise that creates hormones in charge of mood improvement.

If you have bipolar and have not been taking the time to do exercise, consider engaging in simple ones like bike riding, jogging and even swimming.

Have enough sleep

Disturbed sleep is associated with the ups and downs of manic depression. An individual may have a little sleep, depending on the manic phase. People with this condition tend to sleep longer during a low manic phase. A missed sleep can result in the mood swing, and therefore adequate sleep is necessary to controlling mood. Having a steady sleeping schedule and practicing good sleeping habits is beneficial.

Conclusion

Though you cannot completely treat bipolar without medication, these lifestyle factors can significantly help manage the condition. Avoiding some foods and drinks like alcohol can help keep manic depression under control. So can you treat bipolar disorder naturally? Based on our analysis, natural remedy includes healthy lifestyle habits which cannot treat it entirely but can keep the condition under control. They are also an excellent alternative treatment.

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a mental illness that brings severe mood swings and changes your sleep, thinking, energy and behaviour patterns. In this article, we will be writing about the ways to treat bipolar disorder.

People with bipolar disorder are overly energetic or very sad and sluggish.

The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown but, genes, stress and brain changes can play a role. Researchers are studying how these factors might affect the development of bipolar disorder.

People who have bipolar disorder have symptoms like restlessness, rapid speech, poor concentration, less need for sleep, poor judgement, and becoming more impulsive among others. All these can make it challenging for you to get through the day. So, here are some ways to boost your mood up during this period.

1. Staying Active

Researchers believe that certain types of exercises can help reduce the symptoms of this depressive disorder. These include low to moderate intensity exercises like walking, biking, and jogging. The more you exercise, the more your body will release endorphins, the brain’s feel-good chemicals that help in combating stress and depression.

2. Enjoy Your Hobbies

When a person with a bipolar disorder is not in a depressive mood, he or she may find pleasure in certain activities, such as baking, reading or gardening. And when the depressive mood is switched on he or she may not have any motivation to do anything. It’s important and necessary to take part in activities you enjoy, irrespective of your mood swing and lack of energy. Always remember that once you start doing these activities, you are likely to feel much better.

3. Stick To A Healthy Routine

When you are sad or depressed, you may feel like getting into bad habits like not eating your food even when you are hungry or you may snack on unhealthy foods. The same thing applies to sleep – you are more likely to sleep too little or too much. All these can make bipolar disorder symptoms worse.

Consider adopting healthier habits which include eating meals and snack at a correct time during the day, eating more of lean protein, fruits and vegetables, getting seven to eight hours of sleep at night, and so on.

4. Avoid Isolating Yourself

It’s very common to feel alone and avoid yourself from all the social gatherings. But, this eventually will take a toll on your health as isolating yourself can increase the symptoms of bipolar disorder and you may also start getting weird unwanted suicidal thoughts. So, spend time with your close friends and family, or get involved in social activities.

5. Meditation And Yoga

A reduction in depressive symptoms can be noticed once you start meditating using a supervised mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Proper yoga therapy can help people with bipolar disorder gain better control of their mood swings. According to a study, the more you meditate, the fewer symptoms you will have.

One of the most difficult mental illnesses to diagnose is Bipolar disorder because it can be confused with states of mind such as excitement or depression. However, it is important to learn how to detect the disorder to treat it as soon as possible, so that the patient can enjoy a stable life without suffering the symptoms of this condition. In this OneHowTo article you’ll discover how to treat bipolar disorder so you learn about the medical tests that are usually performed to diagnose it, as well as the medication and therapies that are given to help overcome the symptoms of this disorder.

To begin, it is important that you know how to detect the symptoms of bipolar disorder and above all, so you don’t confuse them with emotional disturbances that everyone experiences throughout the course of their lives. A person suffering from this disorder can go from laughter to tears in a moment, and without any apparent cause. It is also possible for them to feel sad for a period of time and then, one day, they feel better and start going through the phase of joy and euphoria.

There are no exact patterns of these mood changes and the causes of the appearance of this disorder are not known for definite as yet. For this reason, the disorder can be easily confused with any mental disorder but the truth is that bipolar patients experience their feelings very deeply and are never stable. In fact, sufferers can even endanger their jobs, their family relationships and even harm themselves when they are experiencing a depressive episode.

If you think you or someone close to you may be suffering from this disorder, it is best to go to a doctor to perform a series of tests and examinations which will determine the diagnosis. Some of the actions usually performed to detect bipolarity include a series of questions to try to assess the patient’s personal circumstances to see if there is any history of illness in the family. Certain studies claim that there may be genetic causes of bipolar disorder.

It is also likely that the specialist will perform a thorough check of the patient’s health to detect if other diseases could be causing some of the symptoms of bipolarity. Consequently, these mental disturbances may merely be the symptoms of a major condition.

The doctor will talk to family and friends to understand any changes in attitude, learn about the patient’s reactions to each situation and evaluate their behavior. Therefore, a specialist in the area will know if the patient is suffering from bipolar disorder.

Before talking about bipolar disorder, it’s important to know that there is no cure to date that can cure this condition. Medications and treatments that continue to treat it are intended to alleviate the symptoms and allow the patient to live a more stable and balanced life but there is no cure for bipolar disorder.

So, with the treatment prescribed by a doctor, a patient can experience less frequent and less intense mood swings. They also allow the patient to lead a normal life, have a job and a family. Additionally, the prescription of medication also prevents the patient from experiencing such intense episodes that lead them to becoming aggressive or wanting to self-harm.

Therefore, medication is one of the most important parts of treatment for bipolarity as it helps to stabilize the patient’s mood. Usually, the medications prescribed are:

• Antipsychotics: Help reduce psychosis or hallucinations in patients.

• Lithium: To stabilize mood and control episodes associated with the disorder.

• Anticonvulsants: Also indicated to stabilize mood.

In any event, a bipolar patient will frequently visit a psychiatrist so that they are monitored at all times and, if necessary, to change their medication.

In addition to pharmacological treatment, there are alternative treatments for bipolar such as, for example, ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) which is indicated to stabilize a patient’s mood if medication doesn’t work. In fact, when a patient is in the midst of both manic and depressive episodes, it is common for them to require hospital admission to prevent aggression or self-harm.

However, when treating a mental health illness, it is also imperative that the patient accesses supportive therapy so they can turn to it both individually and with the family. Engaging in this type of therapy can help the patient become aware of their condition and start taking action on the matter (taking medication, empathizing with the family, etc.). They will also learn to recognize the symptoms and so they’ll know how to act when they feel that way. Self-awareness is vital to lead a stable life.

If you believe that you live with a bipolar person, you must pay special attention to their symptoms and know when contact a professional. Many people take this disorder lightly because they don’t know for sure if this is something serious or is simply a person’s normal behavior. You will have to contact a doctor in the following cases:

• If you see that they are very aggressive and that they may harm themselves or assault others.

• If they are experiencing deep depression where they are isolating themselves and cannot lift themselves out of it.

• If they admit that they are having hallucinations or that their understanding of reality doesn’t stop them from feeling paranoid.

• If they have not left the house for a long period of time and, in fact, have no intention of going out.

• If you don’t think they will be able to do daily tasks such as eating, washing themselves, cleaning the house, etc.)

It is also advisable to call the doctor if their medication is causing highly visible side effects, as well as realizing that they are not taking it.

This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to How to Treat Bipolar Disorder, we recommend you visit our Mental health category.

Natural Supplements for BPD

SAM-e is an amino acid your body naturally produces. It’s too difficult to explain the SAM-e cycle in detail, so I’ll just sum it up. SAM-e plays an important role in the production of mood enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. So if your body doesn’t produce enough SAM-e, the result is a lower production of natural mood enhancers.

There’s been 28 studies and clinical trials performed on SAM-e and they all had the same result: SAM-e is effective in relieving the symptoms of depression.

Although most of the clinical trials were based on using 800-1600mg a day, many doctors only recommend 400-800mg a day. If you have Borderline Personality Disorder or Bipolar Disorder, start with a low dose because high doses carry a small risk of causing a manic episode. Because it sometimes causes insomnia, you should take SAM-e in the morning on an empty stomach. And to help break it down properly, taking a Vitamin B supplement will provide you with the best results.

5-HTP is another compound your body naturally produces. It’s job is to regulate and increase the production of serotonin. Since serotonin is a natural mood enhancer, higher levels of it can help alleviate the symptoms of depression, anxiety and insomnia.

In the back of my mind, I think of 5-HTP as an herbal supplement because it’s made from the seeds of a Griffonia bush.

As with any “medication”, it’s best to start at a lower dose of 50mg. If you find it’s not working, try increasing it to 100mg. It usually takes several weeks to feel the full effects of HTP-5.

Bipolar disorders and anxiety are frequent bedfellows. In fact, anxiety and anxiety disorders occur in more than half of those with bipolar type I, according to the paper, “The Importance of Anxiety States in Bipolar Disorder.” 1 And I am one of those who experience anxiety in bipolar disorder. Whether your anxiety comes in the form of a specific disorder, or it’s just symptoms of anxiety, I can attest to the fact that anxiety affects bipolar disorder, and it’s not in good ways.

How Anxiety Affects My Bipolar Disorder

I suppose I should say that anxiety affects bipolar disorder, and bipolar disorder affects anxiety. Both sides of that relationship are difficult to live with. I find that anxiety tends to be the worst during bipolar mixed moods, and it makes those mixed moods worse. A mixed mood is when you have symptoms of mania or hypomania at the same time as symptoms of depression. And when you have anxiety with a mixed mood, it seems to turn up the symptoms of that mixed mood. Anxiety seems to increase my physical and cognitive agitation (known as psychomotor agitation, a depression symptom) a lot and, well, makes me want to rip strips of my skin off using my fingernails — while pacing rapidly, back and forth,

The anxiety in bipolar also seems to interact with racing thoughts (a symptom of hypomania or mania) such that my racing thoughts become almost exclusively anxious ones.

All in all, anxiety does not have a positive effect on bipolar and bipolar disorder doesn’t have anxiety either. I find the combination very difficult to live with.

How Rest Affects my Bipolar and Anxiety

Rest, sleep, is universally helpful in whatever ails you, in my opinion. And I know that for me, sleep is critical to bipolar disorder wellness. I have to prioritize over almost everything.

That said, my experiences with sleep and anxiety are different. Watch this video for information on how rest affects my anxiety:

How Anxiety Affects Bipolar Disorder and Suicidality

And while we’re talking about anxiety and bipolar disorder, I think it’s important to point out that anxiety in bipolar disorder can actually increase suicidality and risk of suicide, although the specific relationship is unclear. One paper states: 2

Lifetime anxiety disorders were associated with a more than doubling of the odds of a past suicide attempt, and current anxiety comorbidity was associated with a more than doubling of the odds of current suicidal ideation. Individuals with current anxiety disorders had more severe suicidal ideation, a greater belief suicide would provide relief, and a higher expectancy of future suicidal behaviors. However, some of these associations appeared to be better accounted for by measures of bipolar severity including an earlier age at bipolar onset and a lack of current bipolar recovery. Comorbid anxiety disorders may play a role in characteristics of bipolar disorder that then elevate risk for suicidal ideation and attempts [bold mine].

Of course, I don’t care if anxiety makes bipolar worse and the worsened bipolar then increases suicidality, or the anxiety increases suicidality directly. The point is, if you have anxiety with your bipolar disorder, you may be at a higher risk of suicide.

How to Treat Anxiety in Bipolar Disorder

Naturally, if you suffer from anxiety and bipolar disorder, your treatment considerations become more complex. And it’s important to know that anxiety actually worsens treatment outcomes in bipolar disorder, so ignoring it just isn’t an option.

The typical treatment for anxiety is certain antidepressants. However, those may not be an option in bipolar disorder as antidepressants can induce mood-switching, and, of course, this is always to be avoided. Additionally, doctors generally want to avoid dependence on benzodiazepines as they are considered addictive. 3

That leaves us with, yup, atypical antipsychotics and anticonvulsants. One 2013 paper notes that there is emerging evidence for olanzapine (Zyprexa) and lamotrigine (Lamictal) in the treatment of anxiety in bipolar disorder. 3

Additionally, therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychoeducation also appear to help.

No matter what, though, if you’re experiencing anxiety with bipolar disorder, make sure to discuss it with your doctor. It is a big deal, can hugely affect you, and absolutely needs treatment.

Sources

APA Reference
Tracy, N. (2020, September 27). How Anxiety Affects Bipolar Disorder, HealthyPlace. Retrieved on 2020, September 28 from

Author: Natasha Tracy

Natasha Tracy is a renowned speaker, award-winning advocate and author of Lost Marbles: Insights into My Life with Depression & Bipolar.

Bipolar Disorder affects 2.6 percent of the U.S. adult population. Treatment for Bipolar Disorder often involves lithium, a mood-stabilizing drug that has been found to be effective in managing the disorder.

However, people suffering from Bipolar Disorder are increasingly looking at more natural methods of treatment. Here are five natural remedies that can help you to manage the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:

1. Omega-3 fatty acids. A 1999 study found that Omega-3 fatty acids — EPA (eicosapentaenoic) and DHA (docusahexaenoic) — have a stabilizing effect comparable to lithium for people suffering from Bipolar Disorder. Omega-3s are usually taken in the form of fish oil supplements, but can be found in such foods as salmon, walnuts, and soybeans. Some people use them as add-ons with their regular Bipolar Disorder medication.

Known risks are relatively few, but you should be aware of them. Fish oil supplements can contain mercury. The levels are negligible, but such supplements should be completely avoided by pregnant women.

2. Light therapy. Light therapy, which is often used for treating skin conditions, has been shown to be effective for some people with Bipolar Disorder. Light therapy involves exposing an individual’s eyes to bright light, usually emanating from a light box.

In a 2008 study that evaluated the impact of light therapy on people with Bipolar Disorder, some people recovered fully from depression. While mid-day exposure worked for some, others responded more positively to light therapy in the morning.

Though use of light boxes is basically a medical treatment, it is non-invasive. The known side effects of this therapy include eye-strain, headaches, and insomnia.

3. Regular sleep. The benefits of regular sleeping patterns can’t be exaggerated. Research has shown that maintaining a regular sleeping pattern can help bring your circadian rhythm – the body’s biological clock – back into control, helping ease the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder.

When researchers used a psychotherapy technique that combined lifestyle changes primarily related to sleeping on people with Bipolar Disorder, they found that regular sleep considerably reduced their symptoms when used in addition to lithium.

4. Ketogenic diet. Researchers believe that the ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and protein but low on carbs, could help with Bipolar Disorder. The diet is mainly used to treat epilepsy in children, but researchers believe its anticonvulsant properties may be helpful in mood disorders as well. However, there haven’t been any studies as yet to show this, so consult your physician before incorporating it into your Bipolar Disorder treatment plan.

5. Exercise. Exercise’s mood-enhancing effects are well known, and it is for this reason that it’s considered an important component of Bipolar Disorder treatment. People with severe psychiatric disorders usually demonstrate low levels of physical activity, but even short periods of exercise show a quick improvement in mood. Exercise also boosts your self-image and helps you feel better about yourself, and is good for your immune system and heart.

Though some of the natural methods of treating Bipolar Disorder have no side effects, it’s a good idea to consult your physician or therapist before trying any of them. For example, some supplements could interfere with your regular medication. You should also bear in mind that most of the natural remedies are used in addition to regular medication prescribed for Bipolar Disorder – they’re not a substitute for it.

Published on: 15 February 2020

Last updated on: 15 February 2020

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While the term ‘manic depression‘ is still widely used in everyday language, in 1980 it was replaced by a bipolar disorder in the formal psychiatric classification. Bipolar disorder is severe and is not always experienced in the same way by those affected.

This is recognised by the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, which mainly, but not exclusively, divides bipolar disorder into bipolar disorder I, bipolar disorder II, cyclothymic disorder (often referred to as bipolar III) and bipolar disorder, which is not otherwise specified.

Mania is a defining phase in bipolar disorder, in which the person experiences periods with an intensely elevated mood. Bipolar mania can last for several months or just a few days. This may include irritability, raging thoughts, unusually intense energy, or extreme manifestations of various behaviours.

This can be interspersed with periods of depression that show symptoms such as bad mood, greatly reduced morale and motivation, feelings of hopelessness and physical sluggishness.

Hypomania is a slightly less intense version of mania. Hypomanic episodes occur with a diagnosis of bipolar II disorder along with alternating episodes of depression. Hypomania can sometimes turn into mania. Cyclothymic disorder is the least severe bipolar disorder, and diagnosis requires that the person has had frequent symptoms of hypomania and depression for at least two years.

These do not have to be serious enough to be classified as either a hypomanic episode or a depressive episode. Cyclothymic Disorder tends not to be unable to act or to be particularly debilitating. However, it can become more serious if it is not recognised and answered. From understanding how the fault works to practical steps to restore stability, understanding the condition you are suffering from helps reduce anxiety and provides a foundation on which to take measures to restore well-being.

Examining the way the person lives their life can reveal things that are jeopardising mood stability. Psychotherapy or counseling can help them identify patterns, particularly warning signs that mood is going in one direction or another, and develop prevention or coping strategies.

Medications are often an integral part of any treatment plan to avoid disruptions caused by dramatic and intense fluctuations from one extreme to the other. Ines Santiago of leading Swiss Health & Wellness facility Clinic Les Alpes explains that, ‘typically, treatment entails a combination of at least one mood-stabilising drug and/or atypical antipsychotic, plus psychotherapy’. The most widely used drugs for the treatment of bipolar disorder include lithium carbonate and valproic acid (also known as Depakote or generically as divalproex).

Practical steps to ensure that medications are taken consistently as prescribed are advisable such as storing a reminder in a mobile phone.

The aim of the therapy is to achieve as much stability as possible in the mood as well as in related thoughts, behaviors and sensory sensitivity. This can be achieved through a combination of health education, lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and prescribed medication.

As with many health problems, isolation and social separation should be avoided. A good support system is crucial. Other people sometimes see signs of an upcoming episode of hypomania, mania, or depression in front of the person himself. Well-informed family and friends can help provide a safety net and recovery resources if this should occur.

Dennis Relojo-Howell is the founder of Psychreg. He is also the editor-in-chief of Psychreg Journal Psychology, and writes a weekly column for Free Malaysia Today.

Disclaimer: Psychreg is mainly for information purposes only. Materials on this website are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, medical treatment, or therapy. Never disregard professional psychological or medical advice nor delay in seeking professional advice or treatment because of something you have read on this website. Read our full disclaimer here.

For most people, some combination of lifestyle changes, therapy, medication, and support are helpful for treating bipolar disorder. Some of these are more effective than others for certain people. It may take some time to discover what works for you, but it is worth it.

Lifestyle changes

Many habits can impact your mental health. Making sure you get regular sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly can help a lot. Some people benefit from reducing or eliminating the use of caffeine, alcohol, or drugs. Meditation, yoga, and spiritual practices can be helpful as well. Pay attention to simple things, like taking time to take care of yourself, trying activities you enjoy, and spending time with people or environments where you feel supported.

It’s also important to understand what your own manic and depressive episodes look like. That way you can catch yourself and intervene before things spiral out of control.

Therapy

Therapy can be a great way to learn how to manage bipolar disorder, and to talk with someone openly and honestly. Find a therapist who has experience with and knowledge about bipolar disorder, and anything else you might need help with. This could include trauma, addiction, or family issues. Specific types of therapy that can help are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and family-focused therapies. Group therapy is also an option.

Medication

Another option is to take medications. Medications designed to treat bipolar disorder are called mood stabilizers, and they do exactly that—stabilize your moods, so that your manic and depressive episodes are reduced or eliminated. Some people with bipolar disorder also take antidepressants or anxiety medications.

Medications affect everyone differently, so not every medication will work well for you, and many of them will have side-effects. You’ll need to work with your doctor to find a medication that works for you. It’s also common to take multiple medications, to target different symptoms or to counteract side-effects.

Support

It’s important to find support from others. This can come through family, friends, professionals, or support groups. Support groups are made up of individuals with similar experiences, who meet regularly to discuss their experiences. Talking to people who are going through the same things can make you feel less alone and more connected. It also creates a space where people can share what has worked for them and talk through their struggles with people who understand.

How To Naturally Fight Bipolar Disorder

Diet quality can affect many aspects of one’s physical health and psychological well-being. New research investigates whether or not these factors can also affect the effectiveness of treatments for mood disorders — particularly bipolar.

The moods of people who have bipolar disorderfluctuate between two extremes.

These are the “highs,” during which the person feels euphoric and may engage in dangerous behaviors, and the “lows,” characterized by depression and lethargy.

Since two opposite mood extremes characterize this disorder, it is often difficult to treat both the “highs” (or “manic episodes”) and the “lows” (or “depressive episodes”) with the same efficacy.

New research presented at the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology congress, held in Barcelona, Spain, now suggests that weight and dietary habits may influence how effective treatments for bipolar disorder actually are.

In particular, a healthful diet may aid therapy for depressive episodes, note the study authors. They also explain that, conversely, a poor diet could contribute to heightened inflammation, which may have a negative impact on a person’s symptoms.

“If we can confirm these results, then it’s good news for people with bipolar disorder, as there is a great need for better treatments for the depressive phase of bipolar disorder,” states lead researcher Melanie Ashton, from Deakin University in Geelong, Australia.

The team comprised scientists from numerous academic and research institutions across Australia, Germany, and the United States.

How diet may impact therapy results

Ashton and colleagues conducted a clinical trial for which they recruited 181 participants, of whom 133 provided all the data necessary for the final analysis. All the participants experienced bipolar depression, which is the depressive phase of bipolar disorder.

For a period of 16 weeks, the team randomly allocated all the participants to receive one of three types of treatment:

• a mix of nutraceuticals (or natural nutrients sometimes used as alternatives to drugs and that may help treat or prevent chronic diseases), including the anti-inflammatory substance n-acetylcysteine (NAC)
• only NAC
• a placebo

The investigators administered these treatments alongside the participants’ normal medication for bipolar disorder.

At the start of the trial, the team also collected relevant information from the volunteers, including: their body mass indexes (BMIs), measures of depression, and to what extent they were able to function normally on a day-to-day basis.

The researchers assessed the volunteers’ progress every 4 weeks — including 4 weeks after the cessation of the experimental treatment. They also asked them to answer questionnaires that evaluated dietary habits.

This allowed them to give scores to each participant depending on how healthful their regular diets were.

Good-quality diets included high consumption of fruit and vegetables, whereas poor diets relied on food high in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates, as well as excess alcohol consumption.

Ashton and her team categorized healthful diets as anti-inflammatory and poor-quality diets as pro-inflammatory, based on their contents.

“ We found that people who had a better-quality diet, a diet with anti-inflammatory properties, or a lower BMI, showed better response to add-on nutraceutical treatment than did those who reported a low-quality diet, or a diet including foods that promote inflammation, or who were overweight.”

The investigators believe that, if these results could be replicated in larger clinical trials, specialists may want to start handing out dietary advice to people diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Ashton emphasizes the necessity of repeating this study, saying, “This is a randomized, controlled trial, but what we found were exploratory outcomes; in other words, it wasn’t the main result that we were testing.”

“Our result is statistically significant, but because the study wasn’t specifically designed to test the effect of diet quality, inflammatory diets, and BMI on drug response in general,” she explains, “it is necessary to see the work replicated in a larger study before any firm conclusions can be formed.”

Bipolar Disorder is a brain malfunction that causes symptoms ranging from unusual mood shifts to debilitating depression. A person who suffers from bipolar disorder experiences feelings of extreme euphoria, excessive energy, recklessness, and impulsivity in the manic phase of the disorder. The depressive phase produces feelings of extreme despair, hopelessness, and can even provoke thoughts of suicide.

Receiving a proper diagnosis is essential for successful treatment for the disorder.

Bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms can vary from person to person. Many people who have the condition are often reluctant to admit they are struggling with bipolar warning signs. They usually do not seek help until everyday life becomes too hard to manage. Mental stability is the goal for people who struggle with the condition. It is important to maintain a good rapport with your doctor and to follow his expert advice as you navigate your way through the treatment that will work best for you.

Some people choose to treat bipolar disorder without medication. There are things you can do to help maintain stability and remain healthy in your search for the optimum treatment plan.

Psychotherapy is Necessary to Maintain Stability

Find a good therapist, and set up a consistent therapy schedule. Therapy will help you recognize signs of relapse and potential triggers to impulsive behavior. Your therapist will educate you about all aspects of your disease. A good therapist can also help you build healthy relationships with your family and friends. You need relationships with people you can trust to give you feedback and support.

Get Plenty of Rest

People with bipolar disorder have irregular sleep patterns. They sleep too much when depressed, and not enough when they are experiencing a manic episode. Try to develop a routine or schedule that includes going to bed and getting up at the same time every day. Set your room up for sleep. A comfortable, cool bedroom, free from electronic distraction is ideal.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Avoid caffeine and other stimulants. Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Drink plenty of water and try to avoid sugary soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.

Establish a Daily Routine that Includes Plenty of Exercise

Try to stay on a schedule. A haphazard lifestyle will trigger impulsivity. Make exercise a part of your daily routine. You’ll feel better and burn off excessive energy, which will lead to better sleep habits.

Have a Crisis Plan

Above all, keep in contact with your physician and a close friend or family member. The best treatment plan can fall short when you have bipolar disorder. Be prepared to seek help when you need it.

How to Treat Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental problem that affects one’s behavior and moods. Manic depression is another term for this disorder. It is extremely vital to sought for cure and medication to manage symptoms and have a controllable life. The usual methods of treatment include psychotherapy, drugs and electroconvulsive cure.

These are some steps on how to manage the symptoms and treat the effects of bipolar disorder:

• To stabilize one’s moods, prescribed medications have to be taken as instructed. Anti-depressants, antipsychotic and anti-seizure drugs are given depending on the person’s signs and symptoms.
• A patient can talk about the medications he takes with his doctor. Since there can be various drugs to be taken, a patient must know what type of medications does he take, and their benefits to the body as well as their side effects.
• One must understand that positive effects may not be felt in just a few days. Thus, patients have to adhere to the treatment plan and be patient to wait for a couple of weeks for the drug to work.

What Causes Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a condition that is not directly inherited, just like most mental ailments. This is actually the result of several factors including environmental influence, psychological aspects and genetic conditions. In terms of genes, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder share several risk genes.

Moreover, stress is known to have a huge effect on the occurrence and development of any mental problem, like bipolar disorder. For instance, those who have difficulties coping with the stressors and struggles associated to their involvement with their surroundings and the society, can have heightened emotional stress. And this is an aggravating factor to bipolar disorder.

Home Remedies for Bipolar Disorder

Alternative medicines and home remedies are also effective in dealing with bipolar disorder. These are simple home remedies one can easily do:

• Diet. Though there is no particular diet option for bipolar disorder, it is important to be fully nourished and maintain a balanced and healthy diet. To avoid mood swings, one must keep away from caffeine, fats, too much salt, as well as foods high in tyramine such as liver, fermented cheese, and bananas.
• Exercise. To improve one’s moods, regular exercise is a big help. This can also make a person sleep better.
• In order to enhance the overall wellbeing, it helps to talk to family and friends often.

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Bipolar disorder is a condition that was formerly known as manic depression, and this is because the condition affects your moods, causing them to swing from one extreme to another. This can cause people who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder to have periods of depression, where they can feel incredibly low, to periods of mania, where they might feel very high and overactive.

Symptoms of bipolar can differ from person to person, and each episode can last for a number of weeks, seeming that they do not experience what could be referred to as a ‘normal’ mood very often. It is not unusual for people with bipolar disorder to initially diagnosed with clinical depression, before you are actually diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Symptoms of depression can include overwhelming feelings of worthlessness, which can then lead to suicidal thoughts, so it is so important that you seek medical advice as soon as possible if you are experiencing feelings like this. During a manic phase, people can feel incredibly happy with lots of energy, ambitions, and ideas. This can lead to spending large amounts of money o n items that you cannot afford. Many people actually feel that this is a positive experience; however, you might also experience psychosis, which can include hearing and seeing things that are not there, or becoming convinced about things that are not true.

Although the most comm on form of treatment is prescribed medication from a doctor; there are also a number of alternative therapies that can be used to treat the condition ; however, it should be noted that if you do choose to use an alternative therapy that you speak to your doctor prior to trying anything to ensure that it is an appropriate treatment.

Fish Oils:

Fish oils are great sources of two main types of omega-3 fatty acids known as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which could affect the chemicals in your brain that are associated with mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder.

Research has suggested that fish oils could help to; reduce irritability and aggression, maintain mood stability, reduce depression symptoms, and improve brain function. It should be noted that there could also be some side effects that are associated with taking fish oils in larger amounts. These can include; nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, bloating, belching and diarrhea.

Rhodiola Rosea :

It is believed that rhodiola rosea can be an effective treatment of mild to moderate depression. It should be noted though that it is a mild stimulant, which can cause insomnia, so care should be taken when using.

Other side effects can include vivid dreams and nausea, so it is important to speak to your doctor before taking this herb. Especially if you have a history of breast cancer, as it can bind with oestrogen receptors which can increase your risk of breast cancer.

S-adenosylmethionine:

S-adenosylmethionine occurs naturally in the body, but studies have suggested that when used in supplement form, it could actually be beneficial for depression, leading to other medical experts to suggest that the amino acid supplement could actually be effective for treating bipolar disorder in a more natural way.

Again though, like all alternative treatments, some dosages can cause some serious and unpleasant side effects, which can actually make your symptoms worse, so it is important to talk to your GP before you take this supplement to ensure that you take the right dosage, and to be sure that it does not interact with any other medication that you already take.

N-acetylcysteine:

This antioxidant has been suggested to oxidative stress, and studies have shown that adding just 2 grams of this supplement a day to people who are suffering from bipolar disorder, alongside their traditional bipolar medication can actually help to significantly improve their symptoms of depression, mania, and overall quality of life.

Again though, it is important to speak to your doctor before you start taking any additional medication, even if it is natural, to ensure that you are taking the correct dosage.

Inositol:

This synthetic vitamin has been suggested to improve depression. One study showed that people with bipolar disorder who were experiencing a depressive episode, who were given inositol for up to sixteen weeks alongside their usual treatment plan showed that they recovered from their depressive episode, and then experienced no other mood episode symptoms for eight weeks.

St John’s Wort:

There is a lot of speculation surrounding the use of St. Johns wort as a form of alternative therapy treatment for depression.

Some studies suggest that it can be very effective; however, it is so important to get the dosage right, so it is very important that you discuss this with a medical professional to ensure that you are getting the dosage right to see the effectiveness.

Learn some simple calming techniques:

Stress and anxiety can make the symptoms of bipolar much more complicated. However; learning some simple calming techniques can really help to reduce these outside factors that can contribute to your symptoms.

Simple techniques include; massage therapy, yoga, acupuncture, and meditation. Although it should be stressed that these techniques will not treat bipolar disorder by themselves, they can be a great way of helping you to manage your symptoms and could be a really valuable part of your treatment plan.

Make some simple lifestyle changes:

If you are leading a more destructive lifestyle, these can definitely exacerbate your symptoms, so although making some simple lifestyle changes will not treat your bipolar alone, these changes can significantly enhance your treatment, as well as helping to stabilise your mood.

Consider these simple changes: regular exercise, which can help to stabilise moods, ease depression and increase sleep; adequate sleep, which can help to stabilize your mood and reduce irritability ; and to eat healthy foods. Include plenty of fish and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, and reduce your intake of saturated and trans fats, as these are linked to brain chemical imbalances.

Bipolar disorder or manic-depressive illness is a mental disorder. In this condition, the person faces unusual shifts in energy, activity levels, mood, and the daily activities. It is can be the very disturbing phase for both the patient and the people around.

The exact cause of the disorder is not yet known. However, researchers conclude it may be because of few of the following issues.

Chemical imbalance in the brain

Physical change or damage to the brain

Alcohol or drug abuse

There are many treatments which cure bipolar disorder, which is long and complicated.

Home remedies are better as they do not have much side effects, alongside they also treat other brain disorders.

Brahmi or bacopa is a mild stimulant and sedative. It enhances the memory power and relieves from mental strain.

Drink juice extract of Brahmi leaves every day.

Adding Brahmi ghee to diet.

Head massage with Brahmi oil.

1. Flaxseed oil

Flaxseed oil is one of the best herbs to fight depression which can also be the cause of bipolar disorder. In addition, it also relaxes the nerves.

Taking flaxseed oil on empty stomach.

Adding flax seeds while preparing roti or bread.

1. Valerian root

Valerian root eases nerves and induces healthy sleep. It treats bipolar disorder to a great extent and also depression. Alongside, valerian root also treats a migraine and cancer.

Taking valerian root along with mint leaves neutralizes the potent flavor of the herb.

Ashwagandha is one of the best natural nervine tonics. It removes the symptoms of bipolar disorder and helps in improving cognitive functions. They are reaction time, auditory-verbal, and social cognition.

Hopelessness, panic, and lethargy also lead to bipolar disorder. Ginseng removes lethargy and laziness. Besides, it also gives energy to the patient.

1. Passionflower

Passion flower contains sedative and tranquilizing properties. These provide relief from breathlessness and excitability. Consuming of this helps in balancing neurotransmitters in the brain. It also treats from insomnia.

Snakeroot is one of the best herbs to treat anxiety and restlessness. These are one of the primary symptoms of bipolar disorders. These also play a role in treating depression and helps to induce proper sleep, as these issues can also lead to bipolar disorder.

1. Licorice root

Licorice root helps in enhancing the production of essential and active hormones in the brain. It improves and brings calming effect to the nervous system. In addition, it also treats indigestion and other stomach disorders.

Everyone knows that meditation is one of the best technique to improve brain functions and soothe the nervous system. Meditation enhances the connections and brain impulses. In addition, it also clears all the blockages and mental stress from the brain.

Yoga is similar to meditation, but it also works effectively in treating the physical disorders. The exercises involving deep poses bring calm and soothe all the systems in the body. It helps in relieving both physical and mental stress from body and mind.

Besides, following few healthy lifestyle habits help in both treating and preventing bipolar disorder.

Maintain regular time for sleeping and eating

Have proper sleep

Do exercises every day

Avoid alcohol and other harmful drugs

Talk to family and friends. Talking positively to the patients gives them hope and belongingness.

Unlike others, brain disorders drain the person both in physical and mental aspects and lead to many dangerous scenarios. Bipolar disorder is one such disease. It takes the most precious parts of life like relations and time. Treating these people with proper care and talking to them and giving psychological therapies helps a lot. Joining support groups is also one healthy habit for the patients.

Schizoaffective disorder is its own unique disease, with its own unique challenges. So why are there no unique drugs and hardly any unique research available for this debilitating disease? Schizoaffective disorder is an orphan disease, often lumped in with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia and not clearly identified as its own separate condition. This means research on the efficacy of medications in schizoaffective disorder is minimal at best. At Fountainhead Clinic, we view schizoaffective disorder as a separate diagnosis and tailor treatment to that of the individual and his or her unique symptoms.

Schizoaffective disorder is characterized by persistent delusions and hallucinations, most often associated with schizophrenia, accompanied by symptoms of an affective mood disorder, either major depressive episodes (depressive type), or manic episodes (with or without depression, in the bipolar type), characteristic of bipolar disorder. It is often misdiagnosed because the initial presenting symptoms may only be delusions/hallucinations or a manic or depressive episode. Further exploration into a thorough history is not done, thereby missing clues as to the schizoaffective nature of the disease process. Conventional management of the disorder is often poor because of this lack of insight into the actual diagnosis and the lack of research into proper medication management. The sad part about this is, when managed well, schizoaffective disorder actually has a better prognosis (meaning greater chance of remission and higher functioning) than schizophrenia.

At Fountainhead Clinic, we take an individualized approach to every treatment, finding the best medicine for the individual that will stimulate healing and those with schizoaffective disorder are no exception.

How do you treat schizoaffective disorder naturally?

At Fountainhead Clinic we have developed a system of treating mental health disorders that is second to none. The first step of our process involves looking at the patient as an individual and whole person. We take their diagnosis into consideration secondly, as a means to guide us in our therapeutic decision-making. Lastly we consider obstacles to cure, and use other therapies to remove these obstacles and help aid the healing process.

Homeopathy:

The first step in our treatment method involves the use of homeopathy. Homeopathy is a system of medicine which stimulates the body to heal itself. When homeopathic medicines are prescribed properly, they work quickly to alleviate symptoms and improve overall health. At Fountainhead clinic we feel very strongly that homeopathy is the most effective treatment and the most vital step to our success in helping someone achieve perfect health.

Remove obstacles to cure:

Occasionally there are roadblocks in homeopathic treatment, meaning there is something that is preventing a person from being capable of healing, even with the power of homeopathy. This could be anything from a thyroid imbalance, to a nutritional deficiency, to a toxic relationship. At Fountainhead clinic we are trained to identify these obstacles to cure, and remove them (when possible), so that the healing process can continue smoothly.

Supportive therapies:

Any additional therapies that we choose to implement, based on a person’s individual need, is only to assist the healing process stimulated by homeopathy. This includes orthomolecular medicine, nutrition, thyroid therapies, medications, and supplements.

Medication Management:

Click here to read more about medication management.

Patient Story

Dan is a 22-year-old male that came to Dr. Janikula seeking help for schizoaffective disorder. He had been on many anti-psychotics with limited success, and was facing a last resort medication, Clozaril, as his only option. He was hoping to avoid having to take the medication because in his opinion, his previous prescriptions had caused more harm than they had helped, and he was worried about what would happen to him if this medication also failed to help him. He had been in and out of hospitals for his condition, each stay longer than the last. He was starting to feel hopeless.

Dan’s symptoms began in high school with delusions of persecution and mood instability. They progressed to include visual and auditory hallucinations, the worst involving violence against his parents. He felt frightened most of the time, and had started to withdraw greatly from his life. He was no longer able to work or live on his own. His mood continued to fluctuate between periods of extreme depression and mania. His hallucinations remained, even when his mood felt stable. At times, the visions of violence, and the voices he was hearing telling him to hurt himself and others became so overwhelming that he would himself become violent out of an intense fear. A few times the police had to be called to the house because he was threatening his mother with a knife.

During the interview with Dan and his mother, Dr. Janikula discovered that Dan’s symptoms were always worse at night. He had a particularly strong fear of the dark and of being alone. Many nights he would awaken screaming at the top of his lungs, his mother would go into his room and observe him flailing his arms around, striking at imaginary objects, with a terrified expression on his face. She would go over to soothe him and he would grasp at her frantically, holding her tightly. They started leaving the light on, which seemed to help somewhat with his nighttime hallucinations. Dan also had a peculiar fear of and aversion to water. His mother could hardly convince him to shower once a week because he was so frightened of the running water. Dehydration was also a problem because he would frequently choke when trying to take a sip of water, which made him averse to drinking.

Based on Dan’s most individual, characteristic symptoms Dr. Janikula prescribed the homeopathic remedy Stramonium 200C.

After six months of treatment with a few adjustments to his homeopathic remedies, Dan is doing much better. His mood has remained relatively stable with only one mild episode of depression, which was quickly corrected, and no manias. His visual hallucinations have decreased incrementally over the past few months and he has not experienced any in the last month. Though he still hears some voices, they are no longer saying horrible things and he feels like he has some control over quieting them. He is able to sleep through the night with the light off, and is no longer fearful of water.

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ATTENTION:

Fountainhead Naturopathic has begun proceedings to voluntarily wind up and dissolve. As of December 19th 2015, Fountainhead Clinic has ceased operations.

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Bipolar disorder is a medical and mental illness that impacts your mood, behavior and daily level of functioning. This illness causes mild to severe bouts of depression and mania or mixed episodes of both. During manic episodes, sleep deprivation may occur because of an increase in brain chemical activity associated with energy. This chemical imbalance alters and lowers melatonin production. Melatonin is important for stimulating sleep. Prolonged bouts of mania can eventually result in increased irritability, aggression and recklessness. Part of the treatment process for bipolar disorder is aimed at stabilizing a regular sleep schedule to reduce manic episodes.

If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.

Discuss sleep concerns with your physician to obtain recommendations that suit your specific condition. Bipolar disorder is a serious medical condition, and use of melatonin supplements is cautioned to prevent adverse interactions. Melatonin can be stimulated naturally or with over-the-counter supplements; however, this is not advised without the supervision of your physician.

Ambien Alternatives

Activate natural melatonin with a light box. A light box is a small contraption used to mimic outdoor light and stimulate chemical changes in your brain. When used properly, this box can regulate your sleep cycles by generating melatonin production. Light-box therapy is used for different forms of depression and rapid-cycling bipolar disorder, notes “Psychiatric Times.” Consult with your physician regarding the amount of light needed to manage your symptoms. Light boxes are sold over the counter and are generally used for 30 minutes each morning to regulate your sleep pattern.

Eat foods containing melatonin. Low doses of melatonin are in cherries, walnuts and olive oil, as well as in other varieties of fruits and vegetables. Melatonin in foods may not induce sleep; however, it does provide healthy levels of the hormone to aid in stabilizing brain chemicals associated with symptoms of irritability. Talk to your physician for nutritional recommendations of foods with melatonin.

Side Effects of a Melatonin Overdose

Change your environment. Your brain is triggered to produce melatonin upon darkness. Regulate your sleep pattern by creating a sleep environment that mimics nighttime darkness. Cover your windows with black sheets or curtains and create a sleeping area that is comfortable. Go to bed and wake up at the same times each day. Do not oversleep, because this can induce a depressive episode. Aim for seven to nine hours of nightly sleep.

Use a low-dose capsule supplement as an alternative to stimulating natural melatonin. Buy over-the-counter melatonin and follow packaging instructions for a daily dose. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that nightly doses of melatonin at 1 mg is effective for regulating sleep, but this is subject to your individual condition 2. Work with your physician on correct dosing of capsule supplements.

Melatonin alone is not evidenced to effectively treat all of the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Consult your physician on safety of use and other options for treating your symptoms.

Melatonin as a supplement or through natural induction is primarily targeted to trigger a regular sleep pattern, which may or may not alleviate other symptoms of bipolar disorder, such as depression, hyperactivity or insomnia.

Follow physician instructions for the best course of treatment of bipolar disorder.

If you follow popular media, you probably heard the word “mindfulness” used frequently these days. This practice helps people to calm overwhelming emotions and racing thoughts by centering them in the present moment. Many psychiatrists and psychologists now use the technique as a tool in the recovery process.

Our feelings and thoughts are intricately entwined, and changing one can help improve the other. You can use a modern form of this ancient Buddhist practice to alleviate your symptoms, whether or not you have a formal mental health diagnosis. Here’s how mindfulness helps to treat bipolar disorder and how you can get started on your inward journey.

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder formerly went by the name of manic depression. It’s a mental health condition marked by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs and lows. These alternating periods of euphoria and despair may occur only rarely, or they can happen several times a year. Each episode can last from weeks to months.

During the manic or hypomanic phase, the individual may experience an exaggerated sense of well-being. They can seem wired and talk up a storm or go on marathon shopping sprees. When they crash into the depressive phase, they become sad and hopeless. They lose interest in daily activities and may sleep too much or too little. They may find themselves fatigued, and in extreme cases, they may contemplate suicide.

How Mindfulness Impacts the Symptoms of Bipolar

Mindfulness helps people with bipolar disorder in several ways. A recent review of 13 articles found that the practice has a positive effect on anxiety, residual depression and mood regulation. During mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), no studies showed an increase in manic symptoms, suggesting that the technique has few, if any, adverse effects.

Another study examined patients who also underwent MBCT. At the beginning of the study, the ten participants had significantly lower cognitive function than their normative peers. After the 12-week study period, all participants showed substantial improvements in functioning. They also demonstrated a decrease in manic symptoms, although researchers did not consider reductions in depression scores compelling.

When you have bipolar disorder, your emotions can crash into you, not like waves, but full-on tsunamis. It can seem challenging to behave appropriately because your feelings are so strong. Mindfulness can help you identify and label your sensory perceptions and slow down and evaluate the best course before acting.

Suggested Mindfulness Activities for Treating Bipolar

If you want to try mindfulness, either to enhance your bipolar disorder therapy or to treat symptoms independently, here are several activities you can do.

1. Do a Body Scan

You often manifest anxiety in the body — a clenched jaw, a furrowed brow and an aching back. A body scan is a mindfulness technique that draws your awareness of how your physical self manifests your emotions. To begin, sit or lie down comfortably. Take a few deep breaths as you focus your attention on the rise and fall of your chest. Imagine your belly like a balloon, inflating and deflating.

Then, starting at your feet, observe any sensations in your body. When you find an area that feels tight or tense, take note of it and breathe. Concentrate on letting those muscles unclench with each exhalation.

2. Use the STOP Technique

This practice can help you anytime you feel emotions starting to overwhelm you throughout the day. The acronym stands for the following:

• Stand up and breathe: Feel your feet grounded into the earth, and stand tall, stretching your head toward the sky.
• Tune into your body: Like a short body scan, identify any areas where you feel tension or pain. Also, notice any pleasant sensations. Nurture the euphoric feelings with each inhale and blow away stress as you exhale.
• Observe: Lift your eyes and locate something in your surroundings that you find beautiful or which makes you smile. Pause and give silent thanks for it.
• Possibility: Ask yourself, “What is possible at this moment?” Take the best step.

3. Try the Five Senses Exercise

In this exercise, you focus your concentration by engaging your senses. Start by naming five things that you can see, then four things that you can feel. Follow this with three things you can hear, two that you can smell and one you can taste.

Mindfulness Is an Ideal Complementary Therapy for Bipolar Disorder

Mindfulness can interrupt racing thoughts and return your focus to the present moment. Add mindfulness techniques to reap the benefits of this practice in treating bipolar disorder today.

1. Walk for Exercise and as a Healthy Lifestyle

Walking can be one of the best natural remedies for depression and bipolar disorder. It helps to naturally adjust the brain’s chemistry. Walking has proven to be better than medicine (says Duke University) for mild to moderate depression, and helps for major depression and bipolar disorder as well.

2. Attention to Diet and Nutrition

Attention to diet can be of value in overcoming symptoms associated with bipolar disorder. One well-read doctor and authority on bipolar disorder estimates that up to 30% of symptoms associated with bipolar disorder can be remedied through attention to exercise, diet, nutrition, as well as by giving up smoking and any use of alcohol.

Anyone with symptoms of bipolar disorder should consider doing without alcohol completely. Eating whole grain foods such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole grain cereals or oatmeal for breakfast, as well as eating breakfast daily, not skipping meals, cutting back on unhealthy snacks and sugar, cutting out coffee of the diet, both caffeinated and decaffeinated, are all of value in regulating mood swings associated with bipolar disorder.

3. Creating Works of Art can be a Natural Mood Stabilizer

Highs and lows associated with bipolar disorder can be evened out through engaging in painting and drawing. Art can be soothing to the senses and has helped some to level off their mood swings. One to three hours that one might spend “lost” in art, quiets the mind, the soul and takes one away from the bombardment of stimulation that we often become used to through the media.

Create your artwork without music or television, silently, quietly. Turn off the music and TV, and enjoy the peace of art. Art can also help one break away from pornography addiction, it can be helpful in restoring broken self-esteem, and it can be a part of healthy lifestyle changes that lead to recovery from bipolar disorder. Art can be a natural mood stabilizer, and it is free of side-effects.

The mind and mood needs to stabilize, calm and quiet down. The constant stimulation that we often get from the media needs to be turned off. What can you do get some serious quiet and to rest your mind so that it can repair or heal itself? Professional art therapy with a licensed art therapist is also a viable option.

3. Unplug-Movies, Video Games, T.V.

Along with developing interest in art is the idea of unplugging the TV, as well as cutting back on watching movies (or doing without) as well as with video games, especially action or violent movies and video games.

The news can contribute to depression for some, and television commercials with the “sound byte” time-frame of ever-changing visual stimulation, can affect the mind and mood. Those with symptoms of bipolar disorder can recover much faster and without medication, by unplugging all of the above. It will make a difference. Keeping time on the computer balanced also helps one to avoid social isolation.

4. Read – It is Strengthening to the Mind

Reading slows down the mind, strengthens the mind, in a way that TV cannot, and stimulates the imagination. Reading can be, if one reads silently, a quieting experience, quieting on the mind. By reading positive material, reading magazines of interest, nature, for adults or children, positive spiritual literature, Bible reading, this can contribute to a stronger mind, stronger spirituality and more insight into current events, than does watching the news nightly.

Reading opens the imagination, and by reading newspapers and news magazines, one can get a broader and more in depth view of the world’s news, and can more easily get less sensationalized reports. Reading bridges the gap between passive viewing and participating in what one is reading about. Reading takes more mental effort that watching TV or a movie, without overwhelming the mind. Therefore, it is the mode of choice for persons suffering with bipolar disorder for both news and as a form of recreation. Children should learn to be readers, what is more, “a reader is a leader,” and this saying often proves to be true.

5. Build Hope and be Patient with Yourself.

Don’t give up. Things do get better in time. Progress might be slow, but it doesn’t have to be “like this” forever. Associate with positive, supportive people. Learn to be patient and measure success in small increments rather than in total recovery.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and bipolar disorder won’t be conquered in a day. By searching for that desperate “quick fix,” or throwing oneself into a stringent medical regimen, only to stop 3 months later, is self-defeating. There is no miracle cure, but some have found success through lifestyle changes, and though it wasn’t an overnight miracle, the small positive steps led to larger steps and recovery.

So be balanced, patient and know that you can overcome mental health disorders like bipolar disorder, with effort, patience, practical lifestyle changes, yes, getting tough with yourself, prayer, and the support of friends, family, and sometimes professionals as well. Think of recovery as a long-term goal and you won’t get frustrated or disappointed. Please see our website for the article, 50 Ways to Overcome Bipolar Disorder without a Perscription.

The AYCNP is a not-for-profit corporation in Newark, NJ which offers educational resources on non-pharmaceutical solutions in mental health.

More ideas in mental health can be found in the ADHD book: Overcoming ADHD Without Medication: A Parent and Educator’s Guidebook.