Bipolar Disorder is classified as a mood disorder. It manifests in the form of extreme mood swings and an inability to function rationally. Individuals suffering from bipolar disorder tend to experience extreme mood fluctuation, from manic highs to suicidal lows.
This fluctuation can be rapid, or it may be exhibited over several days.
Patients are often unaware of their irrational behaviour. When experiencing a manic high, behaviour is often exuberant and risky.
However, this can soon change to agitation and uncontrolled rage to depression.
Given the severe moods swings, individuals suffering from Bipolar Disorders can lose their sense of self and balance. It can lead to a loss of confidence and the low arising from it, can lead to a relapse.
Conventional treatment for Bipolar Disorder involves a continuous regime of prescribed medications and therapy sessions.
While it is essential to stick to this treatment plan, patients, in consultation with their doctors, can pursue alternative, complementary therapies to aid recovery. These natural measures support the course of medication.
Yoga – Exercise is essential for overall well being, more so for individuals suffering from Bipolar Disorder. Yoga is a gentle form of exercise that works out the body and the mind. It is especially good for maintaining mental balance and strength, which is exactly what bipolar patients need. Yoga is known to have a positive and calming effect on the sympathetic nervous system, which regulates the body’s stress response.
Meditation – Meditation teaches you how to calm and control the mind. This is of great use to bipolar patients as they struggle between swings and erratic behaviour. Through regular meditation, these individuals can control mind noise, raging emotions, and nervous agitation. They can learn to control stress and panic, and thus prevent relapse.
Diet – It is essential to maintain a healthy diet that is inclusive of all the major food groups. Furthermore, be sure to include omega 3 rich foods (like cold water fish and dark green vegetables) and foods rich in folates (like green vegetable and citrus fruits). These foods check depression and avoid relapse.
Support Groups – It is never easy to cope with such a stressful condition. This can be hard for both the patient and family. It is therefore very important to join a support group. In this healthy environment you can learn from others and share your own experiences.
It is important to remember that these are not alternatives to medication, but are complementary therapies. Stick to the prescribed medication and in addition to it, eat right and exercise daily.
