What is the first-line treatment for bipolar?

First-line treatments for bipolar depressive episodes include lithium or lamotrigine monotherapy. For more severe cases, can add second mood stabilizer (e.g., lamotrigine combined with lithium or divalproex).

What are some coping strategies for bipolar disorder?

Self-help strategies for bipolar disorder

• Monitor your mood. Keep track of your mood daily, including factors such as sleep, medication and events that may influence mood.
• Develop a schedule.
• Sleep hygiene.
• Limit stress.
• Take your time in making decisions.
• Build a good support network.
• Join a support group.
• Exercise.

What is the gold standard for bipolar disorder?

Background. Lithium is considered the gold standard treatment for bipolar disorder (BD). Current clinical guidelines and scientific evidence support its use as a first-line treatment in BD.

How do you assess a bipolar patient?

To determine if you have bipolar disorder, your evaluation may include:

1. Physical exam. Your doctor may do a physical exam and lab tests to identify any medical problems that could be causing your symptoms.
2. Psychiatric assessment.
3. Mood charting.
4. Criteria for bipolar disorder.

What is the most common medication for bipolar disorder?

Lithium. In the UK, lithium is the main medicine used to treat bipolar disorder. Lithium is a long-term treatment for episodes of mania and depression. It’s usually prescribed for at least 6 months.

How do you calm a manic bipolar episode?

Supporting someone who is manic

1. Spend time with your loved one.
2. Answer questions honestly.
3. Don’t take any comments personally.
4. Prepare easy-to-eat meals and drinks.
5. Avoid subjecting your loved one to a lot of activity and stimulation.
6. Allow your loved one to sleep whenever possible.

What are 4 signs of bipolar disorder?

Symptoms – Bipolar disorder

• feeling sad, hopeless or irritable most of the time.
• lacking energy.
• difficulty concentrating and remembering things.
• loss of interest in everyday activities.
• feelings of emptiness or worthlessness.
• feelings of guilt and despair.
• feeling pessimistic about everything.
• self-doubt.

Is there an alternative to lithium for bipolar?

Second generation mood stabilizing anticonvulsants carbamazepine and valproate are now widely used as alternatives or adjuncts to lithium.

Is bipolar caused by diet?

It’s no secret that eating unhealthy foods can lead to a host of ailments. But a lesser-known effect of a poor diet, according to research, is that it can contribute to bipolar mood episodes. And while there is no specific diet recommended for bipolar disorder, certain food choices may help manage manic episodes.

What questions should you ask a bipolar person?

Questions to ask about bipolar disorder

• Why am I being offered an appointment for an assessment?
• What will happen after the appointment?
• Why do you think I’m ill?
• What could have caused my symptoms?
• Who can I contact if I have a crisis or if my symptoms get worse?
• Are there any support organisations in my local area?