Bipolar Disorder: Alternative Treatments You Might Consider

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Some people suffering from bipolar disorder reported that opting for alternative treatments help relieve symptoms. Multiple research studies found that depression can benefit from alternative therapies. However, further research is necessary for bipolar disorder. Before we start, we would like you to remember that it’s best to get the advice of a doctor before actually opting for alternative treatments. Dietary supplements and alternative therapies might have certain interactions with your medication. Unintended side effects might also occur. Alternative methods of treatment are not intended to replace conventional methods and medications for mental health. Some have reported that combining conventional therapies with alternative ones led to increased benefits.

Rhodiola rosea

This is more commonly known as golden root or arctic root. It is beneficial in treating depression of mild to moderate cases. Rhodiola rosea is actually a mild type of stimulate and may lead to insomnia. Side effects also include nausea and vivid dreaming. Before opting for Rhodiola rosea, it is best to ask your doctor. This is true especially if you have breast cancer history. This stimulant herb binds with that of estrogen receptors. Thus, it increases a person’s risk of getting breast cancer.

Fish Oil

Fish and fish oil are great sources of two omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These two types of fatty acids may actually affect brain chemical associated with that of mood disorders. It is believed that bipolar disorder is uncommon in countries where citizens consume a lot of fish oil and fish. People suffering from depression has also been found to have lower omega-3 fatty acid levels within their blood. Omega-3 fatty acid helps to reduce symptoms of depression. It also promotes healthy brain function. These fatty acids help maintain stability of mood and reduce aggression and irritability. Persons suffering from bipolar disorder may opt for fish oil supplements to help attain recommended daily intake levels. However, side effects might also occur. These include nausea, stomach pain, heartburn, diarrhea, belching, and bloating.

S-adenosylmethionine

A review of multiple studies concluded that S-adenosylmethionine supplements might benefit people suffering from depression. This substance occurs naturally in the body. A type of amino acid, this might also help those with bipolar disorder. Certain dosages of this supplement might lead to serious side effects such as stimulating manic episodes. It is best to get the advice of your doctor regarding proper dosages of S-adenosylmethionine. You should also ask its interactions with your current medications.

Choline

This type of vitamin is water-soluble. Is believed to be beneficial for manic symptoms in rapid cycling bipolar disorder. One study involved patients who took 2000 mg to 7200 mg of choline daily. This is in combination with lithium. The result was an improvement in manic symptoms.

St. John’s Wort

Multiple studies have mixed results when it comes to St. John’s wort and its efficiency in depression. A significant problem found in these studies was the difference in the forms of St. John’s wort used. Dosages given were also varied.

N-acetylcysteine

This is one form of antioxidant that helps in the reduction of oxidative stress. One specific literature review reported.that adding 2g of N-acetylcysteine daily to traditional medications of bipolar disorder resulted in significant improvements in mania, depression, and overall quality of life.

Inositol

This vitamin is synthetically made and is believed to help people with depression. In a certain study, 66 patients suffering from bipolar disorder were given inositol as an additional treatment. The patients were suffering from major depressive episodes resistant to antidepressants in combination with mood stabilizers. Results reported that 17.4% of patients who were given inositol recovered from experiencing depressive episodes. Plus, they experienced no symptoms of mood episode for about 8 weeks.

IPSRT

This is called interpersonal and social rhythm therapy. Bipolar disorder is accompanied by lack of sleep and erratic sleep patterns. These might worsen the symptoms of the said disorder. IPSRT aims to help patients suffering from bipolar disorder to maintain normal, regular routines. It also aims to help patients adopt healthy, quality sleep habits. Another goal of IPSRT involves helping people solve problems that might interrupt or hinder them from going through their regular routine. IPSRT must be done in conjunction with bipolar disorder medications. It helps to reduce frequency of depressive and manic episodes.

Calming Techniques

Stress is commonly associated with bipolar disorder. Alternative therapies can be used to relieve stress and anxiety. These include meditation, acupuncture, yoga, and massage therapy. The said techniques do not cure bipolar disorder outright. But it helps in managing of symptoms. It can be a great addition to a comprehensive treatment plan.

Lifestyle Changes

Changing your lifestyle, again, won’t cure bipolar disorder ultimately. However it might promote treatment and stabilize moods. Lifestyle changes might include exercising regularly, getting adequate amounts of sleep, and eating healthy meals. Exercising Regularly Exercise is a great way to improve mood stabilization. It helps relieve symptoms of depression and improve quality of sleep. Getting Adequate Amounts Of Sleep Getting enough sleep helps stabilize moods and decrease irritability. To sleep better, you can try maintaining a regular routine and making a relaxing bedroom environment. Eating Healthy Foods Eating fish high in omega-3 fatty acids can be a great addition to your lifestyle. Reduce your intake of trans fats and saturated fats. These fats are associated with chemical imbalances in the brain.

To Wrap It All Up

Research has found out that alternative treatments might be beneficial for people suffering from bipolar disorder. These non-conventional treatments range from taking supplements and opting for massage therapy to implementing lifestyle changes. However, alternative treatments might be done only upon the advice of your doctor. It can be done in combination with traditional treatment methods for enhanced benefits. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]