Friday, November 21, 2008

Bipolar -Two Effective Approaches for Controlling Mood Swings

By Harold Ulvaeus

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is widely used in conjunction with medication to help control the symptoms of bipolar.Part of the therapy is to help the person to overcome the swings of mood, from mania to depression, and to recover from the psychological effects of those mood swings. Usually the symptoms will recur, frequently as the result of some event, sometimes spontaneously. Helping the person to be prepared, and to recognize the symptoms is part of the clinicians task.

It may be attractive to discontinue therapy when things are smooth but life events, return of symptoms are signs to resume the therapy sessions. Even when there is no apparent need for therapy, it is advisable to keep in contact with your therapist.

Positive feedbacks also provide positive reinforcement from your therapist. Bonding between patients and the therapist is very important especially when the patient is having a hard time with regards to the treatment process and controlling of symptoms.

Therapy can be an important stabilizing force in the persons life. Therapy sessions are important to monitor progress, creating a map and understanding of the episodes,and coping mechanisms. Receiving objective, positive and constructive feed back from the therapist can be a life line when swimming in the depths of an episode.

Remember that optimal treatment of people having bipolar disorder requires an effective approach which integrates psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.

Those who are struggling with the disease have to know effective ways in controlling mood swings, avoiding relapse, and obtaining the effectiveness of treatments using medicines through utilizing the bipolar workbook. This is truly a sound framework for helping people with bipolar disorder, thus it doesn't have to affect you throughout your life. - 15437

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