Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder

Prognosis for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a life-long, chronic illness which must be managed carefully at all times. Episodes of mania and depression may recur throughout the person's life but with good medical care and open communication with the doctor, the severity and duration of episodes can be reduced. Early treatment of mania, hypomania, or depression is always more effective than initiating treatment later in an episode. Ongoing monitoring by a health professional also helps prevent complications that can arise from untreated or improperly treated bipolar disorder. A small number of people are resistant to all treatment. People with Bipolar II generally have a better prognosis than those with Bipolar I.

Factors considered important in determining the prognosis of patients with bipolar disorder include the duration between the onset of the symptoms and the beginning of drug therapy, presence or absence of psychotic features, indications of rapid-cycling, and presence of risk factors such as drug abuse or alcohol dependency.

People with bipolar disorder can lead a healthy and productive life if they are properly treated and comply with the treatment program. Without treatment, bipolar disorder worsens with more frequent episodes of mania and depression which become more severe and intense. Drugs and psychotherapy are the most effective treatments. Medications may need to be adjusted in some people more frequently than in others and it is critical for each patient to be followed continuously by a health care professional. The support of family members and friends plays an important role in a positive outcome for bipolar disorder. Patients and family/friends need to be vigilant for early warning signs of relapse and seeking help as quickly as possible.