Treatment Options

Helping Yourself

Individuals with bipolar disorder are not helpless when it comes to treating this disease. There are a few things that you can do to help aid in the treatment of this disorder.

• Learn Your Triggers: Many times people with bipolar disorder notice that periods of mania or depression are usually preceded by certain events. Certain stressors, or "triggers" are often associated with the onset of manic and depressive episodes in patients. Keeping a journal can help to identify the triggers associated with these episodes.

• Get Help: Most communities have self-help, support groups, and educational materials. It can be very reassuring to talk to others going through the same thing. Here are some examples of some organizations that can help:

1. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance: www.dbsalliance.org, 1-800-826-3632

2. National Mental Health Association: www.nmha.org, 1-800-969- 6642

3. National Institue of Mental Health: www.nimh.nih.gov, 1-866- 615-6464

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.