Bipolar Treatment
In recent years there have been major advances in the clinical understanding and treatment of bipolar disorder. Advances in genetics, brain imaging and pharmacology have increased understanding of the complex treatment process. Effective treatments are available for both the depressive and manic episodes of bipolar mood disorder. For the depressive phase of this illness, anti-depressant medications are effective. Anti-depressants are not addictive; they slowly return the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, taking 1-4 weeks to achieve their positive effects. When people are in a manic phase, it can often be difficult to persuade them that they should continue treatment. Individual and group therapy can help the person understand the importance of proper treatment of the disease.
Although manic episodes are the distinguishing feature of bipolar disorder, it appears that depression is the predominant mood disturbance and that much of the pain and suffering associated with bipolar disorder results from this. Moreover, it is extremely common for clients suffering from bipolar disorder to have a co-occurring substance abuse issue. Research has shown that pharmacological treatments and psychological interventions are effective short-term and long-term treatments for the disorder. For example, clients report that it can be difficult to focus on therapy and to discipline themselves to do anything while they are severely depressed. Medication can relieve the symptoms that prevent them from developing the skills and practicing the techniques that will allow them to get the most out of therapy.
Among the therapies utilized in Phase II at Morningside Recovery is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). According to Primary Therapist Debbie Powers, M.A., MFTI, this process helps those with bipolar disorders unlearn unhealthy thinking processes. Clients are given exercises by therapists so that the CBT is part of their daily lives. Therapy helps the bipolar clients break free from the negative thought processes, replacing distorted thinking processes. Through therapy, the clients learn how to balance themselves, reject catastrophic thinking and make better decisions. Clients explore their issues in various group settings according to their individual needs. In groups they receive supportive energy, feedback, and insight into their problems from people suffering from similar addictions or diagnoses. On an individual basis, therapists promote honesty instead of secrecy, and explore issues with patients in terms of their unique personality and personal history. For bipolar clients, treatment is all about relating to their experience, instead of sticking to a particular theoretical orientation.
Morningside Recovery empowers clients to change the behaviors which are not helpful to their daily living. Through workshops and exercises, clients learn they can choose how they feel and behave. Whenever a person is faced with a problem or difficult situation, their thoughts and beliefs will come into play. Thought patterns are very important in bipolar disorder. Four of the most significant of many irrational beliefs common to bipolar disorder are: I’m the best/worst; I must achieve and excel to be loved by others; other people should always treat me kindly; things have to be the way I want them to be. During treatment these concepts are challenged and the mania and depression begin to ease. Regardless of the cause of the bipolar disorder, Morningside believes that a client’s thoughts about the disorder can greatly impact the disorder itself. With access to appropriate treatment and support, Morningside believes that people with bipolar mood disorder can lead full and productive lives.
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