Treatment for Bipolar 2 Disorder: A Comprehensive Treatment Plan
So many lives around the globe are impacted by bipolar 2 disorder which is often characterised as a chronic mental health illness. There are different categories of bipolar 2 disorder based on the symptomology and intensity of concerns. One such category is Bipolar 2 Disorder wherein an individual might experience a hypomanic episode and a major depressive episode. Hypomanic episodes are described as less severe forms of mania.
There can be multifaceted symptoms of Bipolar II disorder and therefore the treatment for Bipolar 2 disorder also needs to be planned accordingly. The symptoms experienced can impact the individual's cognitive, behavioural and emotional functioning. Thus, a customised care plan developed by expert professionals for Bipolar II disorder can act as a turning point for one’s wellness journey.
The purpose of this blog is to try and answer the question ‘What is Bipolar 2 disorder?’, ‘What is the treatment for Bipolar 2 disorder?’ and ‘How to find the right mental healthcare professionals for an effective treatment for bipolar disorder?’
This write-up is only for awareness purposes and not an alternative to mental health professionals’ help for Bipolar II disorder. It should not be used for a specific person’s concerns; proper help from qualified experts should be taken for diagnosis, assessment and treatment planning.
What is Bipolar 2 Disorder?
Hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes are major characteristics of Bipolar 2 disorder. The episodes are less severe in comparison to those experienced during bipolar I disorder. It is a mood disorder thereby one may experience frequent changes in mood impacting the diverse aspects of life such as professional life, interpersonal relationships and overall health.
One may also experience a stable mood in between the cycle of hypomanic episodes and major depressive episodes. A few symptoms that one might experience during hypomanic and major depressive episodes are mentioned in the table below:
| HYPOMANIC EPISODE | DEPRESSIVE EPISODE |
|---|---|
| Extreme happiness | Feeling upset |
| Feeling irritated | Feeling tired |
| Speaking quickly | Unable to enjoy things one earlier found pleasurable |
| Risk-taking behaviour | Decreased self-esteem |
| Adventurous behaviour | Experiencing hopelessness |
| Decreased sleep | Self-harm and/or suicidal behaviour |
| Spending excessive money | Decreased physical activity |
Assessment and diagnosis of Bipolar II disorder can be done with the help of proper psychological assessments, behavioural observations, self-reporting by the individual and sharing of caregivers. Psychiatrists and psychologists can contribute together to diagnose and develop treatment plans properly.
What is the Treatment for Bipolar 2 Disorder?
Pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy are two major categories of treatment options available for Bipolar 2 disorder. The specific combination of treatment options used for an individual may vary based on their concerns, comorbid illnesses and past experience with specific treatment methods. Here is how different treatment options can contribute towards an individual’s better well-being:
Medications
These can be crucial for stabilising mood during hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes. Medications can include mood stabilisers, antipsychotic medications and anti-depressants. They may also be used during emergencies.
Individual Psychotherapy
Individual therapy sessions can offer a safe space for the person to open up about their journeys, identify their goals and achieve those with the help of specific therapeutic modalities. Several therapies can be used for Bipolar II disorder, the professional may use the one that is most suitable for the individual’s concerns. A few of these therapies include:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT focuses on an individual’s feelings, thoughts and behaviours. The maladaptive and unhelpful patterns are identified and gradually worked upon.
Expressive Arts Therapy
If an individual finds it challenging to express oneself verbally then the therapist may explore art, music and other modalities for helping the client express oneself.
Interpersonal Therapy
Bipolar II disorder might lead to impaired relationships because of the individual’s shifting mood and behaviour. Interpersonal therapy allows one to understand better about social relationships and healthily manage them.
Family Focused Therapy
Caregivers and family members can play a pivotal role in one’s wellness journey. As a part of family-focused therapy, the behavioural traits are identified and communication skills are improved.
Group Therapy Sessions
A group of individuals fighting their battles with bipolar disorder can come together to support each other through professional group therapy sessions. Psycho-education, empowering others through one’s journeys and fostering a sense of community can be a few crucial aspects of group therapy sessions.
The goal of using these diverse treatment options includes:
- Better understanding an individual’s experience with Bipolar II disorder and supporting them accordingly.
- Learning how to identify early warning signs and risk factors to manage them at a suitable time.
- Develop a crisis plan, and safety plan if needed.
- Maintaining recovery and aiming for long-term wellness.
How to Find Professionals for the Treatment of Bipolar II Disorder?
As one embarks on the journey towards wellness finding suitable mental health professionals who are competent for supporting Bipolar II disorder-related concerns becomes extremely crucial. Here are a few ways through which one can try ensuring they are seeking support from expert professionals for the treatment of Bipolar II disorder:
- Qualifications and license of the professional
- Ethical guidelines that the professional abides by
- Reputation of the professional
- Client testimonials and feedback
- Additional certifications of the professional
These are a few parameters that can help one better understand how to find a suitable professional for the treatment of Bipolar II disorder.
Athena Behavioral Health for the Treatment of Bipolar II Disorder
Athena Behavioral Health is one of the leading mental health facilities for supporting individuals in their mental health recovery. Our team encompasses qualified and skilled mental health professionals who work collaboratively with individuals to achieve their mental health goals.
Take the first step towards stability in an empathetic environment provided by Athena Behavioral Health! We offer a wide range of bipolar disorder treatment options and develop tailored treatment plans using evidence-based strategies. The provision of both in-patient and out-patient facilities gives flexibility to the patients about their treatment journey.
Contact our care team today and explore suitable treatment options for Bipolar II disorder. You can reach out via call at +91 9289086193 or you can mail us at customercare@athenabhs.com and we will together take small steps leading to big changes!
