Will bipolar ever be cured?

Fact: Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness and there currently is no cure. However, it can be well-managed with medication and talk therapy, by avoiding stress, and maintaining regular patterns of sleeping, eating, and exercise.

Is there hope for bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is not curable, but there are many treatments and strategies that a person can use to manage their symptoms. Without treatment, bipolar disorder may cause unusual mood episodes. People with the condition may alternate between high periods, called manic episodes, and low periods, or depressive episodes.

How many years does bipolar disorder take off your life?

The average reduction in life expectancy in people with bipolar disorder is between nine and 20 years, while it is 10 to 20 years for schizophrenia, between nine and 24 years for drug and alcohol abuse, and around seven to 11 years for recurrent depression.

What is the success rate of treatment for bipolar disorder?

Although there is no cure for bipolar disorder, it is a highly treatable disease. According to the National Advisory Mental Health Council, the treatment success rate for bipolar disorder is a remarkable 80 percent.

Does untreated bipolar get worse with age?

Untreated Bipolar Disorder Bipolar may worsen with age or overtime if this condition is left untreated. As time goes on, a person may experience episodes that are more severe and more frequent than when symptoms first appeared.

Can you be successful with bipolar disorder?

People with bipolar disorder can live a good life, be happy and be successful—just like anybody else. In fact, you might be surprised to find out that some of the greatest and most creative minds have had bipolar disorder. Some of their greatest work has been done during their darkest times.

What happens if you skip maintenance treatment for bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder requires lifelong treatment with medications, even during periods when you feel better. People who skip maintenance treatment are at high risk of a relapse of symptoms or having minor mood changes turn into full-blown mania or depression. Day treatment programs. Your doctor may recommend a day treatment program.

What happens if bipolar disorder is left untreated?

Because bipolar disorder is a chronic illness, treatment must be ongoing. If left untreated, the symptoms of bipolar disorder get worse, so diagnosing it and beginning treatment early is important.

What are the treatment options for bipolar disorder?

Psychotherapy, support groups and psychoeducation about the illness are essential to treating bipolar disorder: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps change the negative thinking and behavior associated with depression. The goal of this therapy is to recognize negative thoughts and to teach coping strategies.

What are the complications of bipolar diagnosis?

Complicating bipolar diagnosis further is the possibility that an individual with mood swings is suffering from a mental illness other than bipolar disorder. A number of other mental disorders are associated with mood swings.