Alternative Therapies For Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that can cause extreme shifts in mood, energy, and behavior, significantly impacting one’s quality of life. Approximately 5.7 million adults in the United States live with bipolar disorder. 

While traditional treatments such as medication and psychotherapy are effective for many people with bipolar disorder, there has been an increasing focus on alternative therapies to help ease symptoms. Examples include lifestyle changes like nutritious eating or regular exercise, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches, and spiritual practices. Below, explore alternative therapies for bipolar disorder.

How do you treat bipolar disorder?

The primary modalities used to treat bipolar disorder are prescription medications and psychotherapy. Mood stabilizers and antipsychotics are the most common types of medication prescribed for bipolar disorder. Antidepressants may also be used to address depressive symptoms, though they can cause or worsen symptoms of mania for some people. Always consult with a healthcare professional prior to starting or stopping any medication.

Psychotherapy can help an individual learn more about bipolar disorder, address the condition’s emotional challenges, and develop coping mechanisms for depressive and manic symptoms. Commonly utilized forms of psychotherapy for bipolar disorder are cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Through cognitive-behavioral therapy, for example, participants can identify the negative thoughts that may be causing or exacerbating certain symptoms of bipolar disorder. A professional administering cognitive-behavioral therapy (or other modalities) can also help people with bipolar disorder incorporate complementary therapies or alternative treatments into their care plan. 

The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.

Alternative therapy options for bipolar disorder

While traditional treatments such as medication and therapy are often effective, some people may turn to alternative therapies to complement their treatment plans. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has gained popularity in managing mood disorders, including bipolar disorder. These approaches involve non-traditional methods rather than conventional psychiatric treatments.

CAM techniques such as nutritional supplements, acupuncture, and yoga, for example, can be safe and effective ways to help individuals manage mood swings and reduce symptoms of stress and depression. However, consult a mental health professional before starting alternative techniques that involve physical changes to the body. Below are a few CAM techniques to consider. 

Mindfulness meditation 

One widely used CAM approach for managing bipolar disorder is mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs). MBI techniques involve cultivating mind-body awareness, which can help you control mood swings, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being. MBIs may include practices like mindfulness meditation, body scans, and breathing exercises, all of which can contribute to better mood stability. Studies suggest that practicing mindfulness and engaging in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy may improve mood and reduce symptoms of bipolar disorder.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicinal practice, is another CAM approach that may be helpful for managing bipolar disorder. This technique involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerve endings. Acupuncture may reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are often associated with bipolar disorder.

Light therapy

Light therapy involves sitting near a specialized light box that emits bright light. This treatment is often used to treat seasonal affective disorder, but some studies suggest that it may also be helpful for people with bipolar disorder. Light therapy is thought to help control circadian rhythms and improve mood.

According to researchers, bright light therapy may be a viable option for reducing depressive symptoms in individuals who experience bipolar disorder. However, light therapy may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with medical conditions such as epilepsy or certain eye diseases, may be advised to avoid this treatment. Talk to your doctor before starting light therapy. 

Yoga and physical exercise

Yoga is a mind-body practice that has roots in ancient Indian philosophy. This practice incorporates meditation, breathing exercises, and physical poses with varying levels of physical demand. Yoga and exercise can be helpful CAM approaches for individuals with bipolar disorder. Specifically, yoga may improve mood, increase self-awareness, and offer a sense of inner peace. Exercise can reduce stress, improve sleep, and reduce mood fluctuations.

Personalized and holistic nutritional guidance

Another CAM approach is nutritional supplementation, which may be helpful for some people. Certain dietary supplements may improve mood, reduce inflammation, and support brain health. However, consult a physician before taking any supplement, as certain supplements may interact with bipolar medication.

Numerous clinical trials suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fatty fish like salmon and tuna, may alleviate symptoms of bipolar depression. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be found in supplements, typically in capsule form. Researchers believe that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and control neurotransmitters in the brain. However, these results should be reexamined and replicated in other studies, and no supplement has been approved as a “treatment” for bipolar disorder or any mental illness. 

Research suggests a connection between bipolar disorder and vitamin D deficiency. In addition to challenges related to mental health, problems with physical health (e.g., osteoporosis) have been associated with low levels of vitamin D. According to experts, though, more research needs to be done before vitamin D supplementation can be recommended as an adjunct to standard methods of treating depression and mania. 

Herbal remedies

There is evidence that herbal medicine can alleviate bipolar disorder symptoms when used as an adjunct to medication. In one randomized controlled trial, researchers found that individuals who used herbal medicines alongside a mood stabilizer experienced greater improvements in depression symptoms than those who only used medication. 

Herbs like valerian, lemon balm, and ashwagandha may reduce stress, cognitive impairment, and sleep disruptions, all of which are common in individuals with bipolar disorder. For example, in a systematic review of randomized controlled trials, researchers found that valerian significantly increased participants’ chances of experiencing improved sleep. 

Consult with a healthcare professional before utilizing herbal medicine. Some herbal remedies may exacerbate certain symptoms of bipolar disorder. For example, St. John’s wort can alleviate moderate depression but may cause or exacerbate mania. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, St. John’s wort may also contribute to psychosis. For these reasons, consult with a healthcare professional prior to utilizing St. John’s wort or another herbal medicine.

When to consider alternative therapies

Individuals with bipolar disorder might consider alternative therapies if they have challenges managing their symptoms or when traditional treatments are insufficient. Alternative therapies can help individuals find additional strategies that are more suitable for their personal needs or that address the unique symptoms of bipolar depression and mania they experience.

However, alternative therapies are not a substitute for traditional medical treatment. They may not be useful for everyone, and their effectiveness can vary widely. Consider speaking with a healthcare professional before trying any alternative therapies. They can help you ensure these are safe alternatives that do not interact with your prescribed medication.

Living with bipolar disorder symptoms

Managing symptoms of bipolar disorder might be easier if certain strategies are implemented in your daily life. Therapists may develop personalized treatment plans based on findings from their initial assessment. The alternative therapies discussed above are potentially viable options for individuals with bipolar disorder, but some may work better than others, depending on the individual. 

Practices a licensed therapist may help you implement in your daily life could include:

• Being mindful of mood shifts and inciting factors in symptoms

• Avoiding substance use

• Maintaining a support network of friends, family, and loved ones

• Practicing self-care

• Incorporating stress and anxiety-management techniques

Online therapy for mood disorders

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but working with a licensed therapist online through a platform like BetterHelp may help you learn skills to improve your quality of life and develop healthy management techniques. Setting up an online therapy appointment may be easier than scheduling in-person counseling since you don’t have to spend time commuting and parking, for example. 

According to researchers, online-based therapy and mindfulness training may be an effective form of treatment for reducing symptoms of bipolar disorder. One study found that online mindfulness training helped individuals with bipolar disorder improve their overall quality of life. The methods used in online therapy may include some alternative therapies, but this option may be based on the discretion of your online treatment provider and your individual preferences.