Alternative Treatments for Bipolar Disorder and Depression

In recent years much research has been done on alternative treatments for bipolar disorder and depression. Traditional medications do not work for everyone, and scientists, doctors, and patients have been searching for new ways to treat the symptoms of these disorders. None of the treatments listed in this article are intended to replace the care of your doctor or mental health professional, and they should be tried only under the supervision of someone specifically trained to administer these treatments.

Unfortunately, many holistic or alternative therapies are not yet covered under most insurance plans. Hopefully this will change in the near future as more studies are proving just how effective these treatments can be.

Below are some alternatives to traditional medication that may be covered by your insurance provider.

ECT (electroconvulsive therapy):

ECT is very effective in the treatment of depression, psychosis, and recurring mania, and is unsurpassed by any other treatment in psychiatry. Severely depressed patients who are not responding to antidepressant therapy are at serious risk of attempting suicide. These patients may respond very well to treatment with electroconvulsive therapy.

ECT has evolved over the years into a safe option for bipolar patients. Modern procedure involves the administration of a general anesthetic and a short-acting muscle relaxant. The patient is asleep and feels nothing during the treatment. This new approach to ECT does not cause the body to convulse, nor does it cause broken bones or substantial memory loss like it once did. Patients suffer little chronic memory loss and wake feeling only slightly confused and tired. A benefit of ECT is that it is safe for use during pregnancy. Most drugs are not.

Light Therapy (phototherapy):