Bipolar I is a serious disorder that is considered to be the most severe form of an illness that can set the world askew for the person afflicted. It is characterized by one or more manic or mixed episodes and depression may also be part of the picture.

Symptoms are severe enough to disrupt work, impact on relationships, and destroy constructive living patterns. Bipolar type 1 can present a confusing mix of alternating emotions and behaviors.

A person in the grip of mania may have a decreased need for sleep, have an excess of energy (like a running motor that just cannot be shut off), be easily distracted and have racing thoughts. An individual may engage in spending sprees or inappropriate sexual encounters, become delusional, experience hallucinations, and lose touch with reality; thus becoming a danger to himself or others. In this scenario, the condition is called bipolar 1 disorder with psychotic features. Hospitalization is often required.

Bipolar I is characterized by what are called mixed episodes, where the person is up and down at the same time. A person in a manic state can become easily irritated or aggressive. Imagine trying to sort through a sea of confusing emotions when you swing from one mood to the other!

A downswing into depression can be crippling, involving withdrawal from normal activities, feelings of despair, uncontrollable crying, anger, appetite changes, and thoughts or attempts at suicide. Inhabiting a world colored by the downside of bipolar type 1 perception can seem like the sun has set and there is nothing to look forward to.

Over the centuries, a pattern has emerged that shows this condition is linked to creativity. Some of the world’s geniuses had the disorder. This creativity—especially in the arts, in music, and in literature, has given the world glimpses into the sublime.

A person with bipolar 1 disorder may be more emotionally reactive. He or she may have greater sensitivity and acuteness. A lack of inhibition related to frontal lobe processes contributes to unconventional forms of expression. In other words, the world is seen through a startling and multi-layered mirror and when creative and artistic expression is vented, the results can be incredible.

If you or someone who know is trying to live with bipolar I, what steps can be taken to lead a life that embraces more balance, where mania is managed and depression reduced?

Treatment is usually initiated with use of a mood stabilizer such as lithium carbonate, valproate sodium, or carbamazepine to control hypomanic or manic episodes. Depressive episodes are treated with an antidepressant but need close monitoring because an antidepressant on its own could accelerate hypomania or mania or rapid cycling in bipolar type 1. Antianxiety or antipsychotic drugs may be used, as well.

Psychotherapy that focuses on cognitive and behavioral or interpersonal issues can be helpful and family involvement is desirable. Education in self-management techniques is invaluable.

Fast Facts About Herbal Remedies

A double-blind trial found that bipolar patients taking 9.6 grams of omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil, showed significant improvement.

Patients taking 5-HTP plus their antidepressant had greater improvement.

Supplemental choline can increase acetylcholine levels, which may affect mood disorders.

The amino acid taurine shows promising results in treating manic depression.

Amino acids, neuronutrients, trace elements of lithium, minerals, herbal extracts—all of these can be combined in a herbal remedy that may be a valuable adjunct to treatment of bipolar 1 disorder.

The brain needs raw materials in the form of nutrients for synthesis of chemical messengers. A brain that is deficient in these nutrient building blocks cannot function efficiently. If you suffer from bipolar I take comfort from the knowledge that there are additional herbal approaches to managing this illness.

As can be seen, bipolar type 1 is a complex illness and a varied treatment approach may present the most benefit. You will have to be patient, in exploring treatments and methods that work best for you.

Bipolar I needs medical management. Naturopaths, nutritionists, and holistic practitioners can also be a valuable resource in determining nutritional approaches when living and coming to terms with this condition.