Alternative Treatment for Bipolar Mania

With hundreds of medications on the market, finding the right bipolar treatment can be like finding a needle in a haystack. And if you are already wary of prescription drugs to begin with, or if you find that the side effects are unbearable, than traditional medication might not be right for you.

Diet and Nutrition

Maintaining a healthy diet with proper nutrition is fundamental to lessening the effects of bipolar mania. Even for people who don't have bipolar, foods high in sugar, fat, carbohydrates and caffeine can have negative effects on mood, according to a CBS news article. Avoid these foods and focus on whole grains, good fats like those found in fish and legumes, and foods rich in vitamins B6 and B12, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and folic acid. People suffering from bipolar mania should especially avoid sugar and caffeine as it can be too stimulating.

Exercise

According to an ABC news report, regular exercise outdoors is recommended for bipolar patients. Raising the heart rate for a prolonged period of time (not less than 30 minutes) stimulates the production of endorphins in the body as well as serotonin and creates a feeling of well being. Having a healthy body also translates into having a healthy mind. Also, getting outdoors and being exposed to light, even if it is overcast, is helpful for stabilizing mood.

Dietary Supplements

According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, the natural dietary supplement omega-3 may be helpful in treating bipolar disorder. Omega-3 is found in foods like fatty fish and vegetable oils, and it assists in a number of bodily functions such as muscle relaxation and contraction, blood clotting, cell division and digestion. Although these are available over the counter, they can still have side effects and can interact negatively with other medications you are taking. Consult a doctor prior to taking any supplements.

Meditation

A regular meditation or yoga practice can help to still the mind and calm the obsessive thoughts and behaviors often associated with bipolar mania. By studying the mindfulness techniques central to yoga and meditation, you can learn to have more control over thoughts and feelings and take charge of your moods.

Psychotherapy

Regular consultation with a therapist or counselor is a necessary part of treatment for bipolar disorder. A professional who has experience working with the disorder can help you figure out strategies for managing the disease and living with it more comfortably, with or without medication. By learning and practicing new behaviors and coping strategies, many of the day-to-day struggles of bipolar mania can be avoided or lessened.