There are several types of bipolar disorder, which generally produces abnormal highs or lows in mood. The most widespread types of bipolar disorder are bipolar I and bipolar II. While symptoms and patterns in which symptoms occur are similar, people with bipolar II experience less severe manic episodes (known as “hypomania”) than people with bipolar I. A diagnosis of bipolar II also involves an experience of a major depressive episode, which does not apply in a diagnosis of bipolar I. Psychotherapy is an essential part of treatment for bipolar I and II disorders. Therapy includes “interpersonal and social rhythm therapy” (IPSRT), which focuses on establishing a structured routine to help people cope with symptoms; “cognitive behavioral therapy”; and/or “family-focused therapy.”
Treatment for bipolar disorder is critical because it helps most people control their mood swings and other symptoms. The sooner you seek treatment after developing the disorder, the greater your chances are for learning to manage it effectively.
P.S. To treat bipolar disorder, cognitive behavioral therapy challenges negative thoughts and replaces them with positive thoughts, while family-focused therapy seeks to enhance communication with family members and to promote family support.