The Journey To Recovery After A Diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder diagnosis

So, you have been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder! And now you are wondering what’s next.

As with any diagnosis of illness whether it’s a physical or mental illness, you would be stunned, scared or possibly in denial. The first thing you should do is take time to digest the information you got from your doctor. Take time let it sink in, go home, and think about it. You do not need to rush into doing anything, when absorbing this diagnosis you must remember a diagnosis of bipolar disorder is not the end of the world there are many success stories of patients who sort help, treatment and medication, have recovered and so could you.

Learn about bipolar disorder and depression

It’s important that you learn about the bipolar disorder and depression as well. You know how you feel and you need to understand why you are feeling that way. The more you learn about bipolar disorder, the more you will understand and what this all means to you and your family.

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Discuss treatment options

I highly recommend seeing a Psychiatrist for medication options and a clinical psychologist for psychotherapy. However, some psychiatrist do both medicine and psychotherapy the both are very important in the recovery process. Once you have had the chance to accept your diagnosis set up an appointment with your psychiatrist and clinical psychologist. Here you can discuss the best treatment options (medication, therapy) that works best for you. Medication is not a one size fit all, what may work for someone else may not work for you. Only a doctor should give advice concerning medication. 

You may need to make lifestyle changes as well for further information on these changes you can consult with your doctor. Make sure to ask about any side effects that the medication has. There are many medications available so be sure to ask your doctor about the pros and cons of the different kinds of medication. When your doctor recommends specific kinds of medications, ask why.

Write down your questions

After you visit to your doctor, you will most likely think of questions you didn’t ask during your session. Use a small notebook include any questions you might need to ask your doctor, you can take this with you to every doctor’s appointment to be sure you’re getting your questions answered.

From now until the end of January I will be doing blogs on bipolar disorder. I have received many request for answers on this disorder. I think it would be beneficial for those with the disorder and for people who have loved ones with the disorder.

Any questions, queries and concerns regarding mental illness please feel free to leave a comment or you can drop me an email. mhcoachingonline@gmail.com