When Hospitalization Is Necessary For Bipolar Disorder

Hospitalization is sometimes a necessary part of treatment for bipolar disorder. There are two reasons why a psychiatrist may decide to hospitalize a patient with bipolar disorder. The first reason is if the patient is in a crisis. The hospital may be the only way to prevent suicide attempts. Psychiatric hospital personnel closely monitor patients who are at risk of suicide. The hospitalization allows the patient to emerge from the crisis with the help of medication and therapy.

The other reason a bipolar patient may be hospitalized is to stabilize the patient on medication. Finding the right combination of medication to stabilize a person with bipolar disorder can be a challenge. Some people with manic depression are able to achieve balance with the help of mood-stabilizer medications. Others need an antidepressant medication as well. Too much antidepressant medication can cause a manic or hypomanic episode. Some people with bipolar disorder may need additional medications to manage anxiety or help them sleep. In a hospital setting, a psychiatrist can adjust the medication and monitor the patient’s progress.

Hospitalization can be difficult for the bipolar patient to accept. Being hospitalized in a psychiatric hospital carries a heavy stigma. It may be helpful to view the hospital as a temporary safety net for the person with manic depression. It is not uncommon for someone with bipolar disorder to have to be hospitalized at one time or another during the course of treatment. If you are hospitalized for bipolar disorder, remember that you do not need to tell everyone about your hospitalization. Protect your privacy and ask your friends and family to do the same.

If you are hospitalized, do your best to participate in the therapy that is offered. In a severe depression, you may not feel able to fully participate, but put forth an honest effort. This is a chance for you to heal in a protected environment among others who understand bipolar disorder. Many hospitals offer therapy that is not available to outpatients. Art therapy, group therapy, and psychodrama might be available while hospitalized, but would be difficult for someone outside the hospital to find those therapeutic activities in the community.

Some of those who have bipolar disorder tend to seek hospitalization any time they feel stressed. While hospitalization is an important safety net, it shouldn’t be used to avoid life. People with bipolar disorder need to be able to manage everyday stressors. This can be very difficult for someone with manic depression, especially during a manic or depressive episode. They should seek out the support of family and friends when they are feeling overwhelmed. People with bipolar disorder should also have a therapist and possibly other mental health professionals who can help them cope with stress and avoid unnecessary hospitalizations.

Next article: Life Of A Bipolar Manic Depressive Disorder