Bipolar Disorder
Ketamine as a Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
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Life is full of ups and downs. We all have them. But it's different if you struggle with bipolar disorder. The ups and downs are far more intense and extreme.
If you're depressed, you may find yourself not wanting to get out of bed in the morning. You could feel hopeless and worthless most of the time. Then, all of a sudden, you feel fantastic - as if you can do anything. These intense moods can last for days to months.
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Your doctor has diagnosed you with bipolar disorder. So what exactly is bipolar disorder and how is it treated?
Symptoms of Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that involves extreme mood swings, with emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
During a depressive episode, you may feel sad and unmotivated. It's common to lose interest in activities you once enjoyed. You might even have difficulty making decisions or remembering things. You could lack energy, have difficulty concentrating, and feel constantly overwhelmed.
During a manic episode, on the other hand, you might feel euphoric. You could have racing thoughts and feel full of energy, which can sometimes lead to risky behaviour. For example, during a manic episode, you might start shopping and spend money on things you don’t need or can’t afford.
There are a few types of bipolar disorder. Bipolar I involves severe mood swings from mania to depression. Bipolar II involves milder episodes of hypomania alternating with periods of severe depression. Cyclothymic disorder is a milder form, with less severe mood swings.
Current Treatments for Bipolar Disorder
Treatment options for bipolar disorder include mood stabilizers, such as lithium, as well as antipsychotics and anticonvulsant medications.
Some people find a good combination of medication and lifestyle changes that help manage their symptoms, so that they can lead productive and fulfilling lives. For others, medications are not effective.
Studies have shown that the longer you live with untreated bipolar disorder, the harder it becomes to find a treatment. Therefore it's essential to try to find a treatment as soon as possible.
Nevertheless, even if the treatments you have tried in the past haven't worked for you, there is still hope if you suffer from bipolar disorder.
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That's where IV ketamine infusions come in.
Ketamine May Be the Most Effective Treatment for Bipolar Depression
IV ketamine can rapidly and effectively improve the symptoms of bipolar depression.
Studies have shown that ketamine can provide relief even when other treatments have failed. At Ketamine Health, 80% of our patients, including those with bipolar disorder, have seen a reduction in depression symptoms with ketamine infusions and therapy.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and you have tried other treatments without success, it might be time to consider ketamine. Call us at (416) 343-0074 or contact us today to see if you are a candidate for ketamine therapy.