Each person with bipolar disorder has a slightly different mood pattern. Bipolar disorder types 1 and 2 affect about 2% of the global population, and less intense forms of the disorder affect another 2%. Those who stay engaged with their treatment have a good chance of improvement.

If you have bipolar disorder, it’s important to have an outpatient therapist and a psychiatrist to help you navigate your path to wellness. This might involve learning about your mood episodes, building a strong support system, finding the right medication, and learning positive coping skills. This is why personalized treatments focused on the client’s lived experiences are the most effective.

People with bipolar disorder may need several different types of treatment during their lifetime. This article will outline eight types of treatment and coping skills that are helpful for many.

What types of treatment are most supportive for people with bipolar disorder?

Outpatient therapy and medication management are critical treatments that help people with bipolar disorder stay in good mental health. But sometimes they might need more support than an outpatient therapist can provide, for instance, during a manic episode or a severe depressive episode. In these cases, a higher level of care may be more appropriate.

Structured outpatient programs and Residential Treatment Centers (RTCs) provide a bit more support than outpatient therapy. They usually combine several treatments with peer support groups, family therapy sessions and medication management. The best type of therapy for each client will depend on their personality and what they’re currently dealing with. Individual treatment centers and therapists each have different treatment philosophies. It’s important to learn how they support clients with bipolar disorder before starting a program.

8 supportive types of treatment and coping skills for bipolar disorder

At Lightfully, we know that people with bipolar disorder receive the best support when they actively take part in planning their own treatment. In our process-based treatment (PBT) model, we handpick several treatments for each client. We also incorporate their goals with their individual treatment plan.

Keep reading to learn about higher levels of care and specific coping skills that are helpful for people with bipolar disorder.

Lightfully’s supportive treatments for people with bipolar disorder

Immersive treatment environments can provide a lot of support during critical times — for example, when clients are learning to manage intense mood episodes, navigating life challenges or adjusting to new medications. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) take place during the day. Going home at night helps clients feel comfortable and reduces the total cost of the program. For clients who need nursing support overnight, Residential Treatment Centers (RTCs) are available.

The following types of treatment are helpful for many people with bipolar disorder:

• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) — At Lightfully, clients in PHP attend six hours of treatment, five days each week. This program is best for clients who need a lot of support but can function well enough to go home at night and commute to treatment.
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) — IOP still provides a high level of support and can be a good option for clients transitioning out of or returning to treatment. Our IOP includes three to six hours of treatment per day.
• Residential Treatment — Residential Treatment is the most immersive program we offer. Clients stay in a cozy and beautifully furnished home with a small group of peers. They do several group treatments together each day. During downtime, they have good conversations, play games or relax.

Effective coping skills for people with bipolar disorder

We provide support in four main areas for a holistic approach to mental wellness. We help our clients learn to manage their thoughts, emotions, behaviors and relationships. Mindfulness practices build awareness and strengthen skills in all four areas.

The following types of coping skills can help you manage your bipolar disorder:

• Emotion regulation — We teach proven techniques that can help you stay grounded and process your emotions effectively. Once you’ve mastered some emotion regulation skills, mood episodes can be less distressing and disruptive.
• Thought awareness and management — Thoughts and emotions can work together to maintain peace of mind or send you spiraling. Clarifying your values and modifying negative core beliefs helps you gain some control.
• Behavior modification — Behaviors can also contribute to negative patterns that make mood episodes feel worse. Treatment is a great place to explore alternative ways to respond to your thoughts and feelings.
• Relationship skills — Supportive relationships are key for everyone’s mental wellness. Identify what you need in relationships, how you can show up for others, and what boundaries will help you keep things on the right track.
• Mindfulness — Self-awareness and intentional living anchor your new skills in each of these areas. Practicing mindfulness helps you resist extremes and build emotional resilience.

Get support for your bipolar disorder at Lightfully

Bipolar disorder can’t be cured, but with the right treatment, you can get some relief. The best program for you will be driven by your unique symptoms, your goals and your progress. You’re not alone on your journey to mental wellness. Your therapist, your peers, your family and your friends will all provide different kinds of support.

Do you have questions about navigating higher levels of treatment? Please contact us. Let’s see if we can help!