Alternative Medicinces / Herbal Remedies For Bipolar Disorder?
ive read that fish oil, dif minerals/metals…things like that can greatly improve the life of someone with bipolar…because of the imbalance they have…it can help it… anythoughts?
ive read that fish oil, dif minerals/metals…things like that can greatly improve the life of someone with bipolar…because of the imbalance they have…it can help it… anythoughts?
From what Pdoc and others professionals have told me, it seems those bits and peices, like fish oil and st johns wort, either dont really make a difference or can actually have a negative effect.
I’ve successfully been off meds now, since June 2006. I have small swings, not very often tho, but I’m able to control them. They normally happen because I’ve had too much coffee, stayed up too late etc, and being a mother I need to be responsible etc, so I’m quick to get on top of things. I will take meds if I need to, I just prefer not too, and have MANY valid reasons. Anyway, how I’ve made it so far:
* Routine, routine, routine. I have a diary for times, acitvites, appointments, and countless lists.
* Exercise. I find that is essential for me, to find my ‘center’
* Diet. Sugary food, junk food is baaaaaad for my moods. It’s really amazing how much diet has an effect on me, so I aim for low gi foods, and small meals often. Also helped me with my weight loss, so double bonus!
* Coffeee… keep to a minimum. And not after 3pm ish.
* Sleep! At the appropriate times.
* And if I’m feeling stressed I dont put extra pressure on myself. I am kinder to myself now. I try to adopt a more of a attitude as in “My all, or my best at the time” rather than the frustrating and often dissapointing mantra “All or nothing!” I used to live by.
* Talking. Shrinks, psychologists, good friends, anyone! I made great strides since I started seeing a psychologist. Talking and setting goals, not letting things build up and validating my feelings, and just generally working thru the million issues I have, has worked wonders.
I think thats it…. it’s hard going med free as EVERYONE, almost, thinks it’s a bad idea, but I have a few professionals, and all my friends and family who support me, and are amazed how well I’m doing. I would never recommend someone to do it, as some people really do go off their nut, but just find some one that does understand, and is willing to help, and respect the fact that meds are not the only treatment for bipolar. Sometimes tho, and for some periods in life, they’re are needed.
I’ve just resigned myself that I have this problem, and I will fight it, but if I need help and strength (meds) I will take them.
Just be careful please, and this doesnt work for everyone.
Im not totally sure about those, but if they dont have any side effects i guess its worth a try.
one thing that can really help that people should do before concidering any kind of chemical treatment is therapy. sometimes just couseling can really help someone.
I don’t know about stopping mood swings, but if you are in a depressive phase you might try supplements which help with focus and energy. Go to a reputable health food store and ask for recommendations. However, if you choose to do that, be sure your doc knows – for both drug interaction issues and monitoring.
g oto a hippie stoe and they will have somethings. that or go to a chines herbs retailer. or hell just look up alternative medicines
bipolar is due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. specifically the serotonin. taking 5-htp or another serotonin replacement is similar to taking an antidepressant. as for the mania im not quite sure what would help with that.
Fish oil is suppose to improve your brain, but it wouldn’t do enough to help someone with bipolar, I’m sorry to say. The medications for mental illness vary greatly, but nothing works as well as these medications do. I do know that Eli Lilly is now working on something very different then all of the medications they have now, so there is hope.
There is scientific research that shows 3 things to be effective 1. fish oil (omega-3), 2. inositol, 3. folic acid.
Actually 4 as lithium is not a “drug” but a naturally occurring mineral salt like potassium.
Website below will explain all the research studies and evidence for you. Page has links to further pages – one each for fish oil, inositol and folic acid.
You have asked a good question as many people have bad side effects from the medication. Just today the State of Alaska got $15 million in compensation because the drug Zyprexa has been over-marketed to bipolar people and caused serious health problems such as diabetes. However, please be careful getting information off the Internet. Please look at evidence and proof and experience, not just “thoughts”.