Bi-polar disorder?

Question

If a person is bi-polar and doesn't have insurance or cannot afford treatment, is there any alternative treatments to relieve the symptoms, such as depression?

Answer 1

I made an appointment with my local mental health for the same problem. I do not have a job right now or insurance. They treated me and charged me based on my income. My appt was only 9.00. They chose my meds from the Walmart 4.00 list. Lots of meds are only 4.00 at Walmart. Take the first step you will be suprised how easy it is. Good Luck.

Answer 2

There are so many theories as to what causes Bi-polar disorder. There are even things that have shown it has a genetic basis amongst certain groups of people. If he truly has bi-polar disorder, it is not catchy like a cold however. There could have been an event that triggered the onset of this and it just was something inevitable. The most important thing, is that you and your family are there for him. Bi-polar disorder can be a horrible mental illness to deal with. There are many medications that can help, and he needs to see a psychiatrist and a therapist really to get the best results for therapy. Medication works on an individual basis, and some people need what is called an "integrative" approach with different medicines and therapy. Love him no matter what and be there for him. If it gets too stressful for you/and your family, finding someone to talk to even within the community is always a good idea. Calling around to see if their are support groups can help your father and you both. You might also want to consider getting another opinion for further evaluation if at any time you feel it is necessary or if you do not agree with the doctor's decision. Peace

Answer 3

You might want to check into amino acids like L-Tryptophan and L-Tyrosine. Also 5-HTP. And take a good muti-viatmin and a B-complex vitamin.
The amino acids and 5-HTP are precursors to seretonin...a very important neurotransmitter that effects mood. Depressed people often have very low levels. Anti-depressant medications work by blocking the re-uptake of seretonin thus making more available but there's no magic cure to increase it, like a seretonin pill or something.
Certain foods help too. I believe almonds are supposed to be very good. I would suggest all of the above and a regular exercise routine. Check back with me in 4 weeks;-)

Answer 4

True bipolar disorder is such a chemical thing that I don't believe you can manage it with lifestyle or alternative treatments ... I haven't heard of any directly, for whatever that's worth. This person (or people who love him/her) needs to find some way to receive counseling and medication.

Answer 5

I've heard exercise is an excellent treatment for depression. This comes from a very educated friend of mine who is also bi-polar.

Answer 6

Most areas have mental health facilities that will see people who are uninsured. Check your area for facilities and start making calls.

If you truly are bi-polar, medication will be what you need. It is caused by faulty neurotransmission.

Good luck.

Answer 7

you could try st. johns wort. but be aware that it can reduce the effectiveness of birth control. eat a balanced diet, stick to a regular sleeping schedule and try to get about 8 hours a night, and exercise. you could also try taking a multivitamin. all the things that overall are good things for most people to do.

Answer 8

Montel Williams advertises a thing called prescription assistance. You might try that. Good luck.

Answer 9

Most people who have bipolar disorder have been known to have low levels of vitamin b12, vitamin b6, and iron. My suggestion would be to try a multi-vitamin multi-mineral supplement and good old fashioned exercise to release the endorphins in the brain.

Answer 10

Exercise!