How to Treat Bipolar Disorder in Males

Manic-depressive disorder is the name previously given to bipolar disorder, which basically is a problem in which the man suffers from dramatic mood swings. A man, however, is less likely than a woman to have these mood swings occur rapidly because he typically will suffer from the more traditional bipolar I disorder rather than bipolar II. He may suffer depression and be distraught for days, followed by periods of feeling happy to the point of delirium. These extreme highs and lows may interfere with his daily life and cause problems with personal relationships. He may even be suicidal during his depressive phases.

Sometimes hospitalization is needed for a man who suffers greatly from this disorder. If he is feeling suicidal or homicidal, he may need to be hospitalized for evaluation and treatment by a psychiatrist who specializes in bipolar disorder. In the hospital, he can be monitored and evaluated for possible further treatment. The main goal, the Mayo Clinic states, is to treat the immediate problem.

Once any immediate threat to or by the man is mitigated, the next step, the Mayo Clinic reports, is to contain the symptoms of bipolar disorder. For this reason, even before he goes into counseling, his psychiatrist or physician may prescribe medications to balance his moods. Generally, he will start with a mood stabilizer such as lithium and anticonvulsants such as divalproex, asenapine and valproic acid. There are a number of other medications, too, that may be prescribed for the man suffering from bipolar disorder. These medications are monitored by a psychiatrist for effectiveness and therapeutic effects which are associated with this disorder. If the depression is too great, the psychiatrist may prescribe antidepressants such as fluoxetine and venlafaxine. Antipsychotics such as risperidone and quetiapine may be used as well as benzodiazepines such as diazepam and alprazolam if the man has anxiety symptoms.

After the man's chemical imbalances are corrected with medications, he then may be treated with psychotherapy. This is an individual based psychological treatment that involves a psychologist or psychiatrist who will help him focus upon and work to solve his emotional problems. The bipolar sufferer will be encouraged to talk about his feelings, as well as to discuss his childhood and any trauma or other problems that may help to spur his disorder. In order to cope with his bipolar disorder, the man may need to remain in counseling and continue to take medications for the rest of his life.