Q: How do you know if it’s bipolar disorder?
A: Observe from behavioral basis, for example, if normally a person is calm and rational, then suddenly becomes flamboyantly dressed, talkative, irritable, or from someone who is sociable and active, becomes depressed, doesn’t want to get out of bed, can lie staring at the ceiling for hours, is socially withdrawn, frequently misses work, neglects personal care, or is sick without a known cause, assume illness first and take them to see a doctor. Don’t think it’s normal.
Q: How can bipolar disorder be treated?
A: The doctor will diagnose and prescribe medication. Generally, taking medication for about 2 weeks will help improve symptoms significantly. Even if symptoms improve, you can’t just stop taking the medication. Continuous treatment for 2 – 5 years is necessary. But if treated correctly and comprehensively, this disease can be cured.
Q: How should relatives care?
Relatives should prepare themselves and their families to be strong, or what’s called mental vaccination, by taking care of having good mental health, studying information, learning to take care of each other, and not hesitating to consult experts because this disease needs to be treated with medication and psychotherapy together. Patients will be able to return to normal life, just that society must give them a chance.
For those interested or wondering about psychiatry, Bangkok Hospital has a mental health center ready to provide modern, comprehensive mental health and psychiatric care, complemented by a professional medical team that closely supervises every step of the treatment, comfortable and tranquil accommodations, outdoor activities, and a variety of program activities suitable for various mental conditions including music therapy, art therapy, group, and individual psychotherapy, all of which strengthen the patients’ and their relatives’ mental health enabling them to return to normal life.
Dr. Bert’s final thoughts emphasize three key points:
1. Bipolar is an illness, not a character flaw
2. Bipolar can be treated
3. After treatment, one can become a good, competent person and return to live happily in society
