Bipolar Disorder: Getting Help in the UK

The NHS says the main symptom is extreme changes in mood: high moods (mania, or milder hypomania) and low moods (depression), usually lasting days or weeks at a time, with stable periods in between that can last weeks, months or years. Source: NHS: bipolar disorder.

The NHS advises seeing a GP if you have extreme mood changes that last a long time or affect your everyday life, or if you have a diagnosis and treatment is not helping. If you are worried about someone else, encourage them to speak to their GP.

If a GP thinks you may have bipolar disorder, they will refer you to a psychiatrist, who will ask about your moods, behaviour, health and family history. The NHS says diagnosis can take time because symptoms are similar to other conditions. Source: NHS. See what psychiatrists do.

The NHS says bipolar disorder cannot be cured, but treatments can help manage it. A mental health specialist works with you on a treatment plan, which may include medicines to help stabilise your mood and talking therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It warns not to stop taking bipolar medicine unless a doctor tells you to, even if you feel better. Source: NHS: bipolar disorder.

A private therapist can work alongside your NHS care, not instead of it. Tell them about your diagnosis and treatment plan at the start, and ask about their experience.

Whoever you choose, check their register and ask about fees, session length and how you will review progress together. See questions to ask before you book and how much therapy costs. On Therapist Circle, each practitioner's registration is checked when they join, and their profile shows the register and number so you can check it yourself.

The NHS suggests learning your triggers (such as stress, lack of sleep or being too busy) and trying to keep a regular routine, get plenty of sleep, eat well, exercise regularly and manage stress. It suggests avoiding recreational drugs, smoking, too much alcohol or caffeine, and shift work or very long hours if you can. Source: NHS.

The NHS points to charities such as Bipolar UK, Mind and Rethink Mental Illness for information, support groups and help for family and carers. It notes that comments in forums are often personal experience and should not be taken as medical advice.