On average, how often do people with bipolar disorder see psychologists/therapists?
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In the beginning, it could be as often as every week. That is because their medication(s) need to be monitored--to make sure that they are helping, and make sure that the brand and dose are right. (Medications are virtually always indicated for bipolar disorder).
Once the person is stable, they usually don't need to go more than once every three months for medication refills--unless they have any problem with the medication, or other problems.
Some people do go to therapy/counseling more often--if they, and/or their therapist think that it will be beneficial to their well-being. It really depends a lot upon the individual patient.
I have had life-long anxiety and depression problems. At one time, I did see a therapist every week (and the psychiatrist for meds once every three months). Finally, they found that no particular event brought these disorders out in me--that they were inherited--that a chemical imbalance was inherited, I should say. Now, I go only once every three months, and see both the therapist and the psychiatrist.
I took responsibility for my psychological well-being at 16.
You can't heal by talking about your problems.
Actually, there are no real problems in the present moment. Here & now is the only place healing happens.
Well, some do although, most don't. They go to group therapy with people who are also bipolar. I on the other hand do neither and hope to God, people won't figure out why you don't want to see me mad. =]
My wife goes once a month, but it is getting expensive. She is now seeing her general practitioner for the dispencing of her Lithium.
Unfortunately I don't think people see Dr's until its too late. Most of the time the pt. doesn't see anything wrong with themselves until they hurt themselves or someone else. Also if they don't have supportive family or friends who can just come out and say, " You need professional help." Some times family or friends just look the other way and just shrug it off. Saying thinks like Oh that's just the way they are. or they just get like that every now and then or they have a short fuse. People just have to come out and not feel ashamed and just help who ever it is that needs help. They may not want it or admit that they or some else has a problem.
Since I see mine once a month it is expensive but if you are under 19 you can get a medical card to pay for it. or if your illness is bad enough your age doesnt matter. if you are pregnant or have a child you can get a card for you and your child.
celeena
p.s.
i dont find talking to someone about my problems that have to listen to me because they are paid too very helpful.
I used to see a therapist once a month for 4 years.
Then I decided that it was enough. I don't go anymore, but I do see a psychiatrist every 3 months.
It was pretty much a waste of time... although it did help me go back to college. Other than that-- it was luggage.
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