Based on current theories about the causes of bipolar disorder, there is no way to prevent its onset. The best prevention strategy is for people who have already experienced an episode of mania or depression to stay on medication to avoid recurrence. The better you become at identifying the symptoms of bipolar disorder, the faster you can get help to prevent a full-blown episode.
Most people know certain feelings that indicate when a mood change is developing. Small changes in mood, sleep, energy, sexual interest, concentration, motivation, thoughts of doom and even changes in hygiene and dress may be early signs of an episode. If a person has had two or three episodes, he or she should remain on medication for the rest of his or her life. A person also may receive a recommendation for lifetime medication if he has had just one or two severe episodes that were considered life threatening or required a significant period of hospitalization.
People who have family members with the disease should be alert to the possibility that they could develop the disorder. They should monitor themselves for symptoms of mania or depression.
Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 4 May 2006
