Psycho-Babble Alternative Thread 916122

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Bipolar II/Insomnia

Posted by heimholtz on September 8, 2009, at 17:40:31

Is there a list of natural mood stabilizers? I have bipolar II with extreme bouts of insomnia. I've tried almost every medication out there. Even omega-3 gave me insomnia. I take medication to get me to sleep right now, but I think the cycling has kicked up a notch. I think if I address the underlying issue (bipolar II) the insomnia may get better.

Re: Bipolar II/Insomnia

Posted by Aether on September 29, 2009, at 9:04:45

In reply to Bipolar II/Insomnia, posted by heimholtz on September 8, 2009, at 17:40:31

There is a bunch of nutrient supplements than have some rudimentary early evidence for helping...One is omega-3 (fish oil), and general amino acids, minerals and vitamins are thought to help. I did once have a really good source on all the research, but cant find it now. Also bright light therapy can help. Theres actually a range of promising options mostly connected to nutrients. Theres also a product on the market which is a multi-nutrient designed for bipolar. Of course the advantage of all those, is there are no drug interactions.

For sleep, melatonin is a good option IMO. Still better to clear your mind and control your mind most often.

For the mental aspects dialectic therapy (DBT) has some effectiveness, and also mindfulness is growing in popularity as an alternative therapy for bipolar amongst other things. Those two are basically two ancient spiritual techniques- grounding and meditation. It involves being aware of physical details, sensations and your enviroment, checking all emotions with logical facts, centring yourself in doing, or "being" rather than thinking.

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