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Treatment needs of bipolar individuals are often unfulfilled

By Staff Writer

Many people worldwide who suffer from bipolar disorder do not receive proper treatment for their conditions and often experience other mood or behavioral syndromes, according to a report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

Less than half of bipolar individuals who live in underdeveloped countries have received treatment or access to care, the report notes.

Researchers who conducted a survey of people living with the disorder suggested that a general lack of understanding among healthcare providers prevents those who have the illness from improving their quality of life.

The investigators found that out of more than 60,000 residents of 11 countries, about 2.4 percent were bipolar. Furthermore, about 75 percent of the bipolar participants suffered from at least one additional mental illness, the most common being anxiety.

Depressive bipolar symptoms were more common than manic episodes, according to results.

If left untreated, symptoms of bipolar disorder may become more frequent and severe as a person ages.

Young adults who have mood or behavior disorders can struggle academically and experience difficulty interacting with their peers. Boarding schools for teens can offer specialized treatment for those who suffer from role impairment and other mental health problems.

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