How does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy work for Bipolar Disorder?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that teaches people specific cognitive and behavioral skills to help them control and even prevent serious mood swings. CBT involves a structured systematic approach in which clients are taught specific skills and strategies to address overly positive or negative moods that may escalate into episodes of depression or mania. For example, clients in a hypomanic or manic state typically underestimate the risks and negative consequences of their actions. The therapist works collaboratively to help the client challenge overly positive thoughts (“Everything will turn out fine” “I feel lucky”; “I can’t go wrong”) and evaluate possible negative outcomes and to reduce impulsive behaviors with a high risk of harmful consequences. The therapist also helps clients recognize and address environmental stressors (major life changes, relationship problems, over-stimulating conflictual situations, etc) that may exacerbate their mood swings.
