Bipolar Disorders

Bipolar Disorder (BD) is a chronic mental health disorder that has a worldwide prevalence rate between 1.5 and 5.0%. BD carries one of the highest disease burdens. The vast majority of individuals with BD have an additional psychiatric comorbid condition, an array of comorbid medical conditions, an increased rate of unemployment and incarceration, decreased social connections, and shorter life expectancy, whether due to suicide, accidents, or sequela from psychiatric and medical conditions. The underlying neurobiological underpinnings are still relatively unknown, although a significant genetic component exists. Historical treatments have centered on the administration of psychotropic medications, which have helped manage symptoms, but may adversely contribute to medical comorbidities. Just as lifestyle medicine has been successful in improving other chronic health conditions, we will review the pertinent literature and encourage that lifestyle interventions should begin at the onset of the treatment of BD in conjunction with psychotropic medications.