Is Online Bipolar Disorder Treatment A Good Option For You?
If you're looking for bipolar disorder treatment, you might wonder whether an online option is good for you. The needs of patients vary, especially based on how far they might be into the diagnostic and treatment processes. You might want to consider online bipolar disorder treatment if you're a good match based on the following three criteria.
Physical Exam
Working with a professional online is still possible if you need a physical exam. If you haven't had an exam, then you're likely at or close to the start of the diagnostic process. An online professional will want you to schedule an in-person exam, and you can usually do this through your general practitioner. The critical thing is to rule out other possible issues that might create symptoms similar to those of bipolar disorder.
If you've had an exam, you'll want to have the reports ready to go. Folks who don't have the paperwork with them may need to talk with the doctor who performed the exam and authorize a release to the online bipolar disorder treatment provider.
Risk of Hospitalization
Online treatment isn't right for everybody. Specifically, individuals who may require hospitalization should consider doing bipolar disorder treatment in person at least until their doctor is sure they don't have a hospitalization risk.
One of the most common risks is suicidal thoughts. If a person is experiencing any form of suicidal ideation, there is a risk of hospitalization. They may require in-person treatment until the situation stabilizes.
Similarly, some individuals may have co-morbid substance use disorders. This is common in self-medicating scenarios where people with undiagnosed psychiatric concerns cope with moods by drinking alcohol or using drugs.
Finally, some people may be taking medications that could conflict with the one for bipolar disorder treatment. If there is a hospitalization risk due to drug interaction, it's wise to consider in-person care until the medication regimen is sorted out.
Treatment Availability
A notable group of people who may benefit significantly is individuals who live in places where treatment availability is limited or non-existent. If you live in a remote rural area, for example, online bipolar disorder treatment may be the only way to achieve consistent session scheduling. Similar issues may happen in underserved urban areas, too.
People with social or anxiety disorders may also struggle with traveling to a therapist's office. These individuals often benefit from the availability of online treatment. The same is true for folks who have mobility issues.
For more information, contact a local company like F. Matthew Johnson, MD, PLLC.
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