Bipolar disorder services

Not always. NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT) accepts self-referrals for common issues like anxiety and depression — no GP visit needed. For specialist NHS care (CMHT, psychiatry) you usually do need a GP referral. Private therapists and psychiatrists accept patients directly.

NHS support is free but waiting lists for talking therapies and specialist services can be long, and session counts are often capped. Private support typically starts within days or weeks, lets you choose your therapist, and isn't limited by NHS commissioning rules — but you pay per session.

It depends on what you're looking for: counsellors and psychotherapists help with talking-based support; clinical psychologists handle complex or trauma-related work; psychiatrists are medical doctors who can prescribe medication. Check each provider's regulator (BACP, UKCP, BPS, GMC) on their profile.

Yes — UK therapists are bound by their regulator's ethics framework, which requires confidentiality except in specific safeguarding situations (risk of serious harm to you or others). Your therapist will explain the limits at your first session.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999. For urgent mental health support: call NHS 111 and select option 2 for mental health, call Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7), or text SHOUT to 85258. This site is for finding routine support, not crisis care.

On the NHS, yes. Your GP refers you to a community mental health team (CMHT) where a psychiatrist can assess and diagnose you. You cannot self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies for bipolar disorder. Most private psychiatrists accept self-referrals.

Diagnosis is made by a psychiatrist based on a detailed assessment of your mood history, including episodes of mania or hypomania and depression. There is no single test for bipolar disorder. It can take time to reach a diagnosis, particularly if you first present during a depressive episode, as the symptoms can overlap with other conditions.

Mood stabilisers are the cornerstone of treatment. Lithium is the most established and is recommended by NICE as a first-line treatment. Other options include valproate (not suitable for women of childbearing age due to risks in pregnancy), lamotrigine (particularly for bipolar depression), and antipsychotics such as quetiapine or olanzapine. Your psychiatrist will work with you to find the right medication.

Yes, but therapy complements medication rather than replacing it. NICE recommends structured psychological interventions including CBT adapted for bipolar disorder, psychoeducation (learning about the condition and early warning signs), and family-focused therapy. These can help you manage your condition, recognise triggers, and maintain stability between episodes.

Bipolar I involves full manic episodes - periods of significantly elevated mood, energy, and activity that last at least a week and may require hospital admission. Bipolar II involves hypomanic episodes (less severe than full mania) and depressive episodes. Both are serious conditions that benefit from specialist treatment.

Initial diagnosis and treatment should involve a psychiatrist. Once your medication is stable and your condition is well managed, your care may be shared between your psychiatrist and GP. However, most people with bipolar disorder benefit from ongoing psychiatric review, particularly during medication changes or if symptoms return.