The strikingly beautiful actress Catherine Zeta-Jones has been in the headlines recently because of her famous husband actor Michael Douglass and his battle with throat cancer last year, plus she is a mother of two young children with a successful acting career herself. Her husband is doing well now, but the family has been through some stressful times and the stress has taken a toll on Catherine and she checked herself into a mental health facility for treatment of a disorder she is dealing with a condition called bipolar disorder type II. People Magazine reported that Zeta-Jones, 41, spent about five days in an unidentified facility.

Many people in Chicago can relate to dealing with stressful events that can lead to mental health issues such as depression, but it can easily go undiagnosed. Catherine knows the stressful year she has gone through lead to bipolar II. How many people know about balancing career, family issues, caring for children and stay well and balanced? Many can identify with this. Catherine recognized this disorder she was dealing with it and got treatment.

Her rep says in a statement. "She's feeling great and looking forward to starting work this week on her two upcoming films."

What is bipolar type II?
Bipolar is a mental illness where a person deals with “up and down” mood swings and erratic behavior. Bipolar II is a milder form of the disorder with up and down mood swings, but along with depression. It can be triggered by stress. It is usually treated with medication or therapy. Web MD reports about 2.5% of the U.S. population suffers from some form of bipolar disorder -- almost six million people. Web MD states “depressive episodes in bipolar II disorder are similar to "regular" clinical depression, with depressed mood, loss of pleasure, low energy and activity, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of suicide.”

People diagnosed with bipolar can be prescribed with mood-stabilizing drugs. For people interested in natural alternatives it is good to try to get to the root of the problem. For every disease and disorder there is a natural alternative. For help with mental illness such as bipolar it is important to look at diet, lifestyle and supplements to support the nervous system. Some health care professionals support natural remedies such as herbal supplements along with changing the diet. It is recommended to remove white sugar, sugary sodas, caffeine, artificial sweeteners (especially aspartame) and food coloring. Candida (yeast) can be a problem also.

Many people in Chicago have had success in dealing with bipolar, postpartum depression and other mental issues by working with their herbalist or other natural health care professionals.

Here is a sample herbal program:
B-Complex (for the nervous system and brain health)

Chinese Mood Elevator 
(18 Chinese herbs to help maintain and balance the nervous system and strengthen liver function)

Mineral Chi Tonic 
(to help balance the poles/meridians)

Gingko 
(for brain health)

It is always good to cleanse the colon and liver. The liver is considered the organ of emotions.

Herbalists see amazing health results when people follow the “Eat Right for Your Blood Type” diet along with supplements.

It is not recommend to stop prescribed medications without health professional’s guidance.

Contact your local herbalist for a personalized program. Certified Herbalist Marguerite Wright can be contacted at: momsherbs@gmail.com.

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