The role of lithium clinics in the treatment of bipolar disorder.

Bipolar affective disorder is a serious and enduring mental health problem, which is associated with high mortality rates worldwide. Lithium is a first-rank treatment for this disorder but with its narrow therapeutic range and associated risks of toxicity, careful monitoring of its use is mandatory. Lithium clinics ensure that patients using this therapy have access to appropriate monitoring on a regular basis, providing immediate results for lithium level testing. Clinics also provide support and education, encouraging patients to take responsibility for monitoring the side-effects of their treatment.