Bipolar disorder is a treatable mental health condition marked by extreme changes in mood, thought, energy, and behavior. It is not a character flaw or a sign of personal weakness. Bipolar disorder was previously known as manic depression because mood of a person Living with Bipolar Disorder can alternate between the “poles” of mania (highs) and depression (lows). These changes in mood, or “mood swings,” can last for hours, days, weeks or months.
Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis:
When people experience symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time, they’re said to be experiencing a mixed state (or mixed mania). They have all of the negative feelings that come with depression, but they also feel agitated, restless and activated, or “wired.” Those individuals who have had a mixed state often describe it as the very worst part of bipolar disorder.
Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder:
Mania: The “Highs” of Bipolar Disorder:
Symptoms of mania include:
· heightened mood, exaggerated optimism and self-confidence;
· excessive irritability, aggressive behavior;
· decreased need for sleep without experiencing fatigue;
· grandiose thoughts, inflated sense of self-importance;
· racing speech, racing thoughts, flight of ideas;
· impulsiveness, poor judgment, easily distracted;
· reckless behavior; and
· in the most severe cases, delusions and hallucinations.
Depression: The “Lows” of Bipolar Disorder:
Symptoms of depression include:
· prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells;
· significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns;
· irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety;
· pessimism, indifference;
· loss of energy, persistent lethargy;
· feelings of guilt, worthlessness;
· inability to concentrate, indecisiveness;
· inability to take pleasure in former interests, social withdrawal;
· unexplained aches and pains; and
· recurring thoughts of death or suicide.
How to manage bipolar disorder?
No matter how down or out of control you feel, it’s important to remember that you’re not powerless while Living with Bipolar Disorder. Beyond the treatment you get from your doctor or therapist, there are many things you can do for yourself to reduce your symptoms and stay on track.
Living well with bipolar disorder requires certain adjustments. Like diabetics who take insulin or recovering alcoholics who avoid drinking, if you have bipolar disorder, it’s important to make healthy choices for yourself. Making these healthy choices will help you keep your symptoms under control, minimize mood episodes, and take control of your life.
Managing bipolar disorder starts with proper treatment, including medication and therapy. But there is so much more you can do to help yourself on a day-to-day basis. These tips can help you influence the course of your illness, enabling you to take greater control over your symptoms, to stay well longer, and to quickly rebound from any mood episode or relapse.
What causes bipolar disorder?
The exact cause of bipolar disorder isn't fully understood. A combination of factors can make someone more likely to develop the condition. These include physical, environmental and social factors (including mental stress).
Genetics:
In 4 out of 5 people with bipolar disorder, genetics plays a strong role. If one parent has bipolar disorder, there is a 1 in 10 chance their child will also develop the condition. If both parents have bipolar disorder, the likelihood rises to 4 in 10. Medical research is working towards understanding how genes affect your chance of experiencing bipolar disorder.
Chemical imbalances:
Bipolar disorder can occur when your body struggles to produce and breakdown certain brain chemicals (neurotransmitters), such as adrenaline, dopamine, acetylcholine, serotonin and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), as well as certain hormones. Brain-imaging studies suggest that structural changes can be seen in the brains of people with bipolar disorder.
Triggers:
In some people vulnerable to bipolar disorder, a stressful circumstance or experience can trigger an episode of mania or depression. This may include:
· childhood physical, sexual or emotional abuse
· family conflict
· or other major life-altering events.
· Misuse of certain substances such as recreational drugs are also linked to bipolar disorder.
What are coping skills for bipolar disorder?
Coping skills for bipolar disorder are techniques and strategies designed to help individuals manage and navigate the emotional ups and downs associated with bipolar disorder.
Key points about bipolar coping skills include:
· They are used by individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder and are working to manage their symptoms.
· They can be employed in various scenarios, such as during a mood episode, in anticipation of a potential trigger, or as part of an ongoing daily routine.
· Coping skills are often most effective when used alongside medication and professional therapeutic interventions.
· Different skills may be more suitable for manic phases versus depressive phases.
· Understanding and applying coping skills is vital for those living with bipolar disorder. These strategies not only offer relief during challenging episodes but also enable individuals to lead a stable and productive life.
Coping Strategies for Bipolar Disorder:
While professional treatment from Depression Treatment Centers is absolutely essential, many individuals find relief in coping strategies they can implement in their day-to-day lives. Here are several strategies to help navigate the complexities of bipolar disorder:
Establishing a Routine:
Maintaining a daily routine can provide individuals with structure and stability, which helps reduce stress. Setting consistent times for waking up, eating, and exercising can regulate moods and minimize potential episode triggers.
Sleep Hygiene:
Sleep disturbances are common in bipolar disorder, especially during manic episodes. Developing good sleep hygiene, such as going to bed at the same time each night, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a calming bedtime routine, can make a difference in managing mood fluctuations.
Stress Management:
Learning to manage stress through mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga can help reduce mood swings. Regular mindfulness exercises induce relaxation and increase one’s awareness of their emotional and physical sensations. This allows for early intervention when moods shift.
Recognizing Early Warning Signs:
Bipolar episodes don’t occur suddenly. They often develop over time, and being aware of early warning signs, such as changes in sleep patterns, increased irritability, or racing thoughts, can help individuals take steps to manage their mood.
Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder:
Managing bipolar disorder usually involves a combination of medications and therapy. Finding the right balance may take time, but with effort, individuals can achieve greater control over their symptoms.
Medications:
Medications are the cornerstone of bipolar disorder treatment. Doctors often prescribe a combination of mood stabilizers, anti psychotics, and antidepressants. Mood stabilizers such as lithium are used to control manic episodes, while antipsychotics can help manage both mania and depression.
In some cases, antidepressants are also prescribed, though they must be carefully monitored to avoid triggering manic episodes.
Psychotherapy:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier ones. This is especially useful during depressive episodes.
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) stabilizes daily routines, which reduces the likelihood of intense mood swings.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Lifestyle modifications play a critical role in managing bipolar disorder. Regular exercise helps to stabilize unpleasant symptoms, especially when it comes to depressive episodes. A balanced diet can also help regulate emotions while avoiding caffeine, alcohol, or illicit substances can prevent mood destabilization.
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but with the right strategies, individuals can manage the condition. Combining medications, therapy, and a solid routine fosters much better emotional resilience. Understanding bipolar disorder, recognizing personal triggers, and following a treatment plan are key elements of successful management.
If you’re Living with Bipolar Disorder and you’d like to see how therapy can assist you in managing your condition, reach out to Raelin Bright Wellness and schedule an appointment with our office.