Bipolar Q & A

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What is bipolar disorder?

 

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that was previously called manic-depressive illness. It causes unusual shifts in your mood, concentration, and energy levels, making it difficult to carry out daily tasks. You might feel overjoyed one minute (manic) and extremely depressed the next. Treatment can reduce troublesome symptoms and improve your mood.

 

What are the different types of bipolar disorder?

 

The various types of bipolar disorder include:

 

Bipolar I disorder

 

Bipolar I disorder is characterized by manic episodes lasting for at least seven days or manic symptoms that are severe. 

 

Bipolar II disorder

 

Bipolar II disorder is a pattern of depression and hypomanic symptoms that is less severe than manic episodes. 

 

Cyclothymic disorder

 

Cyclothymia consists of recurring hypomanic and depressive symptoms that don’t last long enough or aren’t intense enough to be classified as hypomanic or depressive episodes. 

 

If you experience symptoms of bipolar disorder that don’t match one of the three categories above, you may have another form of bipolar disorder or a related condition. 

 

Which symptoms can bipolar disorder cause?

 

Bipolar disorder can cause the following symptoms:

• Mood swings

• Depression cycled with excitability

• Impulsive decision making

• Problems at school, work, or in relationships

• Fatigue or high energy

• Sleeping more or less often than usual 

• Irritability

• Racing thoughts

• Feeling hopeless or worthless

• Loss of interest in favorite activities

• Anxiety

• Substance abuse 

• Thoughts of suicide 

If constant or extreme mood swings negatively affect you, see a mental health provider for an evaluation.

 

How does my specialist diagnose bipolar disorder?

 

Diagnosing bipolar disorder involves a psychiatric evaluation consisting of questions about your thoughts, mood, emotions, lifestyle habits, and more. Your specialist discusses your mental health history, behaviors, symptoms, and desired outcome. They then tailor a treatment that’s best suited to your unique situation. 

 

How is bipolar disorder treated?

 

Treating bipolar disorder may include one or more of the following:

 

Medication management

 

Taking medications can stabilize your mood and eliminate bothersome symptoms. Your mental health provider helps you effectively manage bipolar medications. 

 

Counseling

 

Undergoing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), family-focused therapy, or other forms of therapy helps you learn ways to better cope with bipolar disorder. 

 

Lifestyle changes

 

Altering your lifestyle habits can reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. It’s important to minimize stress, exercise regularly, eat healthy foods, get plenty of sleep, and maintain a strong social support network. 

 

Schedule a bipolar evaluation at Restoring Foundations Psychiatric Counseling Center by phone or online today.