The ups and downs that are a part of living with bipolar disorder can feel overwhelming and discouraging. Yet you need to know you are not alone on this journey! Besides your personal support system, there are treatment options and coping techniques that can help ease the challenges of life with bipolar disorder. Finding the right treatment center can make all the difference and pave the way to you living your best life.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, more commonly known as manic-depressive disorder, is a mental health condition where a person may move between states of extreme emotional highs (the manic phase) and incredible lows (the depressive phase).
While the causes of bipolar disorder are not completely understood, researchers believe that genetics, brain structure, imbalances in neurotransmitters, and environmental events (or any combination of these) are all contributing factors.
*This is a simplified definition of a complex mental health condition and you should discuss this with your mental health professional if you would like more in-depth information or have questions.
Types and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
There are three main types of bipolar disorder. The mildest form is cyclothymic disorder in which hypomania and depression alternate numerous times over at least two years but the depression and mania do not become full-blown episodes. Hypomania is a lighter form of a manic episode and is not considered a full-blown manic phase. Bipolar II is a pattern of depressive and hypomanic phases where full-blown manic episodes do not take place but the depressive episodes are more severe. Bipolar I is when the person experiences at least one manic episode and one or multiple hypomanic and depressive episodes. With Bipolar I, the mood patterns are severe, requiring hospitalization and often lasting at least a week or longer. Depressive episodes last at least two weeks.
The symptoms of a manic episode include elevated moods, high self-esteem, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, extreme energy, rapid speech, and decreased sleep needs. Sometimes, a person in a manic state may spend large sums of money, take drugs or increase drinking alcohol, drive at high speeds, increase sexual activity, and many other forms of risky, thrill-seeking behavior. On the other hand, the symptoms of a depressive state, normally include feelings of deep sadness, worthlessness, tiredness, guilt, lack of interest in life, trouble concentrating, difficulty sleeping, and suicidal ideation.
Bipolar Disorder Treatments
Every person is unique, so the best treatment for bipolar disorder is a personalized treatment plan based on specific needs. Medication is often the foundation of bipolar disorder treatment, including mood stabilizers, antidepressants, antipsychotics, or benzodiazepines. The goal of most medications is to reduce the number and severity of mood swings between mania/hypomania and depression.
Therapy is a proven part of effective bipolar disorder treatment. Various types of therapy can help the person and their loved ones manage the various phases, as well as the challenges that each one brings. From learning new neural pathways to understanding behavioral responses, therapy teaches coping mechanisms for life with bipolar disorder. Besides individual therapy, many treatment centers also provide family therapy, group therapy, and bipolar support groups, providing a network of others facing similar challenges.
In certain situations, most often with Bipolar I, inpatient hospitalization, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), or intensive outpatient program treatment (IOP) may be necessary to stabilize the individual.
Best Treatment Center for Bipolar Disorder Near Me
For those residing in Mississippi, Psycamore is your compassionate care center for bipolar disorder treatment. Our experienced bipolar clinicians and therapists in Mississippi provide expert treatment that encompasses current best practices and personalized care. Contact us today if you or a loved one is in need!
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