Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes dramatic shifts in a person’s mood, energy, and ability to think clearly. People with Bipolar experience high and low moods known as mania and depression, which differ from the typical ups and downs most people experience. Symptoms and their severity can vary based on which of the three types of Bipolar you have. Severe bipolar episodes of mania or depression may include psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions. In people with Bipolar, moods can rapidly become more irritable, behavior more unpredictable, and judgment more impaired. During periods of mania, people frequently behave impulsively, make reckless decisions, and take unusual risks. If left untreated, bipolar disorder usually worsens. However, with good treatment, which includes psychotherapy, medications, and a healthy lifestyle, someone with Bipolar disorder may live well.

Episodes of mania and hypomania cause symptoms such as:

• Talking rapidly
• Having nonstop energy
• Needing little to no sleep
• Experiencing racing thoughts
• Feeling self-important
• Having delusions and/or hallucinations (during full-blown manic episodes)
• Engaging in risky behaviors (such as overspending or reckless drinking)
• The symptoms that occur during a depressive episode include:
• Feeling sad and hopeless
• Having no interest in favorite activities
• Losing or gaining weight (along with changes in your eating habits)
• Oversleeping or having trouble sleeping
• Feeling restless and irritable
• Having little to no energy
• Having difficulty concentrating or remembering things
• Thinking about suicide

How is Bipolar disorder treated?

Medication management is an essential part of treatment for bipolar disorder. You can stabilize your mood swings and put them into remission if you stick with your prescribed medication regimen.

Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness team often recommends long-acting injectable antipsychotic medications, making it easier to maintain a stable mood if you have problems taking your medications regularly as prescribed. Your provider may also recommend therapy to help manage the emotional and behavioral challenges facing many people with bipolar disorder. Therapy can help you manage stress and anger and build social interaction skills.

You can successfully manage bipolar disorder and achieve a fulfilling life with consistent treatment. Don’t wait to call Gladstreams Mental Health & Wellness today, or you can request an appointment online.