Co-occurring Disorders Treatment

Bipolar Disorder

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar Disorder is a mental illness characterized by episodes of elevated mood and energy levels (manic episodes) followed by episodes of extreme irritability and depression. It affects equal numbers of men and women, with typical onset between the ages of 15 and 25. While the cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, genetic factors are thought to play a role in its development.

Bipolar Disorder Symptoms

Though manic and depressive phases vary in severity and degree, most patients experience similar bipolar symptoms. Symptoms of the manic, or elevated phase, include:

intense mood swings
increased energy
racing thoughts
excessive talking
delusions of grandeur
excessive self-esteem
reckless behavior
lack of control (including binge eating, drug/alcohol abuse, and promiscuity)
short temper
poor judgment
little need for sleep
distraction
agitation
suicidal thoughts

Episodes of Mania Symptoms

Manic phases occur unpredictably and can last days or months. The swing to the depressed phase can happen quite quickly (though sometimes a mixed state, in which both manic and depressive symptoms are present at once, follows manic episodes.)

During the depressed phase, patients experience:

sadness
difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
feelings of worthlessness
hopelessness or guilt
low self-esteem
loss of enjoyment
eating problems, including either loss of appetite and weight loss or binge eating and weight gain
insomnia or excess sleep
isolation from friends and family
thoughts of suicide and death
depressive episodes

Individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder are often drawn to alcohol and drug abuse throughout both phases. Substance abuse can make bipolar symptoms worse and increase one’s risk of suicide.

Types of Bipolar Disorders

There are several types of bipolar disorder:

Bipolar I Disorder: Individuals have had at least one manic episode and experience periods of major bipolar depression. (In the past, Type 1 bipolar was called manic depression.)
Bipolar II Disorder: Individuals have never had full mania. Instead, they experience periods of high energy and impulsiveness that are not as extreme as mania. These periods, called hypomania, alternate with episodes of depression.
Clyclomythia: A mild form of bipolar disorder that involves less severe mood swings, Cyclomythia involves periods of hypomanic episodes, and mild depression.

People with bipolar disorder type II or cyclothymia may be mistakenly diagnosed as having depression.

Bipolar and Substance Use Disorder

Oftentimes, those struggling with personality disorders or anxiety disorders are prescribed medications to help manage symptoms. It is important to work closely with your prescriber to ensure the safe use of prescription drugs in order to avoid dependence or overdose.

Treating Bipolar Disorder

If you or a loved one needs help overcoming bipolar disorder, Caron is here for you. Please explore our support groups or contact us for more information. We offer various support options and treatments such as mood stabilizers, cognitive behavioral therapy, and talk therapy to address symptoms of depression.

Create a Treatment Plan with Caron Treatment Centers Today

At Caron Treatment Centers, our team of professionals wants to ensure the well-being and quality of life of the individuals we work with. We collaborate with individuals struggling with bipolar disorder to help them best manage their mood state and address warning signs or manic episodes. To create an effective treatment plan, contact Caron today.