Life is a rollercoaster ride full of highs and lows. Most of us experience days where we’re ready to take on the world, as well as times when it takes every ounce of strength just to get through the day. What impacts our emotional state can differ from one person to another, but for those with bipolar disorder, these fluctuations are far more extreme. Fortunately, there is hope for this condition. Our comprehensive treatment has helped many find relief and gain control over their lives again.
At Northeast Health Services, we are devoted to providing the best possible treatment for bipolar disorder. Our evidence-based therapies and lifestyle modifications combine to offer comprehensive mental health care that can bring stability, peace of mind, and contentment. Depending on each individual’s needs, our talented medical team may provide psychotherapy, prescribe medications, suggest healthy habits, recommend family therapy sessions, or implement other interventions as necessary within our exclusive program for treating bipolar disorder.
At Northeast Health Services, we provide a secure and comforting atmosphere for our clients to delve into their bipolar disorder and its sources. This approach enables individuals of all ages to gain increased insight regarding themselves, as well as the ways in which this bipolar disorder is influencing their life. If you or someone you know could benefit from such an empowering experience with us, please don’t hesitate to call 508.794.8711 today. Our staff would be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have about our specialized treatment centers.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, a condition also known as manic depression, is characterized by drastic changes in mood that heavily affect one’s capacity to function. Individuals with bipolar disorder can quickly transition between moments of intense activity and impulsivity (mania) to prolonged periods of sadness and sluggishness (depression). Unlike regular fluctuations in emotion, these episodes can last for weeks or even months.
There are two types of bipolar disorder:
- Bipolar I – Bipolar I is the most severe form of bipolar disorder, with manic episodes lasting a minimum of seven days and depressive episodes at least twice as long. Even if the length of time for each episode does not meet that criteria, those who endure episodes so intense they result in hospitalization may still receive this diagnosis.
- Bipolar II – Compared to bipolar I, which is characterized by full-blown manic episodes, bipolar II involves a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes—milder periods where one experiences an elevated mood.
Our compassionate clinical teams here at Northeast Health Services are highly experienced in tending to those living with bipolar disorder, and curating tailored treatment plans that address the individual needs of every client.
Bipolar Disorder: Perception vs. Reality
In pop culture, bipolar disorder is frequently represented but rarely accurately. Persons suffering from this condition are often presented as having erratic and quick-changing emotion with no explanation behind it. This depiction not only oversimplifies the symptoms of a complex illness, but also misrepresents bipolar disorder in an unnecessary negative light that paints the illness merely as mood swings.
Bipolar disorder is a serious, potentially life-threatening mood disorder, much like depression. However, the spread of incorrect information about bipolar adds to the stigma associated with this and other mental health challenges, making it difficult for those living with this condition to receive proper care and treatment. Such misrepresentations are thus dangerous because they can keep people from seeking help when necessary.
Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder can cause a range of symptoms, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows. Depending on the type of episode an individual is experiencing at any given time, their signs and symptoms will vary accordingly.
Symptoms of manic episodes include the following:
- Impulsive or risk-taking behavior
- Increased energy or agitation
- Racing thoughts
- Easily distracted
- Decreased need for sleep
- An exaggerated sense of well-being or confidence
- Feeling abnormally alert, jumpy, or wired
Symptoms of depressive episodes include:
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless
- Suicidal ideation
- Fatigue and loss of energy
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness
- Decreased ability to think or concentrate
- Change in eating or sleeping habits
Individuals who are suffering from bipolar II, where episodes of mania aren’t as intense, may be incorrectly diagnosed with major depression at first.
Bipolar Disorder: Causes
Bipolar disorder is a multifaceted mental health issue, and various components can contribute to an individual’s susceptibility. While the precise causes of bipolar disorder remain unidentified, genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological aspects are probably all involved in some way.
Genetic Causes
Studies have revealed that if you have a parent or sibling who has bipolar disorder, you are more probable to develop it yourself. Although there is no specific gene responsible for bipolar disorder, the condition appears to be passed down through families.
Biological Causes
Examining the underlying differences between those with bipolar disorder and those without is essential in understanding this illness. Research has shown that people who have been diagnosed have unique biological structures within their brains, warranting further exploration into the potential implications.
Environmental Causes
Environmental factors, such as a severe psychological trauma or a prolonged stressful period, can bring about the initial onset of bipolar disorder.
Psychological Causes
Those who struggle with stress or engage in risky actions may be more prone to responding to external forces that can bring about a bipolar episode. Additionally, substance abuse and alcohol consumption are two of the strongest triggers for an individual’s first experience with this disorder.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder Therapy in MA
To effectively reduce the symptoms associated with bipolar disorder, a comprehensive treatment plan is necessary. The following components may be included in such a plan:
- Medication – Medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and sleeping medications can help relieve symptoms of bipolar disorder.
- Therapy – Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of counseling can assist those with bipolar disorder to successfully navigate the extreme highs and lows they experience. Therapy also offers them beneficial tactics that enable them to better manage their illness over time.
- Peer support – Establishing meaningful relationships with those that understand the complexities of bipolar disorder can be invaluable in managing symptoms. Peer support groups provide a protected area for people to converse about their journeys, pose questions and get assistance from peers who have gone through comparable episodes.
Despite the difficulty that bipolar disorder can cause, many individuals with this condition lead fulfilling and enriching lives when supported by an effective treatment plan.
Discover the Benefits of Bipolar Treatment in MA at Northeast Health Services
If you or somebody in your life is experiencing difficulties related to bipolar disorder, help exists. Take advantage of available resources today to commence your journey toward mental health recovery. Contact Northeast Health Services at 508.794.8711 to learn how we can help you or your loved one attain the life you deserve.