Signs & Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is characterized by drastic changes in mood, transitioning between moments of intense activity and impulsivity (mania) to prolonged periods of sadness and sluggishness (depression). These episodes can last for weeks or even months and may not seem to have any “trigger” or cause, and the “highs” and “lows” can be quite extreme compared to typical mood swings. Symptoms of manic episodes include:- 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
- 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
What Bipolar Disorder Is Not
Many media representations of bipolar disorder involve someone rapidly cycling through high-highs and low-lows within a day (or even hours), or having such extreme mania that they’re completely unstable. This is often not the case. For many people with bipolar disorder, low mood can last weeks or even months, and for those with bipolar II, episodes of “mania” may be relatively calm and simply involve mildly elevated mood. As with most mental health conditions, each individual will have unique symptoms and experiences related to their bipolar disorder. With proper medication, these moods can stabilize, and most people who get support for their bipolar disorder are able to function normally within society.Types of Bipolar Disorder
There are two types of bipolar disorder:- Bipolar I: More severe, with manic episodes lasting a minimum of seven days and depressive episodes of at least two weeks. Even if the length of time for each episode does not meet the criteria, those whose episodes are severe enough to result in hospitalization may still receive this diagnosis.
- Bipolar II: Compared to bipolar I, which is characterized by intense manic episodes, bipolar II involves a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes—milder periods of elevated mood. People with bipolar II may be incorrectly diagnosed with major depression at first.
- Cyclothymia: Experiencing periods of elevated and lowered mood, but not quite severe enough to warrant a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
- Rapid cycling bipolar disorder: Involves experiencing four or more manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes within the span of twelve months.
- Bipolar disorder “with mixed features”: A specifier used when someone experiences symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time.
Are you or a loved one dealing with bipolar disorder?
Our mental health experts can help. NEHS offers a full spectrum of bipolar disorder treatments in Boston, Springfield, Worcester, Cambridge, and across Massachusetts. Get started today and find the compassionate care you deserve.
What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
There are multiple factors involved when it comes to developing bipolar disorder. While the precise causes aren’t fully known, genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological aspects all play a part.
The causes and risk factors for developing bipolar disorder include:
- Genetics: Studies show that if you have a parent or sibling who has bipolar disorder, you are more likely to develop it yourself. Although there isn’t one specific gene responsible for bipolar disorder, the condition appears to be passed down through families.
- Biology: People with bipolar disorder often have differences in certain areas of the brain, and in the connections between parts of the brain.
- Environmental factors: Experiencing trauma or a prolonged stressful period can trigger the initial onset of bipolar disorder.
- Behavioral causes: For those who are already at risk genetically, substance use and alcohol consumption are two of the strongest triggers for someone’s first experience with this disorder.
How Is Bipolar Disorder Treated?
Treating the symptoms of bipolar disorder typically involves both medication and therapy, and many people also find it helpful to find a peer group or group therapy with others dealing with similar concerns.
Medication
Medications like mood stabilizers are often prescribed for bipolar disorder to help control manic and hypomanic episodes, and antidepressants may be added to a medication regimen to manage depressive symptoms. Many antipsychotics have also been cleared by the FDA for treating manic and hypomanic symptoms.
Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of counseling can assist those with bipolar disorder to successfully navigate the highs and lows they experience. Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy is often utilized for people with bipolar disorder, focusing on helping people stabilize their daily routines around sleep, diet, and exercise.
Peer Support
Establishing meaningful relationships with those who understand the complexities of bipolar disorder can be invaluable in managing symptoms. Peer support groups provide a space for people to share their journeys, pose questions, and get assistance from others who have gone through comparable episodes.
Note that some of NEHS’s clinics may offer group therapy for people with bipolar disorder, but we do not offer a structured peer program.
What’s the Long-Term Outlook for Someone With Bipolar Disorder?
Symptoms of bipolar disorder typically get worse if they go untreated. Bouts of depression and manic episodes can last longer and become more severe, which could lead to trouble at work or school, substance use, financial issues, and difficulty maintaining relationships. Thankfully, bipolar disorder typically responds well to treatment. In one study, almost 60% of people receiving regular treatment found recovery.
The Benefits of Bipolar Treatment in MA at Northeast Health Services
No matter what you’re facing, our clinics throughout Massachusetts offer comprehensive care for bipolar disorder, including therapists with multiple specialties, large psychiatry teams, and other specialists to provide ongoing support.
Here are just a few of the benefits of seeking treatment for bipolar disorder at Northeast Health Services:
- Our services are in-network with most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, so your out-of-pocket costs could be quite low.
- Our clinics are conveniently located across the state, or you could talk to your provider(s) about telehealth options if you prefer.
- A highly trained therapist can help you learn coping tools and rhythms to help you balance your emotions and maintain a healthy schedule.
- Our team of psychiatry experts can prescribe appropriate medication for bipolar disorder and monitor your symptoms to alter doses as needed.
- Your care team will continue to provide ongoing support as long as necessary, including helping you find community supports, group therapy, and more.
Get Bipolar Disorder Treatment at Northeast Health Services
If you or someone in your life is experiencing difficulty related to bipolar disorder, seeking treatment as soon as possible is paramount to getting symptoms under control. Start with a quick phone call with our intake specialists who can help you determine your insurance coverage and any copays you’ll be responsible for, then schedule your first appointment with a therapist, psychiatric provider, or both.
Contact Northeast Health Services at 508.794.8711 or fill out a quick form to learn how we can help you or your loved one start to feel better.
FAQs About Bipolar Disorder
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What are 5 signs of bipolar disorder?
Here are five potential signs of bipolar disorder, especially mania:
- Feeling euphoric, high energy, and needing little sleep
- Making larger-than-life, unrealistic plans
- Impulsive or risky behavior
- Feeling uniquely powerful or important
- Sudden mood changes, going from delighted to angry in a snap
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Is bipolar disorder hard to live with?
Yes, bipolar disorder can be really hard to live with, especially when it goes untreated. People with untreated bipolar disorder typically have difficulty with romantic relationships, completing work or school tasks, and often end up using substances to cope. However, with medication and therapy many people with bipolar disorder can absolutely lead normal lives and balance out their emotions.
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How do you support someone who is bipolar?
Here are a few ways to support a partner or loved one with bipolar disorder:
- Learn more about bipolar disorder: Understand the symptoms of mania and hypomania so you can make a plan for when their symptoms are heightened
- Listen to understand, not to respond: Avoid minimizing their concerns and offer curiosity, acknowledging their emotions even if you don’t totally understand them
- Encourage and support professional care: If needed, it could be helpful to drive your loved one to psychiatry and therapy appointments, help with scheduling, etc.
- Don’t let them off the hook with behavior that is harming you or them: During a manic episode, someone with bipolar disorder may do something to upset you. It’s important to explain how specific behaviors have hurt you instead of just making general statement.
- Try couples or family therapy: Attending therapy together can help you determine the best tools to support your loved one and yourself
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At what age does bipolar disorder start?
The average age of onset for type I bipolar disorder is between 12 and 24 years old, and it’s slightly older for those with type II. It’s rare for a child under age 12 to get a bipolar disorder diagnosis.