Mental health is something that should not be taken lightly. According to the World Health Organization, “mental disorders are among the leading causes of ill-health and disability worldwide.” Yet, so many people suffer from these conditions in silence because of the stigma attached to them. In this blog post, we will be discussing bipolar disorder and how to create awareness around it while also reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that affects approximately five million adults in the United States. This means that roughly two percent of the population lives with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder can cause extreme mood swings from mania (an abnormally elevated mood) to depression (a state of feeling sad and hopeless). Some of the symptoms of bipolar disorder include: feeling extremely happy or irritable for no reason, having a lot of energy, being more active than usual, talking very fast, being easily distracted, and sleeping less than usual.

Although bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness, it can be treated with medication and therapy. In addition, some lifestyle changes can help people who live with this condition. For example, exercising regularly may reduce symptoms of mania or depression. In addition to exercise, getting enough sleep and eating healthy meals at regular intervals throughout the day is important for maintaining a stable mood.

The different types of bipolar disorder

The most common types of developmental disabilities are:

Bipolar I Disorder – This is a type of bipolar disorder where the person experiences extreme highs and lows in mood. They may also have delusions or hallucinations (believing things that are not true).

Bipolar II Disorder– People with this type of bipolar disorder will experience less severe episodes than those who suffer from Bipolar I, but they will still go through mood swings. These episodes may also last longer than one week at a time and can include depression and mania or hypomania (a milder form of mania).

Cyclothymic Disorder – This is when someone has had many periods of both low and elevated moods that do not meet the criteria for mania or depression. These mood swings usually last for at least two years.

Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar Disorders – This is when a person has symptoms of bipolar disorder, but their symptoms do not fit into any specific category. They may have some signs of bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, cyclothymic disorder, or they may experience mixed episodes (when the person experiences both manic and depressive symptoms at once).

The causes of bipolar disorder are not fully understood, but there appears to be a genetic component. Other factors contributing to this condition include stress from work or relationships, alcohol or drug abuse, sleep problems such as insomnia, and head injuries.

Symptoms of bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a condition that can affect anyone at any time. However, it is important to remember that help is available for those who suffer from this condition.

There are many different types of bipolar disorder, but the symptoms can be generally classified into two categories: mania and depression.

Mania is a state of elevated mood that is often accompanied by abnormal thoughts and behavior. Some common symptoms of mania include feeling extremely happy or irritable for no reason, having a lot of energy, being more active than usual, talking very fast, being easily distracted, and sleeping less than usual. Mania can lead to dangerous behaviors such as reckless spending, sexual promiscuity, and drug or alcohol abuse.

Depression is a state of feeling sad and hopeless. Some common symptoms of depression include feeling low in energy, having no interest in activities that used to be enjoyable, changes in appetite (either eating more or less than usual), sleeping too much or not enough, feeling hopeless and worthless, and thoughts of suicide. Depression can also lead to self-harm behaviors such as cutting or overdosing on drugs or alcohol.

Issues that come with bipolar disorder and mental health

One of the key goals in treating people with bipolar disorder is ensuring they have a stable sleep schedule. Poor or erratic sleeping habits can contribute significantly to mood swings, so establishing regular bedtime and wake-up times is important. It may also be helpful to avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, as these can disrupt sleep.

People with bipolar disorder often have difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. This is partly because their mood swings can be unpredictable and make it challenging to maintain stable social lives. However, by getting treatment for their condition and learning how to manage their mood swings, people with bipolar disorder can often improve their relationships and feel less alone.

Myths and facts about bipolar disorder

There are many misconceptions about bipolar disorder that need to be debunked. This mental illness is often misunderstood, and people with bipolar disorder are often stigmatized. It’s important to remember that bipolar disorder is a real and serious condition that requires professional help to manage. However, with the right treatment, people with bipolar disorder can lead happy and productive lives.

Myth: Bipolar disorder is a rare condition.

Fact: Bipolar disorder is not as rare as people think. In fact, it affects about one in every fifty people.

Myth: Mania is always good, and depression is always bad.

Fact: Mania can be fun and productive, but it also comes with significant risks.

Myth: People with bipolar disorder are just having an emotional crisis because of something that happened in their lives recently.

Fact: This could not be further from the truth. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition that requires professional help to manage.

Myth: There is no cure for bipolar disorder, and it’s incurable.

Fact: Bipolar disorder can be treated with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes to ensure stability in mood swings. It’s not easy, but it can be done if you seek professional help.

Myth: Bipolar disorder is caused by stress or trauma in childhood.

Fact: The causes of bipolar disorder are not well understood, but it’s believed that genetics play a role along with other factors such as environment and lifestyle habits (e.g., alcohol use). It’s important to note that people who experience stressful or traumatic events in childhood are not guaranteed to develop bipolar disorder.

Myth: People with bipolar disorder can’t hold down a job or have successful relationships.

Fact: With the proper treatment and support, people with bipolar disorder can lead happy and productive lives.

Treatment options for bipolar disorder and mental health

The most common treatment for bipolar disorder is medication. Various types of drugs may be used to treat this condition, including mood stabilizers (such as lithium), antipsychotics, antidepressants, and other medications for anxiety disorders or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Psychotherapy can also help people with bipolar disorder by teaching them how to recognize and cope with triggers for their mood swings, including stress or sleep problems.

Different types of therapy can be used in combination with medication, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), or family-focused treatment (FFT). However, it is important to note that medication is the most effective treatment for bipolar disorder and should not be stopped without consulting a physician first.

If you or someone you love are experiencing the symptoms of bipolar or need help managing your symptoms, contact Serene Health. We offer a wide variety of behavioral health and mental health services and have flexible appointment scheduling available from our Telehealth platform so you can speak to a therapist from the comfort of your own home. Call us at 844-737-3638 or visit www.serenehealth.com to book an appointment.