Living with bipolar disorder can be extremely challenging for those who don’t receive the right treatment and support. The intense emotional highs and lows can disrupt a person’s daily life, interfering with relationships and jobs. Learning how to manage bipolar disorder can help improve emotional regulation and allow individuals experiencing bipolar disorder to live calmer, more balanced lives.
If the symptoms of bipolar disorder are making your life difficult, you can find relief by calling My 5 Palms at 1.844.675.1022. Our bipolar disorder treatment program will provide you with a customized plan consisting of medication, therapy, and support for healthy lifestyle changes. Reach out today to learn more.
What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that used to be referred to as manic depression. This name stems from the fluctuation between manic and depressive episodes. However, as more research has been done over the years, it has been realized that the condition is not so clean-cut, and there are varying degrees of symptoms.
Some people with bipolar disorder may not have depressive episodes and struggle only with manic episodes. Others may have symptoms that are milder than the classic definition of bipolar disorder. And still, there are others who do not fall into either bipolar I or II classifications.
Here is an overview of the different types of bipolar disorder:
Bipolar I Disorder
A person with bipolar I disorder experiences one or more manic episodes lasting at least seven days. They might also experience depressive episodes that last two weeks or more. However, a person can be classified as having bipolar I disorder without having depressive episodes.
Bipolar II Disorder
Bipolar II disorder is different from bipolar I in that a person must have one or more major depressive episodes and at least one hypomanic episode to be diagnosed with this condition. Hypomania is a milder form of mania.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is similar to bipolar II disorder, with the distinction of lasting two years or more. While it may not be as severe as bipolar I or II, it can still significantly impact a person’s life.
Unspecified Bipolar Disorder
If a person experiences manic, hypomanic, or depressive episodes that do not fall under the definition of bipolar I, bipolar II, or cyclothymic disorder, they may be considered to have an unspecified bipolar disorder.
What Is It Like Living with Bipolar Disorder?
To understand what it is like living with bipolar disorder, you need to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of manic and depressive episodes. If a person is in the midst of a manic episode, they might exhibit heightened energy levels and a variety of other intense feelings and behaviors like:
- Feel energetic – An overwhelming sense of vitality, often leading to taking on a number of tasks simultaneously
- Have racing thoughts – A mind that’s filled with rapid-fire ideas, making it difficult to focus
- Be more impulsive – higher likelihood of hasty decisions without considering consequences
- Feel euphoric – A heightened sense of happiness and an unrealistic perception of one’s abilities
- Feel less of a need for sleep – Individuals may be able to go days with very little sleep and without feeling tired
- Engage in risky behaviors – Excessive spending, gambling, reckless driving, or substance misuse are examples
- Demonstrate poor judgment – Decisions that lead to negative and sometimes dangerous outcomes
For some, this can be a very productive period, as they seem to have endless energy, motivation, and ideas. However, impulsivity and a tendency toward riskier behaviors can result in adverse consequences, such as going on shopping sprees, gambling, using drugs or alcohol excessively, or driving recklessly.
On the other hand, depressive episodes may include:
- Feeling hopeless – A pervasive feeling that makes it difficult to see positivity
- Having low energy – Drained of energy and difficulty mustering energy for everyday activities
- Feeling lethargic – Physical and mental sluggishness
- Feeling sad – Persistent sadness is a hallmark of a depressive episode
- Having difficulty focusing – Concentration becomes challenging, affecting job or school performance
- Not enjoying the usual activities – Hobbies or things that brought joy hold little to no interest
- Having suicidal thoughts – The most alarming of the symptoms and requires immediate attention
Depressive episodes can be especially concerning if a person is dealing with suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm.
Managing Bipolar Disorder
Managing bipolar disorder involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
The first step to finding relief from your symptoms is to seek professional help. A healthcare provider can prescribe the appropriate medication for your situation.
Therapy is also an important component of managing bipolar disorder because you will learn how to improve emotional regulation by implementing stress-reduction techniques, learning healthy communication skills, and practicing self-care.
Call My 5 Palms to Enroll in Bipolar Disorder Treatment
Left untreated, bipolar disorder can wreak havoc on your life. By enrolling in bipolar disorder treatment at My 5 Palms, you can find a sense of control and learn how to enjoy a more fulfilling lifestyle. Submit our online contact form or reach out at 1.844.675.1022 to schedule an intake assessment and start receiving the right treatment for your needs.
