In 2019, The Mental Illness Policy Organization reported that nearly 2.3 million or 1 percent of Americans suffer from bipolar disorder. So, what is bipolar disorder? It is a mental disorder formerly called manic depression or manic-depressive disorder. Although bipolar disorder is incurable, the good news is that there is hope for managing the disease. The National Advisory Mental Health Council states that there is an 80 percent success rate when bipolar disorder is professionally treated.
What is Bipolar Disorder?
The most common symptom of bipolar disorder is severe mood swings that can be treated with mental health counseling services. These are manic episodes. Psychotic symptoms may also appear, such as delusions, which are false beliefs about something. In addition, hearing, feeling, smelling, and seeing (hallucinating) something that is not there often occurs.
Bipolar disorder symptoms include:
- Extreme mood swings
- Suicidal feelings
- Feeling restless
- Self-blame
- Lack of energy for no reason
Why Bipolar Disorder May Occur
Men and women often experience symptoms between the ages of 15 and 25 that lead them to ask, what is bipolar disorder? There is no distinct cause for this disease, but several factors that may trigger bipolar disorder include:
- Family history: If siblings or parents have the disorder, it is a higher probability, but not certain you will inherit it
- Stress during a difficult event: Divorce, death in the family, chronic illness, or financial issues can contribute to the start of a bipolar disorder episode
- Brain structure differences: Researchers have found small differences in how the brain looks, works, and functions in people with bipolar disorder
- Medicines: Steroids and antidepressants may bring on a bipolar manic or depressive episode
- Sleeplessness: A lack of sleep for long periods or insomnia may result in a bipolar manic or depressive episode
The only way to know if you or someone you know has bipolar disorder is to visit a healthcare provider. The mental health exam will include a review of your family history, past and current symptoms, and a review of your physical & mental health history before you’re officially diagnosed.
Treatment Plans for Bipolar Disorder
Effective treatment for bipolar disorder varies since everyone is different. It is best to receive a medical diagnosis because your degree of bipolar disorder may not be as severe.
Some therapies include:
- Dysfunctional impairment treatment
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating depression
- Group therapy for setting relationship boundaries
- Medication and psychotherapy
Additional self-help steps for those suffering from bipolar disorder include prayer and aerobic exercise.
What is bipolar disorder? It is a treatable mental disorder that affects the brain. Do not let manic and depressive episodes control your life. With the help of a healthcare professional, you can conquer severe mood swings and other bipolar disorder symptoms. Remedy Therapy Behavioral Health wants you to succeed in life and in every endeavor you choose. Don’t let bipolar disorder to steal any more of your precious time. Contact us at (561) 933-6700 or fill out our convenient form online today.
