How to Know if You or a Loved One Has Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder that is characterized by cycles of “low” and “high” mood. These are also called depression and mania stages. Changes between the cycles can happen rapidly and cause impairment in functioning depending on the severity of the symptoms. There are two main types of Bipolar Disorder.
Bipolar I: Severe manic episodes that usually need to be taken to the hospital that last for about 7 days, followed by depressive episodes that last for about 2 weeks.
Bipolar II: Hypomanic episodes, which are less severe manic stages, followed by the depressive stage.
There are Two Types of Symptoms – Manic and Depressive
Manic “high mood”: feeling of invincibility, even if unsafe or illegal, never feeling tired, feeling irritable or angry most of the time, living and spending money recklessly, increase sexual activity, experiencing hallucinations and delusions
Depressive “low mood”: refusing to leave bed for days, sleeping more than usual and always being tired, uncontrollable crying, loss in interest in previously pleasurable things, neglecting daily responsibilities, feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, unable to make decisions, and thoughts of suicide
How American Behavioral Clinics Can Help?
American Behavioral Clinics offers many services that are beneficial to individuals with Bipolar Disorder. ABC has a variety of psychiatrists and psychologists that work with patients to find the best path of treatment. The services available include medication management, individual, family, and group therapy.
MEDICATIONS:
Mood Stabilizers – delay and relieve episodes of depression and mania
Antidepressants – work with mood stabilizers to help slow depression
Antipsychotics – helps treat mania and severe cases of mania/depression
THERAPY:
Psychotherapy – can help make sense of their thoughts and feelings. Therapy offers valuable advice and support, regain their confidence, and reduce any strain they may have.
It has been shown that these treatment options can lead to increased mood stability, overall improved functioning, and fewer hospitalizations.
