What Does it Mean to Be Bipolar?
There are those that experience an unusual shift in mood such as one minute everything feels fine to next minute feeling lousy. Experiencing these behaviors can mean you have bipolar disorder. Going into treatment and taking your medication will help even out your moods so that you can live life in content.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder where you go through unusual moods. Some moods can be very happy and energetic while others can bring you down. There could be changes in your sleep, not being able to think clearly, and a change in energy levels.
What causes bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder can be passed down in families. Another cause can be environmental factors like a tragic event. It can also be a difference in brain development, structure, and neurotransmitters that are messengers between nerve cells.
What is the difference between manic, hypomanic, and depressive?
Manic episodes are when you feel upbeat or jumpy, are more active, talk fast about different things, have your thoughts racing, do a lot of activities at once, or do risky things. Hypomanic episodes are similar to manic episodes except they can be shorter and less severe. Depressive episodes are when you feel down, cannot enjoy anything, being forgetful, feeling tired, or think of death or suicide.
Are there different kinds of bipolar disorders?
Yes. Bipolar I is where you have at least one episode of mania. Bipolar II is having at least one depressive and one hypomanic episode. Cyclothymic Disorder is when you deal with hypomanic and depressive episodes on a regular basis. Rapid Cycling is having four or more episodes of hypomania, depression, or mania within twelve months. A mixed episode is when you experience both depression and mania or hypomania at the same time.
How is Bipolar Disorder treated?
There are many different types of medications to control symptoms. You may need to try a variety of medications before you know which one works for you. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing severe side effects before stopping. Common medications include lithium, mood stabilizers, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants. There is also different types of therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, family therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to change behaviors, strengthen relationships, and better manage their lives.
What kind of lifestyle changes do I need to make when I have Bipolar Disorder?
It is important to continue taking your medication and going to therapy to better manage having Bipolar Disorder. You should also make sure to stick with a regular sleeping schedule, exercise regularly, drink more water instead of alcohol or coffee, and even mindfulness techniques to connect with your spirituality.
