Defining Bipolar Disorders
When a person suffers from brain disorders, it can cause their mood to change sporadically, which is an indication of bipolar disorder. There are three different bipolar disorder conditions: bipolar I, bipolar II and cyclothymic disorder.
People with bipolar disorder can experience extreme emotional states, or mood episodes, that take place at distinct times. There are three major types of mood episodes: manic, hypomanic, and depressive.
Being aware of the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder will help individuals assist their loved ones with treatment so they can continue to live full, productive, and satisfying lives.
Symptoms of Bipolar I Disorder
When individuals are in the middle of experiencing a manic episode, they may feel invincible and unstoppable or irritable and revved up. If they experience a depressive episode, they will feel a deep sadness and hopelessness. All of these are symptoms of bipolar disorder I, especially if individuals experience normal moods before and after these episodes.
Hypomanic episodes are also symptoms of bipolar I disorder, but they’re less severe than manic episodes. Hypomanic episodes only last about four days in a row, and the individual is still able to function normally and live their life.
Lastly, individuals with bipolar disorder I can also experience depressive episodes, which can last up to two weeks at a time. During these episodes, individuals are likely to experience deep sadness, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, irregular sleep patterns, loss of energy, an increase or decrease in appetite, and possibly thoughts of suicide or death.
Bipolar disorder I can negatively impact an individual’s life and their relationships with family, friends, and coworkers. People suffering from bipolar disorder I may also suffer from ADHD, anxiety disorder, or substance abuse disorder. It’s not uncommon for individuals to turn to alcohol and/or drugs during their depressive episodes in order to cope with their discomfort.
Symptoms of Bipolar II Disorder
When individuals experience at least one severe depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, they are often diagnosed with bipolar II disorder. Between episodes, individuals return to their usual moods and are able to function properly. However, during these episodes, individuals are still likely to turn to substance abuse as a means to cope.
Symptoms of Cyclothymic Disorder
People experiencing cyclothymic disorder often suffer from milder mood swings that occur consistently over a period of two years. They will also experience hypomania and depressive symptoms, but they are less severe than those of bipolar I and II.
Treatment Options of Bipolar Disorder
Fortunately, there are treatment options available for those suffering from any of the bipolar disorders mentioned above. Individuals will have to seek council from a psychiatrist who will prescribe certain medication as part of their treatment plan. Aside from taking medication, individuals will also have therapy sessions to help them work through these episodes and rebuild their relationships.
Families also have the option of enrolling their loved one in an alternative treatment center if they’re also suffering from substance abuse disorder or alcoholism.
Alternative Treatment Center in Tennessee
At Discovery Place, we offer alternative treatment options for those suffering from substance abuse disorder. Our alternative treatment center offers different programs to assist patients with their recovery journeys. Our programs include a 30-Day Alternative Residential Addiction Recovery Program and a Long-Term Alternative Addiction Recovery Program. If you would like more information, call us today to set up a free consultation at (800) 725-0922.
