Bipolar is characterized by changes in an individual’s mood, emotions, and energy. This could include intense episodes of depression and/or mania that last days or weeks. Most individuals who experience bipolar begin to develop symptoms during young adulthood, but symptoms do vary. Depending on symptoms, bipolar disorder can be classified into different types, such as bipolar I, bipolar II, or cyclothymic disorder. At Onyx Behavioral Health, we treat individuals diagnosed with any of these types of bipolar diagnoses.
Characterized by long (7 days or more) and/or severe episodes of mania, bipolar I usually also includes depressive episodes lasting 2 or more weeks. In some cases, mania episodes are severe enough to require hospitalization.
Characterized by episodes of depression and hypomania (less severe mania episodes), bipolar II is sometimes misdiagnosed as another mental health condition such as depression.
Characterized by less severe or shorter, but recurrent hypomania and depressive episodes, Cyclothymic disorder can sometimes go undiagnosed for longer periods of time. However, individuals with this condition can benefit greatly from residential treatment programs.
Regardless of which type of bipolar is diagnosed, symptoms can be broken down into depression and mania. Here is what each one looks like:
Like many conditions, getting a diagnosis can sometimes be a process. When symptoms present, it is recommended to start with a visit to your healthcare provider. They will run a number of tests to rule out other possible causes for your symptoms. If there is no physical reason identified to explain your symptoms, a mental health evaluation would be the next step.
In the event of a diagnosis, an individual treatment plan is going to be recommended. Standard treatment may include a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. Mood stabilizers and antidepressants are common medications used, but in some cases, an antipsychotic may be prescribed to manage manic episodes.
Thyroid problems, heart arrhythmia, heavy caffeine use, and substance abuse are also risk factors that can cause or amplify anxiety disorders.
We know that most commonly, the onset of bipolar disorder happens in one’s early 20s. However, what actually causes this condition? Is it something a person is genetically predisposed to or is there something that happens to people in their 20s that causes the onset?
Like all other mental disorders, there is usually a mixture of factors that contribute to bipolar disorder. Yes, if others in your family have bipolar, then you are more likely to develop it as well. Yet, it is not a guarantee. According to Mayo Clinic, risk factors for bipolar include:
In the event of a diagnosis, an individual treatment plan is going to be recommended. Standard treatment may include a combination of behavioral therapy and medication. Mood stabilizers and antidepressants are common medications used, but in some cases, an antipsychotic may be prescribed to manage manic episodes.
Thyroid problems, heart arrhythmia, heavy caffeine use, and substance abuse are also risk factors that can cause or amplify anxiety disorders.
At Onyx Behavioral Health, we take mental health treatment to the next level. While we provide traditional treatment options for conditions such as Bipolar Disorder, we don’t just stop there. True healing sometimes requires big changes that are challenging to make in your current situation. That is why we provide a highly effective residential treatment program that includes a safe space to focus on recovery, develop coping skills, and make lifestyle changes for the long term.
