Bipolar disorder, formerly termed manic-depressive illness, is a mental health disorder characterized by dramatic fluctuations in mood, functioning, levels of energy and activity, and behavior. Such fluctuations can form a considerable barrier in which the mentally afflicted person is unable to perform normally or carry out regular everyday activities.
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mood disorder that involves episodes of mood swings that can last for hours, days, weeks, or even months. These can range from manic episodes, which are characterized by “very high,” thrilled, or grumpy behavior, to “very down,” hopeless, despondent, or impassive behavior, also called depressive episodes. The term hypomanic episodes refers to those mild manic episodes. Despite this, some patients have a long period of emotional stability between mood shifts.
3 main diagnoses of bipolar disorder:
When someone is diagnosed with bipolar I disorder, it implies that there is presence of manic episodes which last for several days to one week and the patient may be in a depressive or non-depressive state. In other instances, a patient shows mania, a pathological state at which various behavioral symptoms are evident, including excessive irritability and rapid cycling of thoughts, feelings, and energy. The individual can manifest as being very talkative and overstimulated by physical and mental activities.
A bipolar II disorder patient experiences at least one major depressive episode and one hypomanic episode. Patients with this type of bipolar disorder usually return to their typical functioning self between episodes. Regrettably, such type is frequently compounded with other mental health disorders such as anxiety disorder and substance use disorder.
The next one is cyclothymic disorder, also referred to as cyclothymia. In this category, individuals exhibit unstable and constant mood state. They, however, undergo cyclical hypomanic and depressive symptoms for two years, yet the symptoms presented do not meet the threshold for hypomanic or depressive episodes.
In case you think that you are suffering from periods of mania and depression, then it is essential that you consult with a mental health expert and undergo a proper evaluation of your health condition. Arbor Wellness in Las Vegas, Nevada, is dedicated to being your partner at every stage of your journey towards better health.
Don’t let it define you.
Just like with any other illness—whether mental disorder or physical disability—remember you are more than your debilitating condition.
If you are diagnosed as bipolar, living a better life is still possible. Getting help would be the very first step towards coping and managing your symptoms. Along with psychotherapy and medication, knowing and understanding yourself better can empower you, thus helping you keep your symptoms under control and allowing you to promptly spring back from mood episodes.
Bipolar disorder can also be managed with the following suggested approaches:
Engage in physical activity. Design a daily schedule that incorporates calorie-burning activities such as running, dancing, aerobics or any other form of activity that makes you move.
Avoid the use of illegal substances and alcohol, as these can exacerbate your condition.
Eat a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep. Having a balanced and healthy diet will help you feel better and think clearly; the same is true for getting enough sleep. Interrupted sleep can negatively impact mood.
Set aside some leisure time. Doing interesting, engaging activities, whether for self-care or with family or friends, is favorable to emotional and mental health.
Stick to daily schedules. Sticking to routines and following a day-to-day schedule is a big help to persons diagnosed with bipolar disorder, as this helps stabilize mood shifts.
Medication should be taken exactly as prescribed. Avoid skipping or neglecting to take medication, as doing so may lead to withdrawal effects or can worsen the symptoms.
Bipolar disorder, whilst not curable and a prevalent ailment, is treatable. Yes – – realizing you have this mental health problem is difficult. To say that it’s as if heaven and earth conspired against you would be an understatement. But discover the courage within yourself. Strengthen your resolve and learn to accept yourself, and never stop working toward your bright, joyful future.
If you would like to talk about what you’re going through with your life, Arbor Wellness Nevada in Las Vegas has a roster of licensed and competent mental health professionals who are ready to assist you. Achieve peace of mind. Conquer your fear. Take the first step and give us a call.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/living-with-bipolar-disorder
https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/bipolar-disorder/living-with-bipolar-disorder
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9294-bipolar-disorder
https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/bipolar-disorders/what-are-bipolar-disorders
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/bipolar-disorder
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bipolar-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355955
