Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder consists of two primary phases: manic (or hypomanic) episodes and depressive episodes. The severity, frequency, and duration of these episodes vary among individuals, but recognizing the symptoms can be the first step toward getting help.

Manic vs. Hypomanic Episodes: What’s the Difference?

Both manic and hypomanic episodes involve heightened mood, increased energy, and unusual behavior. The key difference between the two is the severity and how these symptoms affect the individual’s daily life.

A manic episode lasts at least one week and causes significant impairment in social, occupational, or daily functioning. Individuals in a manic state may engage in risky behaviors, have delusions of grandeur, and even require hospitalization in severe cases. Their judgment can be severely impaired, leading to consequences that impact relationships, finances, and personal safety.

A hypomanic episode, by contrast, lasts for at least four consecutive days and has similar symptoms but to a lesser degree. While individuals may still feel euphoric, more energetic, or overly confident, they are generally able to continue their daily responsibilities without major disruption. However, hypomanic episodes can escalate into full manic episodes or transition into depression, making early recognition crucial.

Symptoms of a Manic or Hypomanic Episode

During a manic or hypomanic episode, individuals with bipolar disorder may experience a surge in energy and activity levels, often leading to noticeable behavioral changes. These episodes can be exhilarating or overwhelming, depending on their intensity. Symptoms include:

• Elevated mood – Feeling excessively happy, euphoric, or irritable, sometimes to the point of making unrealistic plans or setting unattainable goals.
• Increased energy and restlessness – Feeling highly energized and needing little to no sleep, yet not feeling tired.
• Rapid speech – Speaking quickly and jumping from one topic to another without pausing. Individuals may feel an uncontrollable urge to keep speaking, sometimes making it difficult for others to follow.
• Racing thoughts – Experiencing a flood of ideas at once, making it difficult to focus or organize thoughts, often leading to unfinished projects.
• Impulsivity – Engaging in risky behaviors, such as excessive spending, reckless driving, or making impulsive decisions without considering the consequences.
• Grandiosity – Displaying an inflated sense of self-worth, believing they have extraordinary talents or abilities, or feeling invincible, which can lead to reckless actions.

Manic episodes are more severe and can lead to hospitalization, while hypomanic episodes are less intense but still impact daily life.

Symptoms of a Depressive Episode

During a depressive episode, individuals with bipolar disorder may experience a profound and persistent sense of sadness, often feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed. These depressive episodes can last for weeks or even months, and affect every aspect of life, from work and relationships to personal interests and self-care. Symptoms include:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness: Feel down, empty, or hopeless for most of the day, nearly every day. These individuals have difficulty finding joy or motivation.
• Loss of interest: No longer enjoying activities that were once pleasurable, such as hobbies, socializing, or work. This leads to isolation and disconnection from loved ones.
• Fatigue or lack of energy: Feeling physically or mentally drained, which makes even simple tasks feel overwhelming. This sometimes results in reduced productivity or withdrawal from responsibilities.
• Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, waking up too early, or excessive sleeping. This makes it difficult to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, which can worsen fatigue and emotional distress.
• Changes in appetite or weight: Significant weight gain or loss due to increased or decreased appetite. This sometimes leads to concerns about physical health and self-esteem.
• Difficulty concentrating: Struggling with focus, memory, or decision-making. This can impact work, school, or personal responsibilities, sometimes causing frustration or a sense of failure.
• Suicidal thoughts: Experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, which require immediate professional help and intervention. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it is essential to seek help from a mental health professional or crisis hotline.

Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed, as symptoms can overlap with other conditions such as  depression, anxiety disorders, or ADHD, making a professional evaluation

Seeking Help for Bipolar Disorder

If you or a loved one is experiencing the symptoms of bipolar disorder, know that you are not alone. Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, but with the right support, you can learn to manage your symptoms and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.

At Hickory Behavioral Health Center, we understand the complexities of bipolar disorder and are committed to providing compassionate support and personalized care. We are dedicated to ensuring that every individual has access to the best possible support and treatment. Our multidisciplinary team of medical doctors, psychologists, therapists, and clinicians provides expert care for each patient.